Dodgers’ Will Smith Reflects on First WBC Experience

Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star catcher Will Smith commented on his experience at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Smith played in four games for Team USA, featuring against Great Britain, Italy, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, who won the tournament. Team USA has made the final in each of the last three WBCs, but have won just once. In the tournament, Smith slashed .231/.313/.308 in 13 at-bats and had a single RBI.

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“Those games were a lot of fun,” Smith said. “You’re playing for your country. There’s a lot of passion going into it. There’s a lot of excitement. The crowds are awesome. So definitely grateful for those experiences. Wish we would’ve won it.

“It still stings right now. But luckily we get our rings in a couple days from the World Series last year, so I think that’ll change my mind.”

The Dodgers are holding their ring ceremony following their 2025 World Series win against the Diamondbacks Friday. Smith played a huge role in the Dodgers’ thrilling Game 7 comeback win, hitting the game-winning home run in extra innings.

Mar 15, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; United States catcher Will Smith (16) celebrates after defeating the Dominican Republic in a semifinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

What Role will Will Smith Play in 2026?

Smith is set to enter his eighth season with the Dodgers, and will look to put together yet another All-Star campaign. He’s coming off of a fantastic 2025, making a third consecutive All-Star appearance while posting a .901 OPS — his best since the shortened 2020 season.

He hit 17 homers and tallied 61 RBIs through 110 games last year, slashing .296/.404/.497 throughout the year.

The veteran will remain as the Dodgers’ starting catcher next year, though the emergence of Dalton Rushing could take a little more playing time from him. Rushing, who was the Dodgers’ No. 1 prospect in 2025, will begin the year with the Dodgers, and is aiming to get a little more time on the field after playing in just 53 games last year.

While his time with the Dodgers’ camp in spring training was brief, he posted great numbers in the Cactus League. He hit a home run and had two RBIs with a 1.215 OPS through five games played.

How are you feeling about Will Smith heading into a new season?

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