The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to receive positive signs regarding catcher Will Smith’s recovery, but manager Dave Roberts made it clear that fans shouldn’t expect the All-Star back in the lineup before the MLB All-Star Break.
Speaking with reporters, Roberts revealed that Smith has taken another important step in his rehabilitation by participating in batting cage sessions and resuming his throwing program. While the update offers plenty of optimism, the Dodgers skipper stopped short of providing a specific return date, emphasizing that Smith’s comeback is still expected to happen sometime after the midsummer classic.
For a Dodgers team with World Series aspirations, Smith’s return cannot come soon enough.
One of the premier catchers in Major League Baseball, Smith has been a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ lineup for several seasons. His combination of power, plate discipline, and elite defensive skills makes him one of the club’s most valuable everyday players. Losing him has forced the Dodgers to rely more heavily on their catching depth while navigating one of the toughest stretches of the regular season.
Roberts’ latest comments, however, suggest the recovery process is moving in the right direction.
Hitting in the batting cages represents a significant milestone for any player returning from injury. It indicates that Smith is regaining confidence in his swing while gradually increasing baseball activity. Equally important is his return to throwing, a critical step for catchers whose defensive responsibilities demand constant arm strength and durability.
Despite those encouraging developments, the Dodgers remain committed to a cautious approach.
Rather than rushing Smith back into game action, the organization appears focused on ensuring he returns at full strength for the second half of the season and, more importantly, the postseason. With October baseball serving as the ultimate goal, the club understands that preserving the health of one of its biggest stars outweighs any short-term gains.
Smith’s absence has undoubtedly been felt throughout the lineup. Beyond his offensive production, he serves as an essential leader behind the plate, working closely with the Dodgers’ talented pitching staff. His ability to manage games, frame pitches, and build chemistry with starters has long been considered one of the hidden strengths of Los Angeles’ championship-caliber roster.
The timing of his expected return could also prove beneficial.
Coming back shortly after the All-Star Break would allow Smith to gradually regain game rhythm while still having ample time to prepare for the playoff push. If everything continues progressing without setbacks, the Dodgers could welcome back one of their most important contributors just as the pennant race intensifies.
For now, Roberts isn’t offering additional details beyond confirming that Smith’s recovery remains on schedule.
That may not satisfy fans eager to see the All-Star catcher back in Dodger blue, but the latest update is undeniably encouraging. Every successful workout, every throwing session, and every swing in the batting cage brings Smith one step closer to returning to the lineup.
As the Dodgers continue chasing another National League title, the eventual return of Will Smith could provide one of the biggest second-half boosts of any contender in Major League Baseball. Until then, patience remains the organization’s top priority, with the expectation that one of baseball’s elite catchers will be ready to make a major impact after the All-Star Break.