Even though the Los Angeles Dodgers appear on track to secure another National League West crown, not every player has thrived this season. Amid Shohei Ohtani’s MVP-level performance, Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s emergence as a frontline starter, and Andy Pages’ breakout, a handful of rostered players have struggled to meet expectations. One of the most notable cases is rookie catcher Dalton Rushing.
A Rookie in a Crowded Lineup
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Rushing entered the season as one of the Dodgers’ top prospects, called up to back up star catcher Will Smith. However, Smith’s commanding presence on a 10-year, $300 million contract, combined with Ben Rortvedt’s rise, has limited Rushing’s opportunities to play regularly.
“In total, Rushing has only hit .189 in 122 at-bats this year,” wrote Henry Palattella of FanSided. “It’s not the kind of production the Dodgers expected from him this season, but it’s hard to expect him to be a productive major leaguer when he’s getting sporadic at-bats.”
Rushing received a brief run of everyday at-bats in August when Smith was sidelined with a hand injury, but Rushing himself soon landed on the injured list with a shin issue, further complicating his development. Though he returned earlier this week, it’s clear that a long-term path as the primary catcher remains blocked.
Dodgers Trade Rumors: Trade Value Despite Struggles
Even with a rough rookie season, Rushing retains value around the league. Palattella noted that he “garnered some interest from other teams at this year’s trade deadline, and it’s hard to imagine it’ll be any different during the offseason.” With Rortvedt hitting .270 and under contract through 2027, the Dodgers have a viable option to fill the backup role without relying on Rushing.
Keeping Rushing as a backup could diminish his trade value, and the organization is unlikely to waste a roster spot when he could be moved for a prospect who fills a more immediate need. In essence, a trade might allow Rushing to develop into a regular starter elsewhere, while the Dodgers benefit from acquiring additional assets.
Looking Ahead
Rushing’s first season has been a learning experience, but the combination of limited playing time, sporadic at-bats, and the presence of established catchers makes a long-term role in Los Angeles improbable. The Dodgers are focused on the postseason now, yet decisions like this will shape the offseason and potentially set the stage for another wave of young talent to step up in 2026.
“Many teams would be willing to trade for a young catcher with potential,” Palattella concluded, “a move that yields the Dodgers a prospect for a player they do not necessarily need.”