The Los Angeles Dodgers' confidence in second-year catcher Dalton Rushing will be revealed at the Aug. 3 trade deadline, despite public assurances. The team has relied on Rushing as an interim starter for nearly two months due to a lingering neck injury to three-time All-Star Will Smith.
Smith has been sidelined since early June, and while his return is anticipated this season, his availability by the trade deadline remains unclear. This situation compels the Dodgers' front office to consider acquiring another catcher to bolster their depth.
Rushing, a former top prospect, has been in an important developmental phase during his time as Smith's replacement. The 25-year-old slugger experienced a hot start to the season, followed by a slump that led to visible frustration. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged Rushing's learning curve, noting that "this is going to be good for him."
Recently, Rushing faced an 0-for-19 stretch that spanned over two weeks. However, he demonstrated growth by handling the slump with more composure than in previous instances. This resilience was followed by a strong performance against the Philadelphia Phillies, where he hit a solo home run and a go-ahead two-run double.
"It's pretty obvious I've been fighting recently," Rushing said after the game. "The more you try in this game to get out of a hole, the deeper you dig yourself in a hole. So I think that's what it's been recently. So I wouldn't say it was anything different. I just trusted myself today."
Beyond his offensive contributions, Rushing has also been building trust behind the plate. Since a public incident in June, his pitch-calling and in-game communication with the pitching staff have reportedly improved. Rookie backup catcher Eliezer Alfonzo has also cited Rushing as a valuable resource during his transition to the major leagues.
Rushing has adopted a "catching-first" mindset, stating, "Essentially, what I do is just a bonus with the bat. If I can give us a chance to win every night [while working with the pitchers behind the plate] — essentially, that's all they ask of me."
Despite Rushing's .230 batting average since Smith's injury, which includes four home runs and 15 RBIs, the Dodgers have maintained a strong record, going 19-9 in his last 28 starts. This performance has diminished the apparent urgency for the team to seek significant upgrades at the catcher position before the trade deadline.
Barring any further setbacks for Smith, the Dodgers are expected to bypass the market's top catching prospects and place their faith in Rushing as their primary backup plan. Rushing expressed his commitment to proving his readiness for the opportunity, stating, "By no means do I want to say I wished for this opportunity. But I was making sure if it was given, that I was going to do my best to show them that I could play, show them I'm going to be in this league and play down here for as long as I possibly can."