Dodgers Catcher Dalton Rushing Targets September Return, Eyes Playoff Push

Dalton Rushing, the Los Angeles Dodgers catcher, said on August 21 that he plans to return to catching in September after suffering a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow on August 3. Manager Dave Roberts had initially called the odds of Rushing catching again this season “very small,” but Rushing is now progressing through his rehabilitation and will begin throwing soon. His return could open a roster spot and give the Dodgers two healthy top-tier catchers heading into the playoffs.

From Pessimism to September Target

Rushing was placed on the injured list August 3 after an MRI revealed a partial UCL tear. Roberts said on August 5 that he believed the chances of Rushing catching this season were “very small” and suggested Rushing might return only as a left-handed pinch hitter. Two weeks later, Rushing told Dodgers Beat on August 21 that he is “progressing well” and plans to be “on the field in September catching again.” He has already resumed hitting and is taking bullpen sessions. His throwing progression will begin soon.

How Rushing’s Return Strengthens the Roster

Rushing’s catching return would let the Dodgers drop from three catchers to two, freeing up one roster spot for September playoff preparation. Local media noted this represents a “major turning point” for the team. Rushing is a left-handed hitter who complements the calm, right-handed Will Smith. Both are superior hitters to current backup catchers Hunter Feduccia and Ben Rortvedt.

Will Smith Also Nearing Return

Will Smith, the Dodgers’ primary catcher, is recovering from a neck injury and is expected to begin a minor-league rehab assignment as soon as next week. Roberts said on August 17 that Smith would take multiple live batting practice sessions that week and could start rehab the following week. If both catchers return healthy by late September, the Dodgers will enter the postseason with their full catching depth.

Playoff Implications

The Dodgers hold a nine-game lead in the NL West with 34 games remaining in the regular season. Having Rushing and Smith both available in October would address one of the team’s key injury concerns heading into the postseason. Rushing’s personal goal is explicit: “get ready to win some baseball games in October.”

Final Thoughts

Rushing’s September catching target contradicts Roberts’ earlier pessimism but reflects genuine rehabilitation progress. If both Rushing and Smith return healthy, the Dodgers gain a critical roster advantage and a full catching platoon for the playoffs.

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