The Los Angeles Dodgers, already a powerhouse in the National League West, are set to receive a significant offensive boost with the anticipated call-up of Dalton Rushing, one of their top prospects, as MLB rosters expand on September 1st.
Rushing, a highly-rated prospect, has been tearing up the minor leagues, batting .308 with five home runs and 15 RBIs in just 22 games since his promotion to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Despite being a career catcher, Rushing has recently transitioned to left field, a move designed to expedite his development and get his bat into the lineup. His recent performance, including a two-homer, five-RBI game earlier this week, has made a strong case for his promotion.
In 99 games this season, including 77 at Double-A Tulsa, the 23-year-old left-handed slugger has hit 22 home runs, driven in 74 runs, and maintained a .279 batting average. His defense in left field has also been solid, with just one error in 33 chances.
The Dodgers’ decision to invest heavily in Rushing, offering him a $1.96 million signing bonus as their first pick in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft, reflects their belief in his talent. Billy Gasparino, the Dodgers’ vice president of amateur scouting, praised Rushing’s strength, athleticism, and power-hitting ability, noting that his athleticism could allow him to play multiple positions, despite their initial focus on him as a catcher.
This move to left field is not a reflection of Rushing’s abilities behind the plate, but rather a strategic decision given the Dodgers’ depth at catcher. Will Smith, one of the best catchers in the league, currently holds the starting position, and Diego Cartaya, another highly-touted prospect, is also in the system. This depth has allowed the Dodgers to explore other ways to utilize Rushing’s bat, leading to his transition to the outfield.
Rushing’s call-up would continue a trend of Louisville Cardinals standouts making their mark with the Dodgers. Recent first-round picks from Louisville, including catcher Will Smith and pitcher Bobby Miller, have already become key contributors to the team.
Rushing’s journey to the majors mirrors that of several other catchers who successfully transitioned to the outfield to prolong their careers. Notable examples include Dale Murphy, who became an NL MVP and Gold Glove center fielder after starting as a catcher, and Raul Ibanez, who transitioned from catcher in the minors to a successful 19-year career as an outfielder.
With Rushing’s promotion, the Dodgers are adding another potent bat to an already formidable lineup, bolstering their chances as they aim for another deep playoff run.
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