Dodgers Face Catcher Dilemma as Trade Deadline Approaches

NEW YORK — The Dodgers have some pressing tasks to tackle ahead of the trade deadline.

First on the list? Finding a new catcher.

Will Smith is entirely sidelined.

He’s not hitting, catching, or throwing — nothing for at least a week, according to manager Dave Roberts.

This three-time All-Star has already spent five weeks dealing with inflammation in his neck.

Now, the big question is: Can the Dodgers rely on Smith to return this season? Or is that still up in the air?

Roberts mentioned, “I don’t know, but I’m definitely looking forward to it.” Which, honestly, leaves a lot to wonder about.

As the August 3 trade deadline looms, uncertainty surrounds Smith’s future. His absence puts the Dodgers in a tough predicament, especially with Dalton Rushing as the only viable catcher on the roster.

Then again, if President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman makes a move for someone like Adley Rutschman from Baltimore, what happens if Smith comes back? Even if he doesn’t return in full form this season or at all, there are ramifications for next year, too.

Another candidate could be Ben Rotvedt. Yes, the same Rotvedt who had a postseason stint with the team last year and was designated for assignment before this season.

Rotvedt, 28, is currently with the Mets’ Triple-A team in Syracuse and knows the Dodgers’ pitchers well. Acquiring him shouldn’t break the bank.

However, it’s worth noting that his offensive output isn’t anything to write home about. Last season, he hit .190 with the Dodgers and only .210 in Syracuse. If he steps in, let’s hope the likes of Kyle Tucker and Mookie Betts can carry the weight.

Honestly, the hope is that it doesn’t come to that. But the reality? That might be the case.

Roberts provided an optimistic spin on Smith’s situation, stating it reflects a change in how the medical team is approaching his care rather than a setback.

“Initially, [we thought] he was getting ready and doing baseball things,” Roberts recalled, “but he hasn’t quite gotten over it yet.”

Since activity seemed to exacerbate the issue, the team decided it was best to let Smith rest for a few days and monitor his progress.

Roberts expressed some hope based on feedback from head trainer Thomas Albert.

“He said Will wasn’t in any pain,” Roberts noted, “so I think we’re in a much better situation.”

Even with that said, Smith’s imminent return isn’t guaranteed.

Roberts added, “It’s going to be a slow growth.” So, realistically, a return might not happen until the end of next month at the earliest.

And that leads to more questions: what happens if Smith isn’t available come October?

His calm demeanor has been vital in critical situations, like hitting a crucial home run in Game 7 of the World Series against the Blue Jays. He also knocked in a key run during Game 2 of that series.

In his career, he boasts five walk-off home runs, and his OPS stands impressively at .928 when the Dodgers are up by a run or tied after the seventh inning.

The Dodgers are truly counting on Smith for impactful moments. Right now, they need him back on the field. But since that’s uncertain, it might be time to prepare for some crucial games without him. Who knows? It could come down to that.