The Los Angeles Dodgers made a significant roster move on Wednesday, calling up top prospect Dalton Rushing, a 24-year-old catcher who’s been one of the organization’s most talked-about young talents over the past two seasons.
In a corresponding move, longtime backup Austin Barnes was designated for assignment — a notable shift that raised immediate questions about where Rushing might fit into the lineup. Though he has some experience in the outfield, manager Dave Roberts made it clear: Rushing will debut as a catcher and remain behind the plate for the foreseeable future.
Los Angeles Dodgers Clarify Dalton Rushing’s Early Role
“He’s going to get his first career start Thursday, and that’s where we see him defensively,” Roberts confirmed. “He’ll also be a left-handed option off the bench.”
This isn’t just a nod to youth — Rushing has been tearing up Triple-A. In 31 games this season, he’s slashed .308/.424/.514 with a .938 OPS, along with five home runs, 17 RBIs, and 21 walks. His bat has long been a bright spot, including a .271 average last year and a blistering 1.108 OPS in August.
Rushing joins a list of recent homegrown Dodgers asked to make the leap — and fast. His combination of patience, power, and maturity at the plate suggests he may be ready.
With the Dodgers going 5-5 over their last 10 games and dealing with injuries to key offensive pieces like Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernández, Rushing’s arrival could provide a timely spark. He’ll serve as Will Smith’s understudy, expected to start roughly twice a week and be used strategically in pinch-hit spots.
The Dodgers seem to want to ease Rushing into the majors rather than thrusting him into the bright lights. Not only are Edman and Hernandez out, but Max Muncy and Michael Conforto are struggling at the plate, both with averages below .200.
Roberts acknowledged the challenge of limited at-bats but emphasized the long-term benefit: “Getting him up now allows him to begin working with the staff and growing into this environment, rather than waiting until later in the year.”