Los Angeles Dodgers star catcher Will Smith has been sidelined since June 8 because of a neck injury that has refused to go away.

Smith is currently on the 60-day Injured List and has endured multiple setbacks throughout his recovery. There was finally some encouraging progress recently, but the veteran catcher remains a significant distance from returning to the lineup.

Manager Dave Roberts provided the latest update on Smith’s rehabilitation. Roberts explained that Smith has been throwing and completing his daily weight-room work, with his condition improving.

The manager considers this an important week in the recovery process and expects Smith to begin taking batting practice against Dodgers coaches at some point during the week.

“He’s been throwing, [doing] the weight room stuff each day,” Roberts said according to the Orange County Register.

“It’s been better, so this is going to be a big week for Will. And my expectation is that he should be taking some coaches’ batting practice at some point this week.”

Once Smith progresses further with his hitting program, the next step will be a minor league rehab assignment.

That means his return is likely still at least three weeks away, potentially keeping him out until September.

Before the injury, Smith had struggled offensively, hitting .249 with six home runs and 23 RBIs in 52 games. The extended absence could provide an opportunity for a reset, although he will need sufficient time after returning to prepare for the postseason.

When Smith initially went down, Los Angeles primarily turned to Dalton Rushing.

However, Rushing is currently sidelined with a slightly torn right UCL, leaving his availability for the remainder of the season uncertain.

That has forced the Dodgers to rely on Ben Rortvedt and Hunter Feduccia, two catchers acquired at the trade deadline.

Both previously spent time in the Dodgers organization, giving them some familiarity with the pitching staff. Still, it is far from an ideal situation, particularly because neither catcher is known primarily for his offense.

Rushing had provided important production during Smith’s absence. The young catcher showed significant offensive development, hitting .253 with 12 home runs, 36 RBIs and an .809 OPS in 74 games.

For now, Rortvedt and Feduccia must carry the catching workload and provide whatever offensive contribution they can.

Beyond his ability at the plate, he provides experience handling a pitching staff filled with established starters and high-leverage relievers.

Catching requires communication, preparation and an understanding of how individual pitchers want to attack opposing hitters.

Smith also brings stability to a demanding position. His familiarity with the Dodgers’ pitchers allows him to manage games without needing the same adjustment period required from a newer catcher.

His postseason experience matters as well. Los Angeles expects to play meaningful games deep into October, where preparation and trust between pitchers and catchers become increasingly important.

The Dodgers need either Smith or Rushing healthy for the postseason. Otherwise, a position that once represented considerable depth could become a significant weakness in their lineup.