Will Smith has been sidelined with neck inflammation since early June, and the updates on his condition have straight-up put his return in question, leaving the Dodgers with a massive hole behind the plate. It’s a huge problem for any team, but especially for a “great team” like them. Honestly, for a squad that possesses so many resources and has practically no other holes to fill, looking for a catching addition feels like a total given. This isn’t just about finding a bat, either; the Dodgers ought to be looking for a rock-solid, steady presence, a catcher who can be absolutely relied on to not only do his job but to excel behind the plate defensively.
The Search Is On, And It’s Getting Crazy
Dodgers fans are already weighing in, with surveys asking if the team should just trust Smith’s eventual return or go full-on worst-case scenario and make a move while they still can. This debate has serious layers, because while none of them are explicitly on the block, there are some legit, game-changing options to at least call about. We’re talking big names here: Hunter Goodman, Shea Langeliers, and yeah, even Adley Rutschman. Each of these guys could be seen, within reason, as trade candidates! Any of those guys would be insane, immediate additions, but grabbing one of them would inevitably back the Dodgers into a corner later. Why? Because Smith is going nowhere long-term. Talk about a high-stakes chess match for their front office!
Minnesota Might Have the Fix, For Now
If those mega-star names are too complicated or too much of a long-term headache, the Dodgers might find targets that are more their speed over in Minnesota. We’re talking about Ryan Jeffers or Victor Caratini. Jeffers has been quietly one of the better-hitting catchers in the AL over the last four seasons, and get this: he’s rocking a .933 OPS in a short sample of 44 games this year, even with some missed time. That’s some serious production for a team in need! Then there’s Caratini, who’s under contract through next season at a totally reasonable rate. With him, the Dodgers would be getting stability above all else, adding a player perfectly willing to fade into a backup role down the line. Caratini could even provide some crucial Rushing insurance if that youngster somehow hits his way into staying on as a starter in the playoffs.
Considering the limited experience, or straight-up lack thereof, of players like Eliezer Alfonso and Chuckie Robinson, adding a backstopper who’s actually been there in a postseason environment is just smart business. It’s for the off chance Smith doesn’t make it back, and it’s about making sure the Dodgers are ready for whatever comes next in their season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by True Blue LA.
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