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MLB·ANALYSIS·July 20, 2026 10:33 AM ET

Dodgers weigh trade deadline pivot after Will Smith injury

Dalton Rushing is their only catcher left for October.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 201 min read
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What happened: The Los Angeles Dodgers are evaluating their approach to the August 3 trade deadline following a neck injury to Will Smith. The club shut down the catcher for a week of no baseball activity, although his pain has subsided.

Why it matters: Holding a strong position in the National League, Los Angeles needs reliable depth behind the plate for the remainder of the season. Without an external addition, prospect Dalton Rushing would be the only catcher left on the roster for October.

By the numbers: The Dodgers hold a 59-33 record, scoring 5.2 runs per game while allowing 3.7 this season.

What to watch: Los Angeles faces the Philadelphia Phillies today as the front office navigates the market before the trade deadline.

Sources

  • MLB.com 
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