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37m ago

Will Smith Cleared to Catch for NLDS as Dodgers Weigh Game 1 Role

Los Angeles plans a three-catcher setup to manage his workload after a right‑hand hairline fracture.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Injured catcher Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers, with his right hand in a brace, walks off the field after they defeated the San Francisco Giants, 7-5, at Dodger Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Dodgers catcher Will Smith, who has not played since Sept. 9 while a hairline fracture in his right hand has been healing, is expected to be available to catch during the National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Image
Sep 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers injured catcher Will Smith (left) with his right hand in a brace talks with designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) during the eighth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Manager Dave Roberts said Smith will be available to catch against the Phillies, and Smith told reporters he will not start Game 1.
  • Smith took live at-bats during Friday’s workout at Citizens Bank Park and described himself as near 100%.
  • The Dodgers will carry Smith, Ben Rortvedt and Dalton Rushing for the series, with Rortvedt tabbed to start the opener.
  • Smith has not played since Sept. 9 with a hairline fracture in his right hand and was rostered but unused in the Wild Card round.
  • An off day between Games 1 and 2 gives the Dodgers flexibility to stagger Smith’s catching duties early in the series.