Los Angeles Dodgers backup catcher Dalton Rushing made back-to-back starts in LA’s last two games, and made the most of the atypical occasion.
In the first of two starts on Sunday, Rushing hit his first home run of the season and kickstarted a Dodgers comeback against the Washington Nationals. In the second game Monday against the Toronto Blue Jays, Rushing recorded his first four-hit game and had two home runs as the Dodgers routed their opponents.
Despite a clear lack of game time behind All-Star catcher Will Smith, Rushing is clearly adjusting to the role manager Dave Roberts has spoken about him embracing all offseason.
“Last year, mentally, I was in a tough spot playing the role that I was, and just kind of trying to figure out how you play that role,” Rushing said. “And this year, I have a little better understanding.
“You’re not going to show up and have a game like that tonight. You’re not going to show up and get two hits every game, whether you’re playing every day or you’re playing every three days. … Maybe it was just a pill I had to swallow a little bit.”
Rushing has a hit in all three of his appearances this season, and is now tied for the team lead in home runs despite only playing three games so far.
Apr 6, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing (68) hits a home run and celebrates with shortstop Hyeseong Kim (6) against the Toronto Blue Jays during the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn ImagesWhat Role Did Dave Roberts Want Dalton Rushing to Take on?
Throughout spring training, Roberts repeatedly stated Rushing would be the backup catcher, and that he’d have to get used to it in order to improve and thrive at the top level.
“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.
“Just still maturing. It’s not easy to not play every day when you’re used to that. I think that he grew last year and I like where he’s at right now. …Ideally you’re looking for him to get 500 at-bats this year to continue to evolve and catch innings, but looking at the depth chart, I think you’d still choose to be a major league player.”
It seems he’s done just that, as Roberts said he’s seen “improvement” from the former No. 1 prospect in the organization.
“The conversations he’s had with the coaches is better,” Roberts said. “The emotion spikes are less. Even in-game, you have a couple bad at-bats, but you still focus on getting your pitcher through the game, that’s growth. … This is his lot right now, as far as role, and he’s adjusting. It’s not an easy adjustment but I do see some improvement there from Dalton.”
Rushing will move back to the bench for the Dodgers’ second game against the Blue Jays, as starter Will Smith is likely well rested after a full day’s rest following a brief cameo in their win over the Nationals. First pitch for the second hame of the series comes Tuesday at 4:05 p.m. PT.
LA Baseball Report
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