The 2025 World Series has brought to light the crucial but often overlooked contributions of Will Smith, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ catcher, whose influence extends far beyond his impressive offensive stats. Known for his strong batting performance, Smith’s role in supporting the pitching staff during the postseason has been indispensable, particularly as the Dodgers aim for a championship.
In Game 2 of the World Series, Smith showcased his batting prowess, driving in critical runs during a 5–1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. He initiated the scoring with an RBI single in the first inning and later broke a tie with a powerful solo home run in the seventh. However, it’s his work behind the plate that has garnered significant attention and praise. His ability to work seamlessly with pitchers, particularly Yoshinobu Yamamoto, has been a key factor in the team’s postseason success.
The Dodgers’ starting rotation has been exceptional this postseason, boasting a remarkable 1.40 ERA over ten games, largely credited to Smith’s strategic calling of pitches. His exceptional game management was recognized by Brewers manager Pat Murphy during the National League Championship Series, highlighting the effectiveness of Smith’s pitch selection and the rapport he developed with his pitchers.
Throughout the season, Smith has been a stabilizing figure for a rotation that transformed dramatically from the first half, where they ranked last in baseball with a 4.20 ERA, to leading the league with a 3.03 ERA by the end of the second half. Despite missing a significant portion of the regular season due to a fractured hand, his return has coincided with a notable turnaround in the performance of the pitching staff, allowing only 14 earned runs in 64 2/3 innings since the start of the NL Division Series.
Smith’s adeptness at juggling pitching arsenals and adapting to various strategies is commendable. Last season’s challenges with bullpen games have sharpened his skills, enabling him to thrive in this postseason’s setup. With the Dodgers fielding a wealth of talented pitchers, including four who play like front-line starters, Smith emphasizes the importance of focusing on each pitch to secure victories.
His journey this season underscores the impact of resilience and adaptability, offering hope for the Dodgers as they strive for success in the World Series. As the postseason progresses, Will Smith remains a pivotal figure, embodying the team’s determination and strength behind the plate.