Dodgers Prepare for Wild Card Series Against Reds

As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for their National League Wild Card series against the Cincinnati Reds, manager Dave Roberts has confirmed significant roster updates. The series begins on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Dodger Stadium, with the Dodgers holding home-field advantage. The team has officially announced a 26-man roster that includes notable players such as Max Muncy, Will Smith, and Roki Sasaki.

Sports IllustratedDodgers Notes: Will Smith Could Make Roster, Roki Sasaki Wild Card Status Revealed, Max Muncy Injury UpdateSports IllustratedMax Muncy and Roki Sasaki lead Dodgers’ wild card roster shake-up with Will Smith adding star powerDodgers wild card roster: Will Smith returns, no Michael ConfortoNewsweekDodgers announce probable Wild Card Game 1 starter (and surprising roster exclusion)Big Takeaways From the Dodgers’ Surprising 26-Man Wild Card RosterDodgers to carry 3 catchers for wild-card series vs. Reds

Max Muncy, who has been dealing with leg bruising, confirmed his availability for Game 1, stating, “Everything feels good. I’ll be available for tomorrow.” Muncy has faced multiple injuries this season but is expected to play a crucial role in the playoffs. The Dodgers' starting rotation for the series will feature Blake Snell in Game 1, Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2, and Shohei Ohtani in a potential Game 3.

Sports Illustrated

All-Star catcher Will Smith, who has been sidelined since September 9 due to a hairline fracture in his right hand, will also be on the active roster. Although he is likely to serve as a pinch hitter, his presence adds depth to the lineup. Roberts expressed optimism about Smith's recovery, noting that he participated in live batting practice and showed positive signs. Smith's regular-season performance included a .296 batting average with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs, making him a vital asset for the Dodgers.

Will Smith’s triumphant return to Dodgers’ Wild Card roster sparks hope as pinch-hitting powerhouse against the RedsWill Smith’s Status for Dodgers Wild Card Series RevealedDodgers wild card roster: Will Smith returns, no Michael ConfortoDodgers to carry 3 catchers for wild-card series vs. RedsSports IllustratedDodgers Wild Card Roster Revealed: Michael Conforto Out, Will Smith InDodgers Notes: Will Smith Could Make Roster, Roki Sasaki Wild Card Status Revealed, Max Muncy Injury UpdateSports IllustratedDodgers announce probable Wild Card Game 1 starter (and surprising roster exclusion)

Roki Sasaki, the young Japanese pitcher, is expected to contribute to the bullpen after recovering from a shoulder injury. Roberts expressed confidence in Sasaki's abilities, stating, “The way he threw, the big games he's pitched in before, that’s something I can trust.” His inclusion is anticipated to bolster the Dodgers' pitching depth, particularly against right-handed hitters.

Sports Illustrated

Notably absent from the roster is outfielder Michael Conforto, who struggled throughout the season with a .199 batting average. His exclusion reflects the Dodgers' strategy to prioritize speed and defense, opting for players like Justin Dean and Hyeseong Kim, who can provide late-game defensive replacements and pinch-running options. Additionally, pitcher Anthony Banda was left off the roster despite a solid season, as the Dodgers opted for a lighter pitching staff given the short series format.

Big Takeaways From the Dodgers’ Surprising 26-Man Wild Card RosterDodgers wild card roster: Will Smith returns, no Michael ConfortoSports IllustratedDodgers to carry 3 catchers for wild-card series vs. RedsDodgers Wild Card Roster Revealed: Michael Conforto Out, Will Smith InWill Smith’s triumphant return to Dodgers’ Wild Card roster sparks hope as pinch-hitting powerhouse against the RedsDodgers Notes: Will Smith Could Make Roster, Roki Sasaki Wild Card Status Revealed, Max Muncy Injury UpdateDodgers announce probable Wild Card Game 1 starter (and surprising roster exclusion)Max Muncy and Roki Sasaki lead Dodgers’ wild card roster shake-up with Will Smith adding star power

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of these roster decisions, stating, “We’re looking to create a balanced lineup that can excel in both hitting and pitching.” The team aims to leverage its strengths as it prepares for the postseason.

Dodgers Notes: Will Smith Could Make Roster, Roki Sasaki Wild Card Status Revealed, Max Muncy Injury Update

The Dodgers will face the Cincinnati Reds in a best-of-three series, with Game 1 set for September 30 at 6:08 PM PST. The outcome of this series will determine if the Dodgers advance to the National League Division Series, where they hope to continue their pursuit of a championship title.

Newsweek