Dodgers pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report for spring training on Feb. 12. As we count down the days until camp begins, we are going through the various position groups to give a breakdown of where the roster stands. Today, we look at the catchers. Previously: outfielders.
2025 RECAP
Will Smith continued to emerge as possibly the best catcher in the National League. His .296 batting average and .901 OPS were career-highs for a full season – and held up despite a broken hand suffered in the final month of the regular season. His ability in the clutch has proven particularly valuable to the Dodgers – exemplified by his game-winning home run in Game 7 of the World Series (a Series during which he caught all 73 innings, including an 18-inning Game 3 and an 11-inning Game 7). After parting ways with the popular veteran Austin Barnes in May, the Dodgers chose to break in Dalton Rushing at the major-league level as Smith’s backup for most of the 2025 season. It was a difficult role for Rushing, who began the season as the Dodgers’ top prospect. He hit just .204 with a .582 OPS in sporadic playing time after his promotion.
HOW IT LOOKS RIGHT NOW
Samesies? The Dodgers are counting on Smith to once again be an anchor behind home plate and a “silent assassin” (Freddie Freeman’s description) as the quietest star in a lineup filled with stars. Rushing, meanwhile, will have to continue finding his way at the big-league level with limited playing time.
THE NEXT LAYER
Smith and Rushing are the only catchers on the Dodgers’ 40-man roster. Chuckie Robinson (52 major-league games) was re-signed to a minor-league contract in December.
MOVES THEY COULD MAKE
An injury to Smith could send the Dodgers shopping for an experienced backup to join Rushing.