Dodgers Outline Backup Catcher Rushing's Role for 2026 Season

Manager Dave Roberts emphasizes Rushing's focus on handling pitching staff over offensive production.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are entering the 2026 season with a catching tandem of Will Smith and Dalton Rushing, with Rushing expected to take on a larger backup role after getting his first taste of the majors last year. Manager Dave Roberts outlined the mindset and approach the team wants Rushing to have, emphasizing his focus on handling the pitching staff over offensive production.

Why it matters

Rushing's development as a backup catcher is crucial for the Dodgers, as they look to build a strong pitching staff and maintain their status as contenders in the National League. The team's willingness to be patient with Rushing's growth and focus on his defensive skills over immediate offensive output shows their commitment to developing young talent.

The details

Rushing was called up by the Dodgers last May and appeared in 53 games, enduring some growing pains as he adjusted from playing every day in Triple-A to a more sporadic role in the majors. Roberts acknowledged the difficulty of that transition, saying the team wants Rushing to "simplify things" and not focus solely on his production at the plate. Instead, the Dodgers are more concerned with Rushing's handling of the pitching staff, as they believe that will be the key to his success as a backup catcher.

  • Rushing was called up by the Dodgers last May.
  • Rushing appeared in 53 games for the Dodgers last season.

The players

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dalton Rushing

A backup catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is expected to take on a larger role in the 2026 season.

Will Smith

The starting catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Austin Barnes

A former catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who was suddenly cut by the team last May, leading to Rushing's call-up.

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What they’re saying

“It's not easy. It's hard. That's why I think you've got to simplify things. Not necessarily lower expectations, but understand what are wins and what are not wins.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager (si.com)

“Players are designed to look at production, but when you're not playing every day as a young player who could always use the repetitions, production isn't always just getting hits. But yeah, ideally, you'd love for him to get 500 at-bats this year for him to evolve and catch innings.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager (si.com)

“Dalton's in a good spot right now. I want him to understand his role as a backup catcher. What that entails, really learn the pitchers, learn the swing that works for playing a couple times a week. He's used to playing a lot more. Just kind of still maturing, because it's not easy to not play every day when you're used to that. But I get it.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager (si.com)

What’s next

With Will Smith leaving camp to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, the rest of Spring Training will provide Rushing with an opportunity to find some rhythm by making regular starts and further develop his skills as a backup catcher.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' approach with Rushing demonstrates their commitment to developing young talent and building a strong pitching staff, even if it means sacrificing some offensive production in the short term. As Rushing continues to adapt to his role as a backup catcher, the team's focus on his defensive skills and handling of the pitching staff could pay dividends in the long run.