Will Smith praised Hunter Feduccia on September 16, 2026, for stepping up for the Los Angeles Dodgers while Smith was away and after Rushing went down.
“With rushing going down, obviously someone to step up and he's stepped up big,” Smith said. He added that Feduccia was “helping lead the pitchers, getting some hits here and there,” a claim that reflected Feduccia’s contributions for the Dodgers.
Smith stated that he had “just gone through kind of whatever I needed to do to get back out there and help you guys win.” He also noted, “I don't think I would have missed it,” describing his determination to return and be with the team.
Feduccia explained that Smith helped him learn opposing pitchers quickly after his call-up: “When I get called up, you know, helps me out, learn the pictures quick.” Feduccia also described Smith’s support before and during the season, including during spring training and after Feduccia was called up, saying, “He's been super helpful.”
Feduccia added that he brought water and towels for Smith on the bench, joking, “He was doing everything in his power to make sure he didn't go in that game today.” Smith’s stated objective remained returning to help the Los Angeles Dodgers win.