Los Angeles Dodgers anticipate catcher Will Smith's return in August

Catcher Will Smith has been on the Dodgers' injured list since June 6 with an inflamed disc in his neck. Team officials said the timeline for his recovery remains uncertain, but manager Dave Roberts told reporters the player is about three to four weeks away from returning, which would place his comeback in mid‑to‑late August. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman noted that the exact schedule is “uncharted territory” for Smith and will depend on his progress in a rehab assignment.

In Smith’s absence, the club has relied on backups Dalton Rushing and Eliezer Alfonzo Jr., who have been performing well behind the plate. Despite the injury, Los Angeles continues to lead the National League with a 69‑41 record and is focused on maintaining its top seed for the postseason. The timing of Smith’s return could affect roster decisions after the trade deadline, though the team expects to address any pitching needs rather than the catching spot.