The Los Angeles Dodgers are enduring a rough start to their road trip as Kyle Tucker was removed in the second inning because of lower back spasms, and Dalton Rushing exited in the third.
Rushing has become the Dodgers’ starting catcher in the wake of Will Smith suffering from a neck injury since the beginning of June. Smith initially played through some discomfort before going on the injured list June 11, and he recently received a cortisone injection.
Dalton Rushing’s injury
The Dodgers announced Rushing’s early removal in the series opener against the Minnesota Twins was in order to be evaluated for a concussion. That’s related to taking a foul tip off the face mask on Will Klein’s first pitch of the game. Klein started as an opener before the Dodgers turned to Eric Lauer in the second inning.
Rushing popped out in his only at-bat of the game. He was replaced by Chuckie Robinson to start the bottom of the third inning.
Robinson joined the Dodgers roster as the corresponding move to Smith landing on the injured list. Monday’s game is Robinson’s fourth this season, but his first time appearing off the bench.
Alex Call is the emergency option if the Dodgers find themselves in need of a third catcher at some point Monday night.
What’s next for Dalton Rushing, Dodgers?
If Rushing needs to go on the injured list, the Dodgers would likely need to call up Eliezer Alfonzo or Griffin Lockwood-Powell from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Neither of whom is currently on their 40-man roster.
Another option could be for L.A. to scour the free agent market and sign a veteran catcher who is not currently with a team or Minor League affiliate.
Smith did not travel with the Dodgers and isn’t expected to return until the start of their next homestand at the earliest. That likely will not take place without Smith first completing a rehab assignment given the amount of time he’s already missed.
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