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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JULY 30: Manager Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers observes before the game against the Seattle Mariners at Dodger Stadium on July 30, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are eagerly anticipating the return of Will Smith. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts informed the media, including Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, that Smith is expected to return in approximately three to four weeks.
This projection suggests a mid-to-late August comeback for Smith, which could complicate the lineup as the team navigates roster adjustments following the trade deadline.
At 31, Smith has been on the injured list since June 6 due to a neck issue. This lingering injury has strained the Dodgers’ catching depth. Currently, the team is depending on Dalton Rushing and Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. behind the plate.
Despite Smith’s absence, the Dodgers maintain the best record in baseball at 69-41, slightly ahead of the Milwaukee Brewers. Los Angeles aims to secure the National League’s top seed for home-field advantage throughout the postseason.
Smith’s injury is unlikely to impact the Dodgers’ strategies at the trade deadline. The team is more likely to focus on improving their pitching, as there are minimal additions needed for their strong lineup. Smith’s eventual return will fulfill that requirement.
Dodgers Eagerly Await Will Smith’s Comeback
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 20: Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers observes the ball as he hits a 2-run home run during the 3rd inning of Game Six of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
The exact timeline for Will Smith’s return remains uncertain until he progresses to a rehabilitation assignment. Based on Roberts’ remarks, that decision appears to be weeks away.
In addition to being their primary catcher, Smith is a significant offensive asset. Before his injury, he was hitting .249/.338/.382 with eight home runs and a 105 wRC+ at the plate.
A closer look at his underlying stats reveals that Smith has been performing at an All-Star caliber level. Statcast’s expected metrics show a .275 xBA, .494 xSLG, and a .386 xwOBA.
As the Dodgers aim for a three-peat, having Smith’s bat in the lineup is essential. He is a proven postseason player with an OPS exceeding .800 in both the Championship Series and World Series in 2025.
Dalton Rushing Has Stepped Up in Will Smith’s Absence
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 22: Dalton Rushing #68 of the Los Angeles Dodgers rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning at Citizens Bank Park on July 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Caean Couto/Getty Images)
The Dodgers have managed to remain competitive at the catcher position largely due to Dalton Rushing’s contributions. In his first extended time in the big leagues, the 25-year-old has performed admirably. This season, Rushing is hitting .257/.339/.481 with 12 home runs and a 126 wRC+.
When healthy, the Dodgers boast one of the best catcher tandems in Will Smith and Dalton Rushing. One silver lining of Smith’s injury is that it has given Rushing the opportunity to strengthen his rapport with the pitching staff.
Having both Smith and Rushing available as potential starting catchers grants the Dodgers an advantage as they head into the final stretch and postseason. The team recognizes that an injury to either player won’t derail their season, as the other is ready to rise to the occasion.
Michael McDermott Michael McDermott covers MLB for Heavy Sports. He has previously contributed to SB Nation, Sports Illustrated, and FanSided over 11 seasons. He reported on the Arizona Diamondbacks as an on-site reporter for the 2022-2024 seasons and covered the Arizona Fall League from 2022-2025. Learn more about Michael McDermott
