While there have been some bumps in the road, the Los Angeles Dodgers are off to a great start in the 2026 MLB season. They lead the National League West at 42-24, seven and a half games ahead of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
This season has had a few unexpected developments, such as Kyle Tucker’s struggle at the plate, Andy Pages’ emergence, or Justin Wrobleski’s dominance on the mound.
Something that might have felt unexpected for the club during their championship window this decade is star catcher Will Smith sharing playing time with someone else. This season, Smith has had to share duties with former top prospect Dalton Rushing.
During this past weekend’s series against the crosstown Los Angeles Angels, the 31-year-old Smith played Friday, going 0-for-3 with a walk. He did not play in Saturday and Sunday’s games due to a neck issue.
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The backstop was supposed to be in there on Saturday but was scratched from the lineup hours before the game. Rushing got the start in his stead.
Facing Angels ace Jose Soriano on Sunday, Smith was once again held out of the starting lineup. His absence started to drum up some noise.
The Dodgers dropped Sunday’s game 13-5. After the game, manager Dave Roberts commented on Smith’s situation. “Dave Roberts didn’t commit to Will Smith being back in the lineup Tuesday. Travel is obviously a factor. But Roberts said Smith got a scan on his neck and they don’t believe it’s anything serious,” reported Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.
Travel could be the reason, but with the off day Monday fans are concerned Smith might be out longer than anticipated.
The longtime Los Angeles catcher has been having a bit of a down season to this point. In 52 games, he is batting .249 with a .338 on-base percentage and a .720 OPS. He’s added six home runs and 23 RBIs.
Rushing will be handling the majority of the catching during Smith’s absence. He has proved more than capable in 35 games this year. The 25-year-old has OPS of .927 and eight home runs in just 113 plate appearances.
The Dodgers head to Pittsburgh for a midweek series against the Pirates, then to Chicago for an interleague series against the White Sox over the weekend. It’s possible Smith could be due for a return then.
