![Dalton Rushing [Credit: Imagn]](https://collegefootballnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/i-was-told-view-it-03-04-26.jpg "“I Was Told to View It As An Internship” - Dalton Rushing Admits Playing On “Thin-Ice” Amidst Dodgers Star-Studded Lineup")
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing had a rough start last year, resulting in 37.4% strikeout rate, the fourth highest in the majors, with 150 plate appearances. Entering 2026, Rushing shifted his mindset, claiming he was playing on “thin ice” last year.
His name’s been up on the trade radar a couple of times as the Dodgers’ lineup has been filled to the brim with star-studded players. Instead of getting the chance to stand out, Rushing blended in with the group.
In an interview with the California Post on Monday, Dalton Rushing said he has learned a lot about himself and has a better understanding of the game now. However, he might have to wait for the spotlight, with his primary role being blocked by All-Star Will Smith.
“I was told to view it as an internship,” Dalton Rushing said of his rookie season. “I don’t like viewing it like that, I don’t like viewing this game as an internship. But at the same time, I see the perspective they were coming from, and the idea of what they wanted to do last year.”
“They wanted to make sure I understand these guys as much as possible moving forward. I by no means anticipate being a role player like this for my whole career, and I don’t think they do either. But I think last year was a really good learning year for me,” he added.
He even volunteered to play outfield to get a chance in the major league, but that too seems complicated, with the Dodgers signing Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240M deal. Rushing has now rewired his mindset to start off on a positive note, aiming to hit 200 singles this season.
Dave Roberts Sends Message to Dalton Rushing Ahead of Season Opener
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that getting a solid start in MLB debut might not be easy, so one has to simplify things. He believes Dalton Rushing has the qualities of a Major League player and hopes he gets at least 500 at-bats in 2026.
“It’s not easy. It’s hard. That’s why I think you’ve got to simplify things,” manager Dave Roberts said. “Not necessarily lower expectations, but understand what wins are and what are not wins.”
“Players are designed to look at production, but when you’re not playing every day as a young player who could always use the repetitions, production isn’t always just getting hits. But yeah, ideally, you’d love for him to get 500 at-bats this year for him to evolve and catch innings,” he added.
Rushing said that instead of being over-cautious about his playing time, he should have looked more into his swing and how his body reacts. Now, with a reframed mindset, he just wants to be a “hitter” and show the team that they can count on him when it matters.
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