Dave Roberts Announces Reason for Will Smith's Removal From Dodgers Lineup
The Los Angeles Dodgers are beginning to look like the team many expected entering the season. They have won eight of their last 10 games heading into Sunday's series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers and now sit alone on top in the National League West with a 32-20 record.
Even with the team rolling, catcher Will Smith is still searching for consistency at the plate. The 31-year-old owns a .247 batting average, a .319 on-base percentage, a .669 OPS, four home runs and 20 RBIs across 43 games.
Smith is a three-time All-Star, and much of his value comes from his bat, so his slow start is something the Dodgers are monitoring closely.
Fortunately for Los Angeles, they have another capable option behind the plate in Dalton Rushing. On Sunday, ahead of the series finale, manager Dave Roberts turned to Rushing once again, marking the second time in three days he has started. This was not a surprise.
Roberts announced on Friday that the plan was for Rushing to start twice over the weekend, giving Smith two days off to rest and work on his swing (h/t David Vassegh of SportsNet LA).
Smith did have a productive day on Saturday during the Dodgers' 11-3 win, reaching base twice on a walk and a hit while driving in a run.
Dave Roberts said Dalton Rushing will catch 2 games in Milwaukee. Smith catches tomorrow facing LHP, Robert Gasser.
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) May 22, 2026
Roberts wanted to give Smith time to work on his swing and get rest from behind the plate. #Dodgers
Still, the team is sticking to its plan, and Rushing will handle catching duties on Sunday. That does not rule out Smith appearing in the game. Roberts has often used him in pinch hitting situations, and Smith has thrived in that role throughout his career.
Smith's next chance to return to the starting lineup will come Monday when the Dodgers open a series against the Colorado Rockies. For now, the Dodgers are prioritizing rest and long-term performance, hoping that Smith can figure it out as the summer progresses.
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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 1:10 PM.