Will Smith Aims for Third World Series Ring with Dodgers

<p-LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Louisville native and Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith is back in the World Series, aiming for his third championship ring. Smith, who played at the University of Louisville, has established himself as a top catcher in Major League Baseball since being drafted in 2016.

<p-Smith has previously won two World Series titles and has been named an MLB All-Star three times. His former coach, Dan McDonnell, expressed pride in Smith’s achievements. “It’s not often you have a local kid that plays at your university and is one of the best players in the game,” he said. McDonnell keeps a photo of Smith holding a World Series trophy on his desk.

<p-McDonnell recalled the excitement of watching Smith win a championship last year, humorously noting his lifelong allegiance to the New York Yankees. “I had to remind my brother we couldn’t root for the Yankees that night, Will Smith got us tickets,” he laughed.

<p-Before his fame, Smith showed promise at Kentucky Country Day School. Joe Maione, his former coach, remembered identifying his potential even in second grade. “He just had kind of an electric arm,” Maione said. “He could really throw the ball.” By middle school, Smith was already a varsity starter.

<p-Maione described Smith as a dedicated athlete with a strong work ethic. He recalled the moment Smith sent him a signed jersey upon reaching the big leagues. “Thank you for all you’ve done to help me — wouldn’t have been able to be here without you,” he read from Smith’s note.

<p-Both of his coaches attribute Smith’s success to his steady temperament. “He’s never gonna get too high,” McDonnell remarked. “Never too low, just always that calm demeanor,” Maione added.

<p-Now, a banner at Jim Patterson Stadium celebrates Smith as a “Hometown Hero.” If the Dodgers secure another victory, Smith could soon add a third championship ring to his collection.