What happened: Dalton Rushing was removed from Sunday evening’s lineup because of minor arm irritation. The late change came with Will Smith sidelined by neck inflammation since June 5.
Why it matters: Dave Roberts does not expect Smith back for at least three or four weeks, leaving Los Angeles thin behind the plate. Monday’s 3 p.m. PT trade deadline gives the Dodgers little time to add catching depth.
By the numbers: Rushing has started 34 of the Dodgers’ 48 games behind the plate since Smith last played, batting .235/.335/.475 with 12 home runs and a 123 wRC+. Eliezer Alfonzo and Chuckie Robinson have combined for six hits in 44 at-bats, with two doubles and no walks.
What to watch: Rushing’s availability and any Dodgers move for a catcher before Monday’s deadline are the immediate checkpoints.