LA Dodgers Strengthen Roster: Justin Wrobleski and Will Smith Return for Postseason Push

As the Major League Baseball season reaches its critical final stretch, the Los Angeles Dodgers are making strategic moves to ensure they are battle-ready for the postseason. With the active roster expanding to 28 players, the team has welcomed back several key reinforcements, most notably the return of star catcher Will Smith and the versatile left-hander Justin Wrobleski.

The Return of a Pillar: Will Smith is Back

After a challenging three-month hiatus due to an inflamed disc in his neck, catcher Will Smith has officially been reinstated from the 60-day injured list. Smith’s absence was felt deeply, not just in the statistics but in the team’s overall composure.

Manager Dave Roberts emphasized that Smith brings more than just a bat to the plate. “The experience, the calmness in the box, the managing of the pitching staff — all that stuff is crucial,” Roberts noted. While Smith’s season stats prior to the injury were modest (.249 average), his leadership behind the dish is considered invaluable for the Dodgers’ pitching staff.

Bullpen Boost: The Impact of Justin Wrobleski

One of the most exciting additions to the immediate rotation is Justin Wrobleski. A first-time All-Star as a starter this year, Wrobleski returns from the injured list after dealing with minor inflammation in his left forearm.

In a tactical shift for the stretch run, Wrobleski is set to join the bullpen as a multi-inning reliever. This flexibility allows the Dodgers to deploy his left-handed talent more strategically, providing a crucial bridge to the closer and adding depth to a pitching staff that needs to be airtight heading into October.

Strategic Roster Shuffles and New Faces

The Dodgers didn’t stop with Smith and Wrobleski. The team has meticulously adjusted its bench to increase offensive versatility:

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• Dalton Rushing: Activated from the IL, though he will serve as a hitter only for now due to a partial UCL tear in his right arm.
• Alex Freeland: Added to the roster to provide a switch-hitting option at second base, potentially allowing Tommy Edman more time in center field.

To make room for these additions, the Dodgers optioned outfielder Alek Thomas to Triple-A Oklahoma City and designated catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment.

Overcoming the August Slump

The timing of these returns is critical. The Dodgers faced a rare struggle in August, posting a 13-14 record—their first losing month of the season. While the addition of players like Justin Wrobleski improves the team’s margins, Dave Roberts is clear: the core regulars must step up.

The goal is to provide the current lineup the “runway” they need to find their rhythm before the postseason begins. However, if the offensive slump continues, bigger changes may be on the horizon.

With additional reinforcements like Blake Treinen and Edwin Díaz also nearing returns, the LA Dodgers are positioning themselves as a powerhouse once again, blending fresh legs with veteran stability.