Overview
- Both primary catchers are on the injured list, with Will Smith progressing through on-field hitting drills and eyed for a likely September return if his neck holds up.
- Dalton Rushing has returned to batting practice and is pursuing a non-surgical recovery to salvage at-bats, but his ability to resume throwing and catch remains a long shot according to manager Dave Roberts.
- The Dodgers added Ben Rortvedt and Hunter Feduccia at the trade deadline to handle MLB catching duties while also replacing and later releasing Chuckie Robinson from the organization.
- Los Angeles signed veteran Chadwick Tromp to a minor-league deal to bolster Triple-A depth and preserve lineup flexibility in case either of the new MLB-level catchers needs time off.
- Catching depth matters beyond offense because a torn UCL can allow hitting but delay throwing, so the team’s medical plans and low-cost transactions shape late-season lineup choices and postseason roster options.