Dalton Rushing Undergoes Elbow Surgery, Out Until 2027 Second Half

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing underwent surgery to repair a partially torn UCL in his right elbow. He is not expected to return to catching full-time until the second half of the 2027 season, approximately nine months post-procedure, though he may be available as a left-handed pinch-hitter earlier. The injury, which included a flexor strain in early August and a re-injury in September, limited him to just eight plate appearances over the final 51 games of 2026. Rushing finished his first full MLB season hitting .246/.328/.460 with 12 home runs in 80 games. His absence likely paves the way for Hunter Feduccia as the backup catcher.