Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith continues to work his way back from a neck disc injury, but things are pointing up for his return.
Smith started baseball activities over the last couple of days, Dave Roberts shared, doing some weight lifting, throwing, and even hitting as well.
“He’s going to start his hitting progression today. My assumption is the cage and take some swings, but that is a good thing for Will,” Roberts said before Friday’s game against the Red Sox.
On Saturday, Roberts added more momentum to a possible Will Smith return coming before the end of the regular season.
He called the progress “good,” while noting they are taking things day by day rather than committing to a specific timeframe.
“We feel really good about it. And the main thing is that he’s pain-free. So if he keeps being pain-free, he’s in the weight room, so he is building some strength, and now he’s kind of being more active, so all signs are good,” Roberts said.
“Will is anxious to get back out there, but there still has to be a progression and games play. So I just don;t see before three or would weeks.”
The skipper added that he is “very, very, very confident” that Smith comes back this season.
How was Will Smith playing before his injury?
In 52 games, Smith was hitting .249/.338/.382 with six home runs, league-average run creation at a 102 wRC+, but worth 1.0 fWAR.
As a defensive catcher, Smit has really made strides over his career, building good chemistry with the pitching staff and improving his ability to manage baserunners.
His bat hasn’t really gotten a chance to get going in 2026 thus far, especially when compared to his sensational 2025.
However, the Dodgers have an emerging hitter in Dalton Rushing, who has brought slugging and offense where Smith has lacked.
The Dodgers have given Rushing a long leash to learn and develop thanks to Smith’s injury, which could pay dividends come playoff time and certainly for the future.
Meanwhile, Smith is not going anywhere — he will be a key member of this team as a playoff riser who is clutch and a respected presence behind the dish.
