The Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday unveiled a series of roster moves that significantly alter the catching corps and bode well for a position of concern heading into the playoffs.
The team announced that catchers Will Smith and Dalton Rushing are both being activated from the injured list, while the recently reacquired Ben Rortvedt is being designated for assignment.
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) celebrates after hitting a home run against the Toronto Blue Jays in the eleventh inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
In addition, infielder Alex Freeland is officially being added to the roster, and pitcher Justin Wrobleski is also returning from the IL. To make room, outfielder Alek Thomas is being designated for assignment.
Dodgers are preparing for postseason push
As sad is it will be for many to see fan favorite Rortvedt go, this transaction indicates strength in the Dodgers’ catching corps.
Smith, who’s missed much of the season with a lingering neck issue, will return to his starting catching spot, and it appears Hunter Feduccia, another trade deadline addition alongside Rortvedt, will remain on the roster as the backup catcher.
Rushing, who is technically a catcher, suffered a slight UCL tear and is likely returning more for his bat than to play defense, as he’s also played some designated hitter this season.
This series of moves shores up more than just catcher, though.
Wrobleski, who was an All-Star this season, is believed to be rejoining as a bullpen arm, providing a solid option for a unit that has struggled at times.
And while it’s unfortunate that Thomas is being designated, it’s likely that the tough decision bodes well for the Dodgers’ playoff run.
Thomas’ absence will mean that players like Kike Hernandez or even Tommy Edman see time in the outfield, but only for a limited amount of time.
The Dodgers likely wouldn’t let Thomas go without strong belief that Andy Pages, another All-Star, will return from his broken wrist this season and be able to contribute again for the Boys in Blue.
Aug 21, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages (44) walks with head athletic trainer Thomas Albert (left) and manager Dave Roberts (30) after being hit by a pitch in the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
It’s a lot of transactions that hit all at once, but Dodgers fans should feel encouraged not only about the strengthened catching corps but also about a stronger bullpen and hope for a quick return for an All-Star outfielder.
All in all, it’s exactly what this Dodgers team needs after a forgettable August full of poor hitting and bullpen collapses.
Which returning Dodger are you most excited to see?
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