Dodgers' Dalton Rushing Embraces Backup Role, Learns from All-Star Catcher Smith

Rushing shines in limited playing time, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts affirms Will Smith as the starting catcher.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:14pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the movements and actions of a baseball catcher, with sharp planes of muted green, brown, and gray tones conveying the conceptual challenges of Rushing's backup role.A cubist interpretation of a catcher's movements, reflecting the mental and physical challenges of Rushing's role as a backup to the Dodgers' All-Star starter.Los Angeles Today

Dodgers prospect Dalton Rushing is making the most of his limited playing time behind All-Star catcher Will Smith. Rushing had a standout game on Monday, going 4-for-4 with two home runs, but was back on the bench the next day. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Rushing will get around two starts per week this season as he continues to develop and learn from Smith, who is signed through 2033.

Why it matters

Rushing, the top prospect in the Dodgers' system last year, is navigating the challenge of being a backup catcher for a championship-caliber team. While he has the talent to be an everyday starter, the Dodgers are committed to Smith and want Rushing to use this time to improve his all-around game and preparation as he waits for his opportunity.

The details

Rushing, 25, said he struggled mentally last year in his backup role, but has a better understanding this season. He's made swing changes to be more consistent when playing time is sporadic. Roberts praised Rushing's talent but said he has 'a lot to learn' to be an everyday catcher, citing areas like game-planning, relationships with pitchers, and limiting mistakes that the Dodgers can't afford. Rushing is embracing the chance to learn from Smith, a perennial All-Star.

  • Rushing had a 4-for-4 game with two home runs on Monday, April 6, 2026.
  • Rushing was back on the bench on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

The players

Dalton Rushing

A 25-year-old catcher who is the top prospect in the Dodgers' system and is learning to adapt to a backup role behind All-Star Will Smith.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who says Rushing will get around two starts per week this season as he continues to develop.

Will Smith

The Dodgers' starting catcher, a perennial All-Star who is signed through the 2033 season.

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What they’re saying

“I plan on playing him this year. I plan on giving Will (Smith) ample rest. But make no mistake who our starting catcher is.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

“Last year, mentally, I was in a tough spot playing the role that I was, and just kind of trying to figure out how you play that role. And this year, I have a little better understanding.”

— Dalton Rushing, Dodgers Catcher

“It's not easy. But he's got a lot to learn. He's got a lot to learn to be an everyday catcher for a championship team.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

The takeaway

Rushing's development as a backup catcher behind an All-Star like Smith shows the Dodgers' commitment to cultivating young talent and building a championship-caliber roster, even if it means Rushing has to bide his time and learn from the best before getting his own opportunity to shine.