Dodgers Promote Chuckie Robinson as Will Smith Heads to Injured List

The Los Angeles Dodgers have decided to call up minor league catcher Chuckie Robinson to take the place of Will Smith, who is being placed on the injured list due to persistent neck stiffness. Smith has been sidelined for the last four games, missing matchups against both the Los Angeles Angels and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Initially, the injury was not deemed serious, with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts attributing it to poor sleep and minor discomfort. However, the situation has worsened to the point where Smith has been unable to play. In his absence, young catcher Dalton Rushing has stepped up, starting four consecutive games, a demanding task given the physically taxing nature of the catching position.

Following a tough 9-8 defeat to the Pirates, Roberts confirmed that Smith would be placed on the injured list retroactive to Monday, making him eligible to return on June 19. Robinson, who has spent the majority of his career in the minors, played one game for the Dodgers back in 2025 and has been performing well in Triple-A, hitting .260/.321/.442 over 21 games for Oklahoma City.

Robinson's promotion comes as a necessary move to lighten Rushing's workload, especially since catching requires prolonged periods on the knees. Although Robinson has struggled at the major league level with a .131 batting average in 130 at-bats, the Dodgers are confident in his defensive capabilities to help maintain stability behind the plate.

As Smith works on recovery, the Dodgers hope that the neck issue is merely a temporary setback rather than a more serious concern.