Dodgers Catcher Dalton Rushing Undergoes Elbow Surgery After Injury-Plagued Season
- Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing underwent surgery on Oct.
- Rushing initially landed on the injured list in early August after suffering a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament.
- According to the Orange County Register, Rushing received an internal brace procedure, which utilizes a high-strength synthetic tape to reinforce the damaged ligament as a variation of traditional...
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing underwent surgery on Oct. 22 to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, ending his second major league season, multiple outlets including the LA Times, Orange County Register, and Yahoo Sports reported.
Dalton Rushing Undergoes Ulnar Collateral Ligament Surgery
Rushing initially landed on the injured list in early August after suffering a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament. Following a platelet-rich plasma injection, he returned to the active roster in September before aggravating the injury during throwing drills. He was left off the National League Division Series and Championship Series rosters.
According to the Orange County Register, Rushing received an internal brace procedure, which utilizes a high-strength synthetic tape to reinforce the damaged ligament as a variation of traditional Tommy John surgery. The recovery period for a position player following this procedure is typically nine months.
Recovery Timeline and 2026 Season Impact
The projected recovery timeline points to a mid-July return to game action for the catcher. While Rushing may resume hitting earlier than he can throw, returning to defensive catching duties immediately remains unlikely.
Rushing opened the 2026 major league season as the backup to Will Smith. When Smith missed three months due to a neck injury sustained in early June, Rushing stepped into extended playing time. Across 80 games in his second big league season, he batted .246 with 12 home runs, 36 RBIs, 37 runs scored, and a .788 OPS.
Dodgers Catcher Depth Adjustments
The Dodgers previously addressed organizational catching depth at the trade deadline by acquiring Hunter Feduccia and Ben Lottvedt. Feduccia is positioned to serve as Smith’s backup behind the plate for the 2027 season while Rushing completes his rehabilitation, and Lottvedt enters the free-agent market during the upcoming offseason.