Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing could be forcing a roster dilemma

If there is any team in baseball that currently qualifies as a dynasty, the Los Angeles Dodgers quite easily fit that definition. 

The Dodgers have been to the World Series five times since 2017, winning the Fall Classic three times since 2020, and currently have a streak of two consecutive championship victories. If we zoom out, we notice they haven’t missed the postseason since 2012. This year, the Dodgers are looking to add a third consecutive trophy to the case — and they have a team that is more than capable of doing just that.

Over the offseason, the Dodgers added Kyle Tucker to their star-studded lineup that features three MVPs (including Mookie Betts, who is currently on the IL) and a supporting cast of players who offer a similar upside. Now, the Dodgers may have another star on their hands.

In 2025, catcher Dalton Rushing made his debut as the Dodgers' No. 2 prospect, hitting four home runs in 142 at-bats. This year, he has tallied five home runs in just 22 at-bats, boasting a batting average of .455 with an on-base percentage of .478 and 10 RBI.

It is still very early in the year, but Rushing is flashing serious potential. If he keeps producing at an All-Star level, he could force his way into an everyday role, but therein lies the question: Whose position could he take?

Dalton Rushing is battling for a roster spot against veteran stars 

Rushing originally came up as a catcher-left fielder combo, but has only played catcher, first base and DH in the Majors. The DH and first base positions are occupied by Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman (currently on paternity leave). That is not likely to change until Freeman hits free agency after the 2027 season.

Will Smith, the heroic Dodgers backstop, is under contract through 2033 and is a mainstay of the batting order. Left fielder and postseason masher Teoscar Hernandez is under contract through 2027 with a club option for 2028.

All four of these players have been instrumental to the team’s recent success. And while neither Ohtani nor Freeman appear to be movable, it would take a real star to displace Smith or Hernandez. As a result, Rushing only occasionally finds his way into the starting lineup.

As things stand, Rushing currently has the best numbers on the team. However, with only a sample size of data points, the Dodgers won’t be too quick to thrust Rushing into a permanent role. But the question still lingers: Where does he fit? Will he be used as a platoon bat? Do they trade him for a player they could use? Do they trade one of their other stars to make room for him? Do they squeeze him into a position he is unfamiliar with?

Already showcasing immense potential in his second year, Rushing seems to be forcing a difficult decision from Dodgers management. It’s certainly a good problem for Los Angeles, and while nothing is imminent, it does appear a dilemma is inevitable. If he continues to perform at the highest level, it would be unthinkable for the Dodgers to keep him on the bench until a permanent opening arises.