Sun May 18 17:40:00 UTC 2025: **Dodgers Call Up Top Catching Prospect Rushing, Sasaki Hits IL with Shoulder Discomfort**

**Los Angeles, CA -** The Los Angeles Dodgers are bolstering their roster with the highly anticipated debut of catching prospect Dalton Rushing, who is set to catch a bullpen game tonight. While Rushing has seen time at other positions in the minors, the Dodgers plan to keep him primarily at catcher, where he’ll serve as an understudy to veteran Will Smith, catching twice a week and participating in game planning.

Rushing, drafted 40th overall in 2022, boasts a strong .289/.409/.512 batting line in Triple-A, with a keen eye that results in walks over 15% of the time. Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts drew a parallel to Smith’s early MLB exposure, emphasizing the value of assimilating Rushing into the team’s strategy and pitching staff.

However, the Dodgers’ pitching staff faces a setback as right-hander Roki Sasaki lands on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder impingement. The discomfort, which began earlier this month, has noticeably impacted Sasaki’s velocity. His fastball dipped from an average of 96.4 mph to 94.8 mph in his recent starts. While a firm timeline remains unclear, Sasaki is not expected to receive injections and a return to the rotation is expected with Clayton Kershaw returning soon.

In other injury news, Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow are progressing with their throwing programs. While their returns are still weeks away, the news offers a positive outlook for the Dodgers’ pitching depth.

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