Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing provides crucial injury, catching updates

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing is recovering from an elbow injury. With catcher Will Smith injured as well, Los Angeles acquired Ben Rortvedt and Hunter Feduccia to help out at the position at the MLB trade deadline. Some reports have suggested that Rushing — even if he does return as a hitter — may not catch again this season. However, Rushing isn’t closing the door on catching again in 2026, and he is shutting the door on potential elbow surgery this season.

“Dalton Rushing said he’s not going to have surgery now and nothing planned for off season. Strengthening the muscles around UCL now is the plan. Rushing is optimistic he will be able to catch again this season, but won’t know until he starts throwing progression,” David Vassegh reported Tuesday.

It does seem as if Rushing will be able to return as a hitter at some point in 2026. His potential of catching again is uncertain, but there is still clearly a chance. Either way, Los Angeles is looking forward to having his bat available once again.

The 25-year-old has hit .253/.335/.475 across 74 games played in 2026. Rushing has 12 home runs and 12 doubles as well. The Dodgers’ lineup has surprisingly been inconsistent in recent action, so the team could especially benefit from Rushing’s return sooner rather than later.

If Rushing does return as only a hitter and doesn’t catch, he will likely serve as a left-handed option off the bench. He may get a start or two at designated hitter, but Shohei Ohtani is expected to be in the lineup most of the time. Returning as a catcher would lead to more playing time opportunities for Rushing.