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4mo ago

Dodgers Promote Top Prospect Dalton Rushing, End Austin Barnes' Decade-Long Tenure

The Dodgers called up highly regarded catcher Dalton Rushing after his strong Triple-A performance, designating veteran Austin Barnes for assignment to enhance roster versatility and offensive depth.

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 15: Players from Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate after winning the MLB Tokyo Series between Los Angeles Dodgers and Yomiuri Giants at Tokyo Dome on March 15, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 16: Clayton Kershaw #22 and Austin Barnes #15 of the Los Angeles Dodgers talk on the mound during the third inning against the Minnesota Twins at Dodger Stadium on May 16, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.
Dalton Rushing #68 of the Los Angeles Dodgers swings at the ball during a Spring training game against the Kansas City Royals at Camelback Ranch on February 22, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

Overview

  • Dalton Rushing, ranked No. 15 by MLB Pipeline, debuted for the Dodgers on May 15, going 2-for-4 with a walk and impressing both offensively and defensively.
  • The Dodgers designated Austin Barnes for assignment after 11 seasons and two World Series titles, citing declining offensive and defensive contributions.
  • Rushing hit .308 with five home runs and a .424 on-base percentage in 31 Triple-A games this season, earning his promotion as a backup to Will Smith.
  • Manager Dave Roberts plans to have Rushing catch two games per week and contribute as a pinch-hitter, providing needed relief for Smith during a competitive season.
  • The move reflects the Dodgers' strategy of developing homegrown talent while maintaining competitiveness in a tight NL West division race.