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Dodgers' Wild Card Roster Surprises with Key Absences

9/30/2025

31 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Dodgers' Wild Card roster omits Michael Conforto and Anthony Banda.
Will Smith returns from a hand fracture, likely as pinch hitter.
Three catchers—Will Smith, Ben Rortvedt, and Dalton Rushing—provide depth.
Justin Dean's inclusion is surprising; limited MLB experience but offers speed and defense.
The Dodgers carry 11 pitchers, with Shohei Ohtani's status enabling flexibility.

History

Historical Context

The Los Angeles Dodgers' postseason success in 2014, marked by 94 wins and standout players like Clayton Kershaw and Yasiel Puig, reflects a broader trend in Major League Baseball towards roster versatility. This evolution continued with recent strategic decisions, including Will Smith's return and Justin Dean's inclusion, emphasizing depth as crucial for playoff performance and future team dynamics.

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Story summary

The Dodgers' Wild Card roster omits Michael Conforto and Anthony Banda.
Will Smith returns from a hand fracture, likely as pinch hitter.
Three catchers—Will Smith, Ben Rortvedt, and Dalton Rushing—provide depth.
Justin Dean's inclusion is surprising; limited MLB experience but offers speed and defense.
The Dodgers carry 11 pitchers, with Shohei Ohtani's status enabling flexibility.

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