Smith's Return Timeline
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith eyes return in three to four weeks after neck injury
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Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith is out for at least three to four more weeks after being sidelined since June 5 with an inflamed disc in his neck, according to USA Today. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Smith will also need a rehab assignment before returning to the majors.
Smith showed signs of progress this week, hitting on the field and throwing at Dodger Stadium. But with a long road still ahead, the Dodgers may need to add another catcher to cover the gap, Yahoo Sports reported.
Inflamed Disc Has Kept Smith Out Since Early June
Smith has not played a major league game since June 5. The injury is an inflamed disc in his neck — a condition where the cushion between two vertebrae becomes irritated and swollen. That kind of injury can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, making it unsafe to catch or swing a bat.
Neck injuries are especially tricky for catchers. The position requires constant head movement, crouching, and sudden throwing motions. Rushing back too soon can make the problem worse. Roberts has made it clear the team will not take any risks with Smith's recovery, USA Today noted.
Smith Back on Field Throwing and Hitting This Week
Smith was spotted working out at Dodger Stadium this week. He took batting practice and tested his arm by throwing. Those are two big steps. Just weeks ago, he was not able to do either without pain.
Still, Roberts was careful not to get fans' hopes up. The manager said it would take at least three to four weeks from now before Smith could be ready. That timeline includes a rehab assignment — games in the minor leagues to make sure he is fully ready before rejoining the Dodgers, according to Yahoo Sports.
Dalton Rushing Steps In as Primary Backup Catcher
With Smith out, the Dodgers have turned to Dalton Rushing behind the plate. Rushing is a young catcher who has filled in as the team's main option. The Dodgers have managed without Smith, but losing an All-Star at a key position puts real pressure on the roster.
USA Today reported the Dodgers could look to add another catcher while Smith remains out. With a month-long absence expected, relying on just one backup carries risk — especially if Rushing were to get hurt or struggle.
Dodgers Face Roster Decisions as Smith Return Looms
The earliest Smith could return to the majors is mid-to-late July, based on the three-to-four-week estimate plus rehab time. That puts his return around the stretch run before the All-Star break or shortly after — a critical stretch in the NL West race.
The Dodgers are one of the best teams in baseball. But a healthy Will Smith makes them significantly stronger. His bat, his defense, and his ability to work with the pitching staff are hard to replace. The team will monitor his progress closely in the coming weeks, according to Yahoo Sports.
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