Home/Articles/MLB
MLB·INJURY·August 2, 2026 08:36 PM ET

Rushing scratch deepens Dodgers’ catching squeeze before deadline

Alfonzo batted ninth against Boston.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 31 min read
Post on X

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.

Sources

More on Dalton Rushing

CONVERSATION
Loading comments…
MLBInjuryLos Angeles DodgersBoston Red SoxDalton RushingWill Smith
Follow MLB Intelligence
Real-time signals and analysis
@WireReportMLB
WR Pro
The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.
$9/monthFree weekly newsletter →
RELATED STORIES
← Back to Wire Report