Having a quality catcher on the roster is one of the most valuable things an organization can possess. The Los Angeles Dodgers are already in a good spot with Will Smith under contract until 2033, and they also have Dalton Rushing available when needed.
Catcher is arguably the most difficult position in baseball from a mental, technical and physical standpoint. Players are expected to excel at fielding, blocking, framing and throwing out runners, all while playing the most physically demanding position on the field.
It’s no wonder that catchers who can also contribute at a high level offensively are worth their weight in gold for MLB organizations. The Dodgers recognized seemingly recognized that and signed Smith a 10-year, $140 million contract extension last year.
The mental aspect of catching, game-planning and calling a game alongside a pitcher, often doesn’t get enough attention as it should. It’s one of the most important skills a prospect learns, as there is sizable learning curve even from the Minors to the Majors.
That is an area of growth the Dodgers believe Rushing made strides in after introducing new concepts to him during Spring Training, per Jack Harris of the L.A. Times:
“He’s handled it pretty well,” added bench coach Danny Lehmann, a key part of the Dodgers’ game-planning department. “I think he’s been exposed to some things that he wasn’t in the minor leagues that he’s appreciative of. I think it’s the same deal with the game-planning and the catching and the speed of the game and all that. That’s always gonna be a learning curve there. So I think he’s really working on that.”
Ranked as the Dodgers’ No. 2 prospect heading into the 2025 season, Rushing is still viewed as a catcher by the organization despite Smith currently occupying that spot for the foreseeable future.
Rushing’s role expanded as he progressed in the Dodgers farm system, with some reps at first base and left field. He exclusively played left field when he was called up to Triple-A Oklahoma City at the end of last season.
The Dodgers had Rushing focus on catching and parted with longtime backup Austin Barnes during the year in order to make a change.
Dalton Rushing patiently waited for MLB Debut
There was a small possibility of Rushing making his MLB debut in 2024, but when it didn’t come, he continued to put his head down and work. Despite the letdown, Rushing’s plan allowed for him to influence the Dodgers’ decision this year.
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