As Major League Baseball’s trade deadline approaches on August 3, the Los Angeles Dodgers are confronting a pressing roster challenge centered on catcher Will Smith’s ongoing absence due to injury. Smith, a three-time All-Star, has not appeared in a game for the Dodgers in six weeks, and the team remains uncertain about his return timeline.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on Friday that, in a best-case scenario, Smith could remain sidelined for at least another month. When asked whether the team could realistically count on Smith returning this season, Roberts candidly replied, “We don’t know, but we certainly are counting on it.” This uncertainty complicates the Dodgers’ plans as they prepare for the final stretch of the regular season and the postseason run.

The potential absence of Smith places the Dodgers in a difficult position regarding their roster needs. While the team’s focus has generally been on bolstering their starting rotation, Roberts acknowledged the urgent need to strengthen their catching options should Smith’s recovery extend later into the season. Adding a catcher before the trade deadline is now a key consideration as the Dodgers seek to maintain depth behind the plate.

Smith’s injury status has received less attention amid recent roster moves and trade rumors, including those involving starting pitchers like Tarik Skubal. However, the uncertainty surrounding the catcher’s return looms large over the team’s strategic decisions in the coming weeks.

With little clarity expected on Smith’s availability by the trade deadline, the Dodgers are preparing contingency plans. The organization must weigh the risk of waiting for Smith’s recovery against the need to secure reliable catching options to support their pitching staff during the playoff push.

Ultimately, Smith’s health status will be a critical factor in shaping the Dodgers’ trade deadline approach and roster composition heading into October. For now, the team remains hopeful but cautious as they navigate this unexpected hurdle.