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Dodgers consider trading for catcher amid Will Smith injury concerns

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 18, 2026, 3:21 PM

Last updated Jul 18, 2026

Dodgers consider trading for catcher amid Will Smith injury concerns

Summary

Will Smith could miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to an inflamed disk in his neck. Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated uncertainty over Smith's return, which makes it crucial for the team to prepare for the postseason without him. With the MLB trade deadline approaching on August 3, the Dodgers are evaluating options, including former player Ben Rortvedt, currently with the Mets' Triple-A affiliate. Rortvedt's familiarity with Dodgers pitchers could benefit the team if they need to rely on him during the postseason. The situation is compounded by reliance on Dalton Rushing as the primary catcher in Smith's absence.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Will Smith has missed five weeks with a neck injury.
•Dodgers rely on Dalton Rushing as primary catcher.
•Ben Rortvedt is a trade target before the deadline.
•Trade deadline is August 3; decision on Smith's status pending.

Latest Updates

3:21 PMYahoo Sports — Dodgers Could Reunite With World Series Champion Catcher Amid Will Smith Injury Concerns

What they're saying

"
There is a chance Will Smith could miss the remainder of the 2026 season with an inflamed disk in his neck. If that is the case, the Los Angeles Dodgers need to be prepared to take on the postseason without the three-time World Series champion catcher. Smith has missed five weeks with the neck injury […] The post Dodgers Could Reunite With World Series Champion Catcher Amid Will Smith Injury Concerns appeared first on LA Sports Report.
— Yahoo Sports

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