If the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to make it to October, everyone will have to fill their role. Thirty or so games in, most are doing their job thus far. One notable example of someone coming into his own in 2026 is Dalton Rushing. The reserve catcher/first baseman is finally getting a long look at the big league level. How well is he doing? Here is a brief look.
Former Top Prospect is Flourishing In His Role With the Dodgers
A Backward Glance?
The top prospect was tearing the cover off the ball in the minors before his promotion last year. However, the catching position was full, so the youngster was playing left field and third base in case of an injury in the majors. Things changed drastically when Austin Barnes was designated for assignment last season. Still, Rushing struggled to adjust to big league life. He had few opportunities to produce at the plate. But the Dodgers remained patient and told the rookie to focus on handling the pitching staff rather than his batting average, which struggled to get above .200. Then he fouled a ball off his shin, further disrupting his development. Finally, he was catching the eye of other teams who were interested in trading for him. After all, how would he get his at-bats behind Will Smith? Nevertheless, Los Angeles was adamant about keeping him.
A New Beginning
Coming into Spring Training, it was clear that Rushing was the designated reserve backstop, and Manager Dave Roberts said that he would also spell Freddie Freeman at first base. The hope is to keep everybody fresh this season. So far, it’s worked like a charm. The career .239 hitter is hitting for a cool 348 batting average. But it doesn’t stop there. Rushing has hit seven home runs in his first 27 at-bats, including a multi-homer game in Colorado. The only player to hit more dingers faster? Barry Bonds. Yeah, that Barry Bonds. Rushing has 17 runs batted in to boot. His OPS is near the top in all of baseball. His production has been so impressive that the young catcher replaced Shohei Ohtani as designated hitter when the National League’s Most Valuable Player took his latest turn on the mound.
“It’s a little fishy.”
Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing couldn’t figure out how the Rockies were connecting on so many first-pitch swings pic.twitter.com/X7E4gCqFgr
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) April 19, 2026
Mr. Dependable
It is safe to say that the Dodgers are not shy about playing him. Is Will Smith’s back acting up? Insert Dalton Rushing. Freddie Freeman on paternity leave? Give the youngster a chance. Rushing has served as a spark plug at the bottom of the order when given the chance. The homer caught everyone’s attention, but he had the clutch single to right field against Miami to tie the game briefly. He also drew a walk to sustain a ninth-inning rally. Rushing’s unexpected production has come at an opportune time, considering the top third of the Los Angeles lineup has struggled early in the season in pivotal situations.
It would not be realistic for the young catcher to remain this hot all season. However, Rushing is making the most of the opportunity that has awaited him. The Dodgers are hoping the hot streak lasts as long as possible.
Main Photo Credits: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
