The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing an injury crisis behind the plate. After losing starting catcher Will Smith to a hand injury earlier in the week, backup catcher Dalton Rushing suffered a leg injury in Friday's series opener against the Baltimore Orioles, leaving the Dodgers dangerously thin at the catching position.
Rushing fouled a ball off his right leg during an at-bat in the sixth inning. While X-rays came back negative, manager Dave Roberts told reporters that Rushing will miss time and could potentially land on the injured list (IL).
This unfortunate turn of events comes shortly after the Dodgers called up Ben Rortvedt to provide catching depth following Smith's injury. Rortvedt, after just two games with the team, is now the Dodgers' starting catcher. The team will now need to scramble to find another backstop to fill the void left by Rushing's injury.
"It almost feels unfair," Roberts said, alluding to the endless stream of injuries the team has dealt with this year, especially with the Dodgers in a tight division race.
Dodgers' Recent Struggles
Adding insult to injury, the Dodgers lost Friday's game to the Orioles 2-1 after Tanner Scott allowed a walk-off home run in the ninth inning. This marks their fourth consecutive loss.
The Dodgers had an opportunity to extend their lead in the NL West, especially with the San Diego Padres losing to the Colorado Rockies. However, the loss means the division race remains tight.
What's Next for the Dodgers?
The Dodgers will need to make a roster move to add another catcher to the active roster. The team is hoping that Will Smith's bone bruise will heal quickly, but there is no timetable for his return. With Rushing also sidelined, the Dodgers' catching situation is a major concern as they continue their push for a playoff spot.
Key Takeaways:
- Dalton Rushing suffered a leg injury and will miss time.
- Will Smith is already sidelined with a hand injury.
- The Dodgers are now extremely thin at catcher.
- The team lost to the Orioles, extending their losing streak to four games.
The Dodgers will look to bounce back and address their injury woes as they continue their series against the Orioles.