Overview
- The Dodgers announced Thursday that All-Star catcher Will Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to June 8 for neck inflammation, making him eligible to return on June 19.
- Manager Dave Roberts and team medical staff described the issue as an inflamed disc with no structural damage and said they want Smith to complete a full day of work before resuming game action.
- With Smith sidelined, Dalton Rushing has taken over primary catching duties and will continue to start while the club manages the workload behind the plate.
- The Dodgers cleared a 40-man roster spot by releasing Tyler Fitzgerald and recalled Triple-A catcher Chuckie Robinson to provide an experienced backup and occasional starts.
- The move is intended as a short-term, precautionary step to protect Smith’s health and preserve roster continuity as the Dodgers pursue their NL West lead.