Overview
- The Dodgers sent All-Star catcher Will Smith on a Triple-A Oklahoma City rehab assignment on Tuesday, Aug. 25, and he was scheduled to catch five innings in his first outing.
- Manager Dave Roberts said Smith’s initial workload will be eased over multiple games and that a roster activation around Sept. 1 is the target if Smith shows no setbacks in game action.
- Backup Dalton Rushing has a partial UCL tear in his right elbow and, while progressing as a hitter, is unlikely to resume catching this season.
- Los Angeles added Ben Rortvedt and Hunter Feduccia in August to cover major-league catching duties and is using minor-league depth while Smith and Rushing recover.
- The Dodgers emphasized not rushing Smith because his presence stabilizes the pitching staff — the team ERA rose from 3.03 before his injury to 4.27 during his absence — and the club wants him available for the postseason.