BREAKING — When Kevin Kiermaier speaks about defense, leadership, or the heartbeat of a clubhouse, players listen. But this time, he shook MLB with a different type of statement — one that went straight to the heart of the Dodgers’ star-studded empire.
According to the veteran outfielder, the next Dodgers player destined for Cooperstown is not Shohei Ohtani.
Not Mookie Betts.
Not Freddie Freeman.
Not even franchise icon Clayton Kershaw.
It’s their catcher — Will Smith.
Yes, the same Will Smith who has quietly, methodically, and relentlessly become the backbone of Los Angeles baseball. And after his Game 7 heroics — a towering, season-defining homer that shifted the entire series — Kiermaier believes the trajectory is unmistakable.
“He’s already on the Hall of Fame path,” Kiermaier said. “People don’t realize how special he is because the Dodgers are loaded with star power. But Will Smith is the one who keeps everything together.”
It’s a bold take.
A dramatic one.
And, depending on who you ask, a prophetic one.
Smith’s Game 7 performance was the perfect encapsulation of what Kiermaier is talking about — poise in chaos, leadership without theatrics, and production when the season’s breath hangs in the balance. While the spotlight naturally gravitates toward Ohtani’s dual-threat brilliance, Betts’ versatility, or Freeman’s smooth consistency, Smith has been the constant.
The Dodgers internally have known this for years. Coaches rave about his preparation. Pitchers trust him instinctively. Teammates praise his humility and competitive fire. And front-office executives quietly acknowledge that their championship window hinges as much on Smith’s presence as any superstar on the payroll.
The challenge for Smith has always been visibility. Catchers rarely receive national attention unless they’re showmen or defensive wizards. Smith is neither. He is efficient. Technical. Intelligent. Nearly mistake-free. And when needed, clutch beyond belief.
In 2025, he elevated his offensive profile too. His OPS surged. His framing and game-calling ranked among baseball’s best. And his clubhouse influence grew as he stepped deeper into the leadership void left by Kershaw’s aging presence.
So does he really have a Cooperstown path?
Analytically, it’s not far-fetched.
Emotionally, Kiermaier’s statement resonated.
Narratively, it feels like the beginning of something.
Kiermaier’s argument boils down to longevity and impact. “He’s going to catch elite pitching for over a decade,” he said. “He’s going to produce offensively every year. And he’s going to perform in the moments that define careers.”
Game 7 was one of those moments.
That swing — quick, controlled, violent — became a turning point in Dodgers lore. The replay is destined to be stitched into future highlight reels, anniversaries, and Cooperstown discussions, should Kiermaier’s prediction come true.
The Dodgers, unsurprisingly, offered no comment. They don’t need to. Their actions already prove how much value they place on Smith. He’s the central figure in countless game plans, pitcher development strategies, and postseason blueprints.
And now, thanks to Kiermaier’s explosive take, fans are beginning to see him through a new lens.
Will Smith, Hall of Famer?
The conversation has begun.
The momentum is real.
And if Game 7 was the spark, the next decade may be the fire.
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