Dodgers Catcher Will Smith Signs 10-Year Extension

Smith says Dodgers pitchers are the most challenging to catch in MLB.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 10:23am

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Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith has signed a 10-year, $140 million contract extension to remain with the team through the 2035 season. Smith, who has been the Dodgers' starting catcher since 2019, says the Dodgers' pitching staff is the most challenging in MLB to catch, even more so than Shohei Ohtani and the Angels or Clayton Kershaw and the rest of the Dodgers' rotation.

Why it matters

The Dodgers have one of the most dominant pitching staffs in baseball, and keeping their All-Star catcher Will Smith in the fold for the next decade is crucial to their continued success. Smith's ability to handle the Dodgers' pitchers, who are known for their high-velocity stuff and diverse pitch mixes, is a major asset for the team.

The details

Smith, 28, has been the Dodgers' starting catcher since 2019 and has made the All-Star team twice in his four seasons. He is considered one of the best all-around catchers in the game, with strong defensive skills and a potent bat. In his career, Smith has a .273 batting average with 79 home runs and 233 RBIs. He says the Dodgers' pitchers, with their combination of power, movement, and pitch variety, present the biggest challenge for a catcher in MLB.

  • Will Smith signed a 10-year, $140 million contract extension with the Dodgers on February 18, 2026.

The players

Will Smith

The starting catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, a four-time All-Star who is considered one of the best all-around catchers in baseball.

Los Angeles Dodgers

A professional baseball team based in Los Angeles, California, that plays in the National League West division of Major League Baseball.

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What they’re saying

“The Dodgers' pitchers are the most challenging group I've had to catch in my career. The combination of power, movement, and pitch variety they have is unmatched.”

— Will Smith, Dodgers Catcher

What’s next

Smith will continue to be the Dodgers' starting catcher as they look to win another World Series championship in 2026 and beyond.

The takeaway

Keeping an elite catcher like Will Smith in the fold is crucial for the Dodgers, who have one of the most dominant pitching staffs in baseball. Smith's ability to handle the Dodgers' high-powered pitchers is a major asset for the team as they aim to contend for championships over the next decade.