Will Smith saw action after an injury scare, providing a run-scoring spark in limited ABs. His presence gives the Dodgers flexibility at catcher and in the lineup, but durability and offensive output remain key questions moving forward.

Smith’s status is a day-to-day calling card; how the Dodgers deploy him during the series will shape late-inning options and defense behind the dish.

Smith, as Dodgers catcher, notes the viability of DH and the team’s tight rosters, framing the ongoing balance between offense and defense in the postseason, while supporting Hernández’s role in the lineup through his handling of pitch-calling and offensive contributions.

Smith’s framing and catcher work anchor LA’s game plan, with insights about his role behind the plate and in the lineup as a steady contributor for offense and pitch-calling, including a potential shift toward increased DH expectations as needed.

Smith’s guidance helped Glasnow navigate his first relief appearance since 2018, underscoring the behind-the-scenes trust between catcher and pitcher that fuels this experimental bullpen approach.