Dalton Rushing ‘Most Likely’ Catching Shohei Ohtani’s Next Start

The battery of Shohei Ohtani and Dalton Rushing were not on the same page in the series finale against the Minnesota Twins, but the Los Angeles Dodgers will not be making any changes going forward.

Ohtani’s next start on the mound will likely feature Rushing back behind the plate, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Friday that Shohei Ohtani’s next pitching start will “most likely” have Dalton Rushing catching him, even after the two parties were visibly and virally not on the same page during Ohtani’s start Wednesday night against the Minnesota Twins.

On two occasions against the Twins, Rushing disagreed with Ohtani’s judgment on ABS challenges. In a separate incident, the second-year catcher was visibly frustrated with Ohtani after a crossed-up pitch call that resulted in a passed ball and run scored.

Freddie Freeman, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and pitching coach Mark Prior were shown on the SportsNet LA broadcast speaking with Rushing in the dugout. There were continued talks leading into the weekend series against the San Diego Padres but Roberts otherwise downplayed any concern.

Following the game, Rushing took responsibility for each individual incident and vowed to be better.

The 25-year-old has served as the Dodgers’ primary catcher since June 6, as Will Smith has been inactive due to neck inflammation. L.A. initially expected Smith to miss just one game upon getting scratched from the lineup because of neck stiffness, but his absence has reached three weeks.

The Dodgers administered a cortisone injection for the lingering discomfort, but the 31-year-old had not yet resumed baseball activities as of June 24. There is currently no timeline for Smith’s return.

The eight-year veteran caught all 10 of Ohtani’s starts before being sidelined by the injury.

The Japanese right-hander has struggled since Rushing took over behind the plate, but there are other factors at play besides the change in backstops. Last season, Ohtani had a 0.61 ERA in the five starts caught by Rushing.

Dalton Rushing embarrassed by situation with Shohei Ohtani

Rushing appreciated the support provided to him by his coaches and teammates against the Twins, but admitted it was an embarrassing situation for him.

Not only did he not have a good showing on both sides of the ball during the game, but also because his conduct warranted an in-game discussion.