Dodgers' Will Smith Makes Announcement on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 20, 2026 1:49 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers captured their second straight World Series title in 2025, and the reigning champions enter the 2026 MLB season with an even stronger core after signing closer Edwin Diaz and outfielder Kyle Tucker in free agency.

Those additions bolster an already star-studded roster. Yet amid the spotlight on top-tier names, catcher Will Smith remains a rare force both at the plate and behind it.

The 30-year-old veteran posted a .296 batting average, .404 on-base percentage, .901 OPS, 17 home runs and 61 RBIs across 110 games last season, earning his third consecutive All-Star selection.

His ability to produce offensively while handling the demands of catching makes him one of the most valuable players in baseball.

Smith’s reputation as a clutch performer only grew last October. In Game 7 of the Fall Classic against the Toronto Blue Jays, he delivered the go-ahead home run in extra innings, a decisive swing that sealed the Dodgers’ championship repeat. That moment further cemented his status as a fan favorite in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Away from the field, Smith has used his platform to make an impact through his Catching Hope Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Cara.

The organization’s mission is to help underprivileged children develop critical skills for leadership, self-advocacy and self-sufficiency, providing tools to achieve success starting with those who need it most.

On Tuesday, Smith announced on social media that Catching Hope will partner with Netflix Is A Joke for a Dodgers comedy event hosted by actor and comedian Ken Jeong.

The show is scheduled for May 7 at The Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. Smith reposted the announcement on his Instagram story, adding the caption, “Hope to see you all there!!"

Fans will have the opportunity to purchase tickets beginning Friday, with proceeds benefiting the foundation.

Will Smith’s Leadership Central to Dodgers’ Three-Peat Pursuit

Smith was drafted by the Dodgers in the first round of the 2016 MLB Draft and made his big-league debut in 2019.

Since then, he has spent his entire career with the organization, becoming one of the most reliable catchers in baseball.

With a 10-year, $140 million extension signed in March 2024, Smith is positioned to finish his career in Los Angeles.

As the offseason winds down, the focus will soon shift back to the field, where his leadership and production will be central to the Dodgers’ pursuit of a historic three-peat in 2026.

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

More must-reads: