The Dodgers are bringing back a familiar face behind the plate, signing catcher Chuckie Robinson to a minor league deal as they continue to round out their depth heading into 2026.
Robinson, 31, spent most of the 2025 season within the Dodgers’ system after being claimed off waivers from the Angels in late May. While his time in the big leagues with L.A. was brief-just a single at-bat in September-his presence came during a moment of need. Injuries to both Will Smith and promising young backstop Dalton Rushing left the Dodgers scrambling for catching support, and Robinson stepped in as Ben Rortvedt’s backup during that stretch.
Though he didn’t get much of a chance to showcase his skills at the major league level, Robinson was a steady contributor in Triple-A. With Oklahoma City, he posted a .254/.337/.348 slash line across 51 games, adding four home runs and 30 RBIs. Earlier in the season, before joining the Dodgers, he’d put together a solid stint with the Angels’ Triple-A affiliate in Salt Lake, hitting .272 with a .703 OPS in 27 games.
Robinson’s journey through 2025 was a winding one. After being acquired by the Angels from the White Sox in December 2024, he bounced between organizations, eventually landing in Atlanta following his brief call-up with the Dodgers. However, he didn’t see any action with the Braves at any level before hitting free agency again.
This latest deal gives Robinson another shot to stay in the fold with a team that clearly values his experience and reliability. He’s expected to open the 2026 season with the Triple-A Comets, where he'll continue to serve as a veteran presence and emergency option should injuries strike again. With Smith and Rushing firmly entrenched at the top of the depth chart, Robinson remains a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option-but one the Dodgers know they can trust.
Looking back, Robinson has had limited major league experience, with stints in 2022 and 2024. He made 25 appearances for the Reds in 2022, hitting two home runs and driving in five runs despite a .407 OPS. In 2024, he suited up for the White Sox in 26 games, finishing with a .326 OPS.
Robinson’s role may not be flashy, but in a long season where depth is everything, having a steady, experienced hand like his in the system can make all the difference when the unexpected happens.