Dodgers' Will Smith Begins Rehab as Return Nears

Rehab underway. Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith will take the next step in his recovery when he begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday. The move marks the beginning of Smith's path back to the major-league roster after spending the bulk of the season on the injured list.

Long absence. Smith has been sidelined since early June when an inflamed disc in his neck forced him to the sidelines. Nearly three months without game action represents a significant gap, making the controlled environment of a minor-league rehab stint crucial for building back conditioning and confidence. The Dodgers have been cautious with the injury, given the sensitivity of neck issues in baseball.

Why it matters for LA. The Dodgers' catching depth has been tested throughout Smith's absence, with other players filling the role. Bringing Smith back at full strength would provide major-league baseball's best catcher—when healthy—back into a potent lineup. His bat and defense represent meaningful upgrades over temporary solutions, especially in a pennant race where depth and production matter.

Timeline questions remain. A rehab assignment doesn't guarantee an immediate recall. The Dodgers will monitor how Smith responds to game action, whether his neck holds up to the physical demands, and whether he needs extended time in Triple-A to shake off the rust. How quickly he progresses through the assignment will determine whether he's available for the final stretch of the regular season.

Source: original report ↗