A sudden stiff neck has sidelined Dodgers All-Star catcher Will Smith for the second straight game, raising serious concerns in Los Angeles and forcing the team to consider a move to the injured list.
While Smith’s absence could have been a major blow, backup catcher Dalton Rushing has stepped up in a massive way, delivering one of the strongest performances by a backup backstop in recent memory and giving the Dodgers unexpected stability behind the plate.
Roberts Hints IL Becoming “More a Possibility”
The Dodgers scratched Will Smith from Saturday’s lineup against the Angels due to neck stiffness that “came out of nowhere,” according to manager Dave Roberts.
Smith participated in some baseball activities on Monday — swinging and doing light catch work — but Roberts acknowledged that the situation is evolving. He noted that placing Smith on the injured list is becoming “more a possibility” as the team monitors his progress. Another day of work is likely needed before he can return, meaning he could miss additional time.
This development is concerning for a Dodgers team that relies heavily on Smith’s leadership, offensive production, and defensive skills. At 26 years old, Smith has been a cornerstone of the lineup, but his current .249/.338/.382 slash line with six homers and 23 RBIs is below his usual elite standards.
Dalton Rushing Seizing the Opportunity
While Smith’s neck issue is a setback, Dalton Rushing has emerged as a bright spot.
The former top prospect has been outstanding as the backup, posting a strong .927 OPS with eight home runs and 21 RBIs through the season. He went 4-for-4 with a homer, a double, and two singles while driving in three runs in Sunday’s loss to the Angels — a performance that turned heads and showed he can handle the big-league load when called upon.
Rushing’s hot start (seven homers and an OPS over 1.000 through April) cooled slightly in May, but he has still been a reliable contributor. His ability to step in and produce gives the Dodgers valuable flexibility as they navigate Smith’s recovery.
The Dodgers’ Catcher Depth Tested
The Dodgers have options behind the plate, but Smith’s absence highlights how important his everyday presence is.
Roberts has been patient, noting that Smith was already scheduled for limited playing time in the Angels series. However, the neck stiffness has complicated things. If Smith does land on the IL, Rushing will likely continue getting regular reps, with the team possibly looking for additional depth if the issue lingers.
This situation also puts pressure on the Dodgers’ medical and training staff to get Smith healthy quickly. Neck issues can be tricky, and the team will be cautious to avoid a longer-term problem.
What’s Next for Smith and the Dodgers
Roberts remains hopeful Smith can return soon, but the organization is preparing for all scenarios.
Smith is expected to continue progressing with baseball activities, but the Dodgers will monitor him closely over the next few days. If the stiffness persists, a short IL stint could be the safest route to ensure he’s 100% for the stretch run.
For now, the Dodgers will lean on Rushing’s hot bat and continue winning games as they push through a competitive NL West race. Smith’s return, whenever it happens, will be a welcome boost to a lineup that has been rolling but could use its everyday catcher back in the mix.