As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up to face the Cincinnati Reds in the National League Wild Card Series starting Tuesday, all eyes are on All-Star catcher Will Smith. According to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, “Source: Dodgers are set to carry Will Smith on the Wild Card roster as one of three catchers. Smith’s expected to be available as a pinch-hitter off the bench, per source.”
Smith, who has been out since taking a foul ball to his right hand during the East Coast trip, remains a question mark for the postseason. While CT scans and X-rays were negative, persistent swelling has delayed his return to full action. Manager Dave Roberts said Monday, “We’re encouraged by his progress. Smith’s return is predicated on whether he can swing the bat effectively. If not, Smith will miss the first round and possibly the second round of the postseason.”
But this is an encouraging sign that the catcher is able to take tries at the plate.
Dodgers Adjust Roster With Smith’s Role in Mind
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Even if Smith isn’t fully available, Los Angeles has depth behind the plate. Rookie Ben Rortvedt, acquired at the trade deadline, has excelled, posting the best ERA in baseball behind the plate while hitting near .300. LA plans to carry three catchers on the Wild Card roster, allowing Smith to contribute in a limited, pinch-hitting role while maintaining roster flexibility.
Max Muncy Returns
Adding to the Dodgers’ offensive potential, Max Muncy is expected to be in the lineup for Game 1 after missing the final games of the regular season with a leg bruise. Muncy has battled multiple injuries this year, including a bone bruise in his knee and a strained oblique, but his presence is significant. The Dodgers are 20 games over .500 when Muncy plays, and he has batted close to .300 since July, providing a key boost to Los Angeles’ lineup.
Dodgers Look to Defend Title
LA finished the 2025 season as the No. 3 seed in the National League and winners of the NL West. While the Reds are underdogs in the Wild Card Series, having Smith, even in a limited pinch-hitting capacity, and Muncy at full strength gives Los Angeles options to navigate the high-stakes postseason. With both stars potentially contributing, the Dodgers are positioning themselves to make a serious run at back-to-back World Series championships.