The Los Angeles Dodgers are bringing Dalton Rushing back at the perfect time for one final audition before the postseason.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Rushing will be activated Friday, according to MLB.com reporter Sonja Chen. The move comes ahead of Los Angeles’ final regular-season series against the San Francisco Giants.
Rushing’s return gives him a chance to make his case for a spot on the Dodgers’ NLDS roster, although his opportunities will be limited. Chen reported that the rookie could receive roughly three pinch-hit at-bats during the final weekend.
Rushing has dealt with a partial UCL tear in his right elbow that has kept him away from the lineup for much of the second half. He also returned briefly earlier this month before a setback in his throwing program sent him back to the injured list.
Because of the elbow issue, Rushing is not expected to catch or play defense. That leaves his bat as the primary reason for his return, putting even more importance on whatever opportunities Roberts gives him.
Rushing has hit .249 with a .332 on-base percentage, .466 slugging percentage, 12 home runs and 36 RBIs across 78 games this season. His power could give the Dodgers another option off the bench if he earns a postseason spot.
Scott Marshall-Imagn Images
His return also comes shortly after the Dodgers optioned fellow rookie Josue De Paula to Triple-A Oklahoma City. De Paula impressed during his brief MLB stint but was sent down after Shohei Ohtani returned.
Now, Rushing has a small window to show Roberts what he can provide. With the Dodgers already securing the NL West and a first-round bye, these final games can help settle the remaining questions before October begins.
ALSO SEE: NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Thursday, Sept. 24
