Dodgers Announce Will Smith Update Before Mariners Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Sep 28, 2025 2:08 PM ET

Will Smith has consistently been a force for the Los Angeles Dodgers since he debuted in 2019. The 30-year-old catcher made his third consecutive All-Star selection this year after an incredible first half of the season. Over 110 games, Smith owns a .296 batting average, .404 on-base percentage, .901 OPS, 17 home runs and 61 RBIs. He has also taken a step forward defensively, throwing out baserunners at a high rate.

Unfortunately for Los Angeles, Smith has been dealing with a fracture in his right hand that has limited his availability and ruled him out for the regular season. He originally suffered the injury in early September and initially tried to play through it before being placed on the injured list on Sept. 13.

Dave Roberts Shares Update on Will Smith's Injury

As the postseason approaches, the Dodgers have been hopeful that Smith’s return could come during the upcoming NL wild card series.

Ahead of the club’s season finale on Sunday against the Seattle Mariners, the Dodgers announced via manager Dave Roberts that Smith recovered “fine” after swinging yesterday, but he needs to progress to live at-bats tomorrow in order to be activated in time on Tuesday (h/t MLB.com’s Sonja Chen).

Dave Roberts reiterated that he expects Max Muncy to be ready for Game 1 on Tuesday. Tommy Edman should also be available to play in the field then.
Will Smith came away "fine" from swinging yesterday and would need to take live ABs tomorrow to be considered for the roster.
— Sonja Chen (@SonjaMChen) September 28, 2025

If Smith is unable to go for the Dodgers’ opening playoff game, it would be a massive blow to the team’s postseason hopes. He has consistently provided Los Angeles with timely hitting and driving in runners from scoring position. In his absence, Roberts has turned to Ben Rortvedt, who has received high praise from the pitching staff yet does not provide the offensive upside and experience that Smith does.

Smith has been a consistent contributor throughout his seven-year career and has already won two World Series titles (2020, 2024).

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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