Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star catcher Will Smith has been helping backup Dalton Rushing as he tries to break into the Dodgers’ team, per The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya.
Rushing came up to the majors in May 2025, but struggled for consistent playing time throughout the year. Smith came up in a similar situation, having to compete with well established catchers Austin Barnes and Russell Martin when he made his debut in 2019.
“You have to go through the dark to get to the light, I think, sometimes,” Rushing said. “That’s kind of the way I looked at it: I went through my dark last year, and now I’m hoping for light.”
Rushing made 53 appearances last season, hitting four home runs and recording 24 RBIs over the course of the season. He slashed .204/.258/.324 for a .582 OPS, and had an extraordinarily high 37.4% strikeout rate.
The former No. 1 prospect had a brief opportunity to take over as the starter when Smith went down with injury in the final month of the season, but suffered an injury of his own and saw deadline acquisition Ben Rortvedt take over for September and the first few games of the postseason until Smith’s return.
Where Does Dalton Rushing Fit for the Dodgers in 2026?
As far as Rushing’s role goes for 2026, he’ll likely still be Smith’s backup for the season. More opportunities have arisen for the 25-year-old, though, as manager Dave Roberts revealed he could also stand in at first base for Freddie Freeman if the veteran takes a day off or misses time.
“Dalton’s in a good spot right now,” Roberts said. “I want him to understand his role as a backup catcher, what that entails. Really learn the pitchers, learn a swing that works for playing a couple times a week. He’s used to playing a lot more.”
Roberts also said he would not play in the outfield despite playing in left in the minor leagues.
“Outfield is not on the table,” Roberts said. “I do think that there’s going to be some spots for him to come into games if Freddie [Freeman] is out.”
The catcher had a difficult first season in MLB in 2025, and will look to improve and cut out a bigger role for himself as the season plays out.
What do you think Dalton Rushing should do to improve?
