The Los Angeles Dodgers are dealing with another injury. This time, it’s catcher Will Smith. The All-Star catcher has been dealing with a neck issue that has sidelined him for the last two series. Manager Dave Roberts said that Smith will “most likely” go on the Injured List, according to Jack Harris of The California Post. The official move won’t be made until tomorrow, as Los Angeles is still deciding who to promote from the minors.
Dodgers All-Star Catcher Seems Headed to the IL
Dave Roberts said it’s “most likely” Will Smith will go on the IL — though that move probably won’t officially come until tomorrow.
He said Smith is “progressing,” but has missed enough time by now that he’ll need a little bit of a ramp-up period before playing again anyway https://t.co/IC8kXIBVyK
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) June 10, 2026
Forced from The 40-man Roster
In anticipation of the move to come, the Dodgers released journeyman infielder Tyler Fitzgerald to make room on the 40-man roster for whoever the Dodgers choose to call up. Ironically, Fitzgerald was just recognized by the Pacific Coast League for his outstanding play until he was forced to the Injured List himself. Not normally known for his bat, the utility man had a .280 batting average with an OPS of .998. It looks like letting Fitzgerald go was one of necessity and a numbers crunch, rather than performance.
Filling In
As for Will Smith, the stiff neck he experienced was considered temporary and not a long-term concern. The backstop is currently hitting for a .249 average with six home runs and 23 runs batted in. This line is slightly down from his career average. However, it’s hard to tell if the dip in production at the plate is due to the injury or a mechanical flaw. Whatever the case, Dave Roberts said Smith is improving but will still need time to “ramp up” before he returns to the lineup. Chuckie Robinson or Eliezer Alfonso may be called up soon to back up Dalton Rushing. Robinson caught nine innings today for Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Piling Up
Will Smith is the latest in a recent rash of injuries for Los Angeles. Teoscar will miss a month with a strained left hamstring. Super utility man Enrique Hernandez will be sidelined longer with a torn oblique. Not to mention, right-handed pitcher Tyler Glasnow is still out with an ailing back.
It looks like the Dodgers have had their depth tested early and often this year, as they look for the next man up.
Main Photo Credits: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
