Among the next wave of Los Angeles Dodgers prospects expected to make an impact in the years ahead is Dalton Rushing. He’s seemingly been on a fast track to the Majors since being drafted in the second round in 2022.
Rushing put together a strong showing for Double-A Tulsa last year, batting .270/.378/.512 with 15 doubles, 17 home runs and 59 RBI before earning a promotion to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
It was Rushing’s third promotion in two seasons as he started the 2023 campaign with High-A Great Lakes.
Rushing continued to play at a high level and his power stroke developed further upon reaching Triple-A. He certainly performed well enough to receive a look in the Majors when the rosters expanded in September, but nothing materialized.
Rushing had a slight inkling about making his MLB debut in 2024, but when it didn’t come he continued to put his head down and work. Going forward, Rushing’s plan is to continue improving in order to meet the moment when it eventually comes.
“I had that feeling there for a little bit. But it’s one of those things that you kind of accept. You’re going to get the call when the time is right. You’re going to go up there when they need you most and they’re going to expect you to perform when they do make that call,” Rushing recently said.
“So you don’t ever want to push it or expect something that you’re obviously not in control of. My biggest thing recently is just show that I’m ready with every opportunity that’s been put in front of me, and when that day comes, show up here ready as well,” Rushing said.
Rushing’s biggest obstacle at the moment is that he plays the same position as Will Smith, who the Dodgers signed to a long-term contract extension last year. In an effort to alleviate that issue, the Dodgers had Rushing begin playing left field with plenty of regularity for Oklahoma City.
However, he is still viewed as a catcher in the organization’s long-term plans. In the short term, Rushing could earn himself a spot on the Opening Day roster with a good performance in Spring Training.
Dodgers believe in Dalton Rushing’s bat
Regardless of what position Rushing ends up playing in the present and future, the Dodgers are big believers of his ability to produce offensively and will find a spot for him in the lineup if he continues to hit well in the Minors.
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