Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing Isn’t Worried About Playing Time in First MLB Opportunity
The Los Angeles Dodgers made a shocking move last Wednesday, cutting veteran Austin Barnes after 11 years with the team. In a corresponding move, the top prospect from the last two seasons, catcher Dalton Rushing, was called up and looks to be the heir apparent behind home plate.
Although Rushing’s role — like Barnes’ — is Will Smith’s backup, the move blatantly tells underperforming veterans that there is no room for reminiscing on this roster as a ninth franchise championship is the ultimate priority.
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At 24 years old, Rushing shows immense maturity and a willingness to learn. Luckily for him, he has a clubhouse full of All-Stars and MVPs to soak in as much knowledge as he can.
“You look at who I’m surrounded by, and it’s some of the best baseball players to learn from,” Rushing said via Doug Padilla of the Orange County Register. “And me personally, I think I can take in information very well, so I think it’s going to be very beneficial, regardless of how much playing time. That’s up to me, to show up, play, help the team win.”
This season in Triple-A, Rushing hit .308 with a .938 OPS. His undeniable talent at the plate was getting to a point where it was too good to pass up.
Manager Dave Roberts also spoke on the desire to have that offensive surge in the batting order.
“I just think that for us right now, with what Dalton Rushing is doing on the performance side, it’s an opportunity to challenge him, expand his growth, give him an opportunity to log some major league games and essentially give him some runway.”
There is no greater time than the present, and that mindset was solidified when Barnes was designated for assignment. If Rushing can continue to keep his bat hot and produce when his number is called, this can be the start of something very special for the team’s latest homegrown prospect.
Thus far, Rushing is 4-for-10 with two runs batted in.
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Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
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