Dodgers Activate Will Smith and Dalton Rushing, Designate Ben Rortvedt

The Los Angeles Dodgers have activated Will Smith, Dalton Rushing, and Justin Wrobleski from the injured list as of September 1, 2026. The team also recalled infielder Alex Freeland from Triple-A Oklahoma City and optioned center fielder Alek Thomas.

Will Smith returns after nearly three months due to neck disc inflammation, having completed a rehab assignment where he played five games and hit a home run. Dalton Rushing, recovering from a partial UCL tear, is back without a rehab stint but may not catch again this season. Ben Rortvedt, who had been brought in to share catching duties, was designated for assignment to make room for Smith.

Rortvedt, who has struggled offensively, will be placed on waivers this week. The Dodgers hope he clears waivers and accepts a minor league assignment, as he is out of options and would need to be added to another team's roster if claimed.