Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing Wanted Ryan Ward to Play Over Him
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing wanted to give Ryan Ward his MLB debut rather than a start for himself on Sunday.
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing could have gotten his second consecutive start Sunday with Freddie Freeman, but manager Dave Roberts opted to give recent call up recipient Ryan Ward the opportunity instead. Rushing wouldn’t have had it any other way. Per The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya , Rushing said Ward earned his spot and was going to suggest he got the start at first base anyways.
Dalton Rushing wanted Ryan Ward to make his long-awaited debut for the Dodgers on Sunday instead of getting a start at 1B himself. That Dodgers culture is just special ? H/T @FabianArdaya pic.
twitter. com/TPaF5unjSS — Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) April 20, 2026 Ward rewarded his manager and teammates confidence in him with a strong outing, making a couple of nice plays on defense while also logging two hits and an RBI. Ward clearly had fun as well, speaking about how much he enjoyed the game after the contest despite the loss.
“It was a lot of fun,” Ward said . “From start to finish. The butterflies were there, for sure, to start the game.