Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Saturday that Smith (neck) will need at least 3-to-4 weeks to fully ramp up and complete a rehab assignment before returning from the 60-day injured list, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.
Smith landed on the IL on June 11 due to neck inflammation, and after a prolonged shutdown, he's finally feeling pain-free and has been cleared to resume baseball activity. Based on the timeline laid out by Roberts, Smith isn't expected to return to the Dodgers lineup until at least late August, barring any setbacks that delay his activation. For now, Dalton Rushing will continue to serve as the Dodgers' primary catcher, while Eliezer Alfonzo provides depth.