What happened: Dodgers fans and analysts are weighing whether Los Angeles should trade for a catcher with Will Smith out since early June with neck inflammation. Names in the mix range from higher-upside, controllable options in Hunter Goodman, Shea Langeliers and Adley Rutschman to lower-cost fits in Minnesota's Ryan Jeffers and Victor Caratini. None of the players are confirmed as available.

Why it matters: Any deal built around Goodman, Langeliers or Rutschman would create a long-term logjam once Smith is healthy, since the Dodgers have no plans to move him beyond this season. A depth add like Caratini, under contract through next season, would instead offer bench stability and insurance behind rookie Rushing without disrupting the position long-term.

What to watch: Watch for clarity on Smith's timeline and any formal trade interest as the deadline approaches.