Overview
- Rushing was a late scratch for the Sunday game with what reporters described as minor arm irritation, and Eliezer Alfonzo took over behind the plate.
- Alfonzo and fellow backup Chuckie Robinson have produced little offense in recent starts, combining for six hits in 44 at-bats and no walks.
- Rushing had been the Dodgers’ primary catcher since Will Smith was sidelined in early June, with a .235/.335/.475 line, 12 home runs and noted negative defensive framing metrics.
- Manager Dave Roberts said Smith is pain free and progressing through a stepwise return but cautioned he still likely needs several weeks and game reps before catching regularly.
- President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the club is balancing present and future needs at the trade deadline after acquiring Tarik Skubal, and the Dodgers could pursue low-cost, defense-first catching help if needed.