Young Dodgers Catcher Takes Advantage of Opportunity

TORONTO — This week, young Dodgers player Dalton Rushing got a taste of what it’s like to be a starting catcher for a couple of days.

On Sunday, in the final game of the series in Washington, Rushing had a standout moment—it was in the sixth inning when he launched a two-run homer that played a crucial role in the team’s comeback win.

Then, on Monday night in Toronto, he surprisingly returned to the starting lineup.

This marked just the fourth time in his relatively brief MLB career that Rushing has started consecutive games. Previously, he was regarded as the top hitter for the Dodgers when he was called up last year.

But, getting regular starts isn’t going to be a norm just yet. Rushing’s opportunity on Monday was partly due to manager Dave Roberts wanting to rest starting catcher Will Smith for the upcoming games against pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Shohei Ohtani.

However, this was a significant chance for the 25-year-old who is still adapting to the major leagues.

Rushing made the most of it, going 4-for-4 and reaching base every time up, including being hit by a pitch. He hit two home runs, showcasing an impressive three homers over a span of 48 hours, tying for the early-season lead with his team.

This performance highlighted his natural power—his home runs reached distances of 415 and 413 feet—and it also reflected his improved approach during his second season in the majors, as he only chased two pitches outside the strike zone, both of which resulted in hits.

This hinted at the potential the Dodgers had seen in Rushing, a former second-round draft pick, and reminded everyone that even backup catchers can surprise with their hitting abilities.

Manager Dave Roberts commented on Rushing’s development, noticing how he has simplified his swing. “Sometimes, when you don’t try too hard, big things happen—and that was the case tonight,” Roberts noted.

Yet, adapting to the role hasn’t been easy for Rushing since he made his debut last year.

Unlike many top prospects, he faced a more complex situation, having to adjust to being a backup for an established All-Star like Smith. He recognized how mentally challenging it was last season, where he ended with a .204 batting average, four home runs, and over a third of his at-bats ending in strikeouts.

He reiterated that he doesn’t want to be a backup for his entire career.

“I’m not concerned about being a backup my whole life,” he stated.

What’s different for Rushing now is his attitude towards his limited role. He is eager to learn from every opportunity, saying, “I’m going to take advantage of this time and learn as much as I can from it. Some of the best players started as reserves, so if I perform my role well, I’ll get my shot.”

This message aligns with the guidance Dodgers leadership has offered him this season. According to Roberts, Rushing has “a lot to learn to be an everyday catcher on a championship team.”

Roberts praised Rushing’s talent, stating, “Does he have the ability to be an everyday catcher in the big leagues? Absolutely. But there are mistakes that can’t be overlooked. I believe his at-bats will keep improving.”

Rushing seemed aware that he didn’t stress home runs or stats when asked how he could earn more playtime. “I think just being a professional is key to getting on the field,” he replied.

As it stands, if Rushing’s future lies with the Dodgers, patience will be necessary, given the depth of their established roster.

Will Smith is signed through 2033, making it clear who the starting catcher is. Additionally, first base, another key position behind Rushing, is secured by Freddie Freeman, who plans on playing for three more seasons after this one.

For the moment, Rushing is somewhat blocked within the organization. Last postseason, he was replaced as the backup catcher by Ben Roltvedt, who has since left the team.

This reality hasn’t deterred Rushing; rather, it spurs him on. If he can deliver more performances like Monday night, the Dodgers will certainly have some decisions to contemplate.

“I keep learning every day,” Rushing expressed, “and I hope to be one of those impactful players in a few years.”