As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for the final stretch of the 2026 MLB season, they have made notable roster adjustments, particularly in their catching lineup. On June 7, the Dodgers activated two catchers, including Dalton Rushing, who recently recovered from a partially torn UCL, and infielder Alex Freeland, while opting not to call up an outfielder despite their struggling performance.
Freeland is set to play second base against the St. Louis Cardinals, with Tommy Edman shifting to center field. This decision comes after Alek Thomas was optioned to Triple-A, indicating a strategic move to bolster the infield while the outfield remains a concern. Manager Dave Roberts has stated that the team is placing its confidence in Teoscar Hernández to improve his performance, as discussions about platooning him have been temporarily set aside.
Roberts emphasized the team's faith in Hernández, saying, "We didn’t bring up an outfielder. That’s part of the bet on Teo, that he can right the ship. That’s kind of where we’re at." This reflects the organization’s belief in Hernández's ability to return to form, particularly as he has struggled this season alongside teammate Kyle Tucker, both of whom have fallen below average in offensive production.
In terms of statistics, Dodgers' right fielders rank 20th in Major League Baseball with a FanGraphs WAR of 0.7, and their left fielders are not faring much better, holding the 22nd position with a WAR of 1.2. Hernández's performance against left-handed pitchers has been relatively strong, boasting a .273 batting average and a 123 wRC+, but he has struggled against right-handers, hitting only .239 with an 85 wRC+. The Dodgers are banking on the 33-year-old to regain his previous form, especially considering his postseason success over the last two years.
Roberts acknowledged the importance of experience in high-pressure situations, stating, "I do tend to give guys more leash, given what they’ve done, and looking at how they can handle a big moment in the postseason, that’s important." He also noted that as the season progresses, the intensity will increase, putting more pressure on players to perform.
Meanwhile, the catching situation is evolving as Will Smith is expected to start in both Tuesday and Thursday games against the Cardinals, while Hunter Feduccia will take the mound on Wednesday. Rushing, who is still in rehabilitation, is unlikely to catch again this season but is being prepared to serve as a left-handed bat off the bench. Roberts has described Rushing's potential pinch-hitting role as a "three-person move," indicating a strategy where Rushing would bat and then be substituted defensively.
Despite Rushing's limited experience as a pinch-hitter, with only two singles in 14 at-bats and a single pinch-hit appearance in the minors, Roberts remains optimistic about his potential impact, stating, "He can hit the ball out of the ballpark... I think there’s something to that threat." In a related move, Ben Rortvedt was designated for assignment to make room for Smith's return, with Roberts expressing gratitude for Rortvedt's contributions to the team.
Leave a Comment