UPDATE (May 14, 12 p.m. PT): The Los Angeles Dodgers are going to designate Austin Barnes for assignment in order to promote top prospect Dalton Rushing from Triple-A Oklahoma City.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have amassed an impressive collection of catching depth in their farm system, which is headlined by top prospect Dalton Rushing.
There was some thought Rushing would get called up late in the 2024 season for his MLB debut, and he began playing left field in preparation for a potential opportunity at the big league level. However, that never came to be, and Rushing went into this year with the organization having him focus on catching.
After multiple instances in which the Dodgers recalled other players from Triple-A Oklahoma City, it now appears Rushing’s time has come.
According to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, the Dodgers are going to promote Rushing onto their roster for the first time:
The Dodgers are calling up prized catching prospect Dalton Rushing, sources tell The Athletic.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) May 14, 2025
It’s not yet clear what is prompting Rushing’s promotion from Triple-A. Will Smith had three hits on Tuesday as one of the few bright spots in the Dodgers’ 11-1 loss to the A’s.
Michael Conforto is starting to see results after a prolonged slump, but does have experience in right field. That in turn would move Andy Pages back to center field as the Dodgers await the return of Teoscar Hernández.
Rushing has played nine games (eight starts) at first base this season and two (one start) in left field. He primarily has been the catcher for Oklahoma City and also made some starts as designated hitter.
It’s plausible the Dodgers simply are looking for an offensive boost while Hernández and Tommy Edman are on the injured list. Rushing is conceivably could provide that while also being an option to fill in at catcher, first base or left field.
Rushing will needed to be added to the Dodgers’ 40-man roster as well.
Dalton Rushing’s stats
Through 31 games with Oklahoma City, Rushing is batting .308./.424/.514 with five doubles, five home runs and 17 RBI.
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