Dodgers Face Challenges with Injuries to Key Players
The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed catcher Dalton Rushing on the injured list due to discomfort in his right elbow. This decision was made on Sunday, before their game against the Washington Nationals. The team is trying to delay making a similar decision regarding Shohei Ohtani, who remains out of the lineup.
Rushing’s Injury Setback
Rushing was placed on the injured list retroactive to September 5. In his absence, the Dodgers called up catcher Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. from the minors for Sunday’s series finale. Rushing had just recently returned from a previous elbow injury without a rehab assignment. Although not cleared to catch, he was expected to contribute as a left-handed bat off the bench while progressing with his throwing.
Unfortunately, after only five plate appearances, Rushing experienced discomfort again. He went 0 for 4 with three strikeouts and was hit by a pitch before feeling pain in his elbow during Saturday’s pre-game warm-up. This led to his removal from the lineup just before the game began.
“He was doing some early throwing today, and it just kind of flared up,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts on Saturday. “I think we’ll kind of put a pin in throwing for now … I still believe that hitting is on the table. We’ll just see how it feels tomorrow.”
Previously diagnosed with a slightly torn ulnar collateral ligament, Rushing had been restricted from throwing for four to six weeks. He was allowed to continue batting, but his latest setback further delays his return.
Ongoing Issues with Ohtani
The timing is challenging for the Dodgers, who are already dealing with uncertainties regarding Ohtani. Entering Sunday’s game, he has missed four consecutive games. While Ohtani continues to recover from multiple injuries, the team has not placed him on the injured list as they did with Rushing. Manager Dave Roberts expressed hope to have Ohtani as a designated hitter soon.
Without Rushing and Ohtani, the Dodgers faced a difficult task as they aimed to complete a series sweep against the Nationals. Will Smith was scheduled to play at catcher, with Alfonzo available for support.
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