The Los Angeles Dodgers have kicked off their spring training at Camelback Ranch, but the team is already facing some injury challenges. As they prepare for the upcoming season, it’s crucial for players to stay healthy and maximize their performance during these early training sessions.

Latest Updates: Dodgers Could Face Early Season Setbacks with 2 Key Relievers on Injured List

During a recent press conference, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts disclosed that All-Star catcher Will Smith is currently dealing with an ankle injury and is described as “a little behind” schedule in his recovery. To aid his rehabilitation, Smith has been utilizing an Alter-G treadmill, which allows him to run while reducing the impact on his ankle, helping him get back to peak performance ahead of the season opener.

Despite the injury concern, reports from The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya indicate that Smith participated in catching Tyler Glasnow during his bullpen session on Friday and is also slated for a live batting practice session soon. This suggests that while he is dealing with an injury, it may not be serious enough to sideline him significantly as the Dodgers prepare for the season.

In the previous season, Smith had an impressive performance, concluding 2024 with a batting average of .248, an on-base percentage of .327, and a slugging percentage of .433. He hit 20 home runs and drove in 75 runs, earning his place on the All-Star team for the second consecutive year, solidifying his status as one of the top catchers in Major League Baseball.

Backing up Smith is the dependable Austin Barnes, who has consistently proven himself as a reliable catcher for the Dodgers. Additionally, the team has Hunter Feduccia on the 40-man roster, providing depth in the catching position and ensuring that the team can maintain strong performance levels even in the face of injury challenges.

Smith has approximately one month to regain his fitness and readiness for the season. The Dodgers will commence their season with games in Japan on March 18 and 19, before returning stateside for their domestic Opening Day on March 27, marking an exciting start to the 2025 MLB season.

Latest Updates: Dodgers Add Veteran Reliever from Free Agency with Experience from Padres, Angels, and Red Sox

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

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