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Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Will Smith following the three-time All-Star’s recent return from nearly three months on the injured list due to neck inflammation, per staff at Dodger Blue. Roberts highlighted Smith’s value to the organization as extending beyond on-field production, emphasizing the veteran catcher’s presence and leadership as the team navigates a critical stretch toward October baseball.

Smith missed an extended period due to neck inflammation that proved more serious than initially assessed. For a catcher, neck issues carry particular significance—the position demands constant rotation, quick reflexes, and physical resilience. Missing three months represents a significant gap in both development and team continuity. Smith’s return means the Dodgers can begin reestablishing their primary catching situation rather than relying on backup depth. The question isn’t whether Smith can return to All-Star form immediately. It’s whether his presence in the lineup provides stability and leadership to a team dealing with cascading injuries to Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman. Roberts’ comment about the organization being able to “count on” Smith suggests the manager values Smith’s veteran presence and game management as much as his bat. For Smith personally, the challenge is proving he can perform at a high level after an extended absence. Neck injuries can linger. Conditioning and timing take time to rebuild. But having the organizational confidence of his manager provides Smith psychological foundation to succeed.

For the Dodgers, Smith’s return provides depth at a critical position. With injuries piling up across the offense, having a capable veteran catcher back in the lineup addresses one position where they can now rely on established talent rather than improvisation. Hunter Feduccia and Eliezer Alfonzo have provided serviceable depth in Smith’s absence, but neither carries the experience or reputation of a three-time All-Star. Reestablishing Smith as the primary catcher allows the Dodgers to stabilize that defensive position while also providing an additional offensive weapon in a lineup that’s been forced to adapt due to injuries. Roberts’ confidence in Smith serves as a statement to the clubhouse: we’re getting healthy, and we’re preparing for a serious October run. Smith’s return is one piece of that puzzle. Whether it’s enough to compensate for all the other injuries and absences will become clear over the final weeks of the season.

Source(s): Staff (Dodger Blue) | First reported: September 11, 2026 5:08 PM UTC

God Bless and Go Dodgers