Dave Roberts Comments on Dalton Rushing’s Early Dominance
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing made the most of another opportunity Monday, hitting two homers against the Colorado Rockies. Rushing has played in just eight games so far this season, but that hasn’t stopped him from putting together the best offensive stretch of his MLB career. His two homers against the Rockies from the nine spot Monday were his sixth and seventh of the season, tying him for the MLB lead among catchers with the Athletics’ Shea Langeliers.
He has started seven games this season, and has homered in five of them. “He’s performing,” manager Dave Roberts said . “It’s good to see him smile.
He’s really hard on himself and expects a lot, but, man, he’s off to a tremendous start. ” Roberts has been vocal about Rushing’s acceptance of his role heading into a season where he’ll likely serve exclusively as a backup, and the second-year catcher seems to be adjusting just fine. “Dalton’s in a good spot right now,” Roberts said .
“I want him to understand his role as a backup catcher, what that entails. Really learn the pitchers, learn a swing that works for playing a couple times a week. He’s used to playing a lot more.
“Just still maturing. It’s not easy to not play every day when you’re used to that. I think that he grew last year and I like where he’s at right now.