Will Smith Teaching Dalton Rushing The "Dodgers' Way"

"They spent days swinging in the organization's hitting lab, though Smith's advice shifted from beyond what Rushing was trying to do with the bat in his hand. 'Not just (how to be a) hitter,' Rushing told The Athletic. 'But a Dodger.' The veteran catcher offered the wisdom he has gained over the course of seven-years in the Majors and how the Dodgers helped him become the player he is today."

"To be one of the best ones on the field at all times, to grow as a player, to be able to get my full potential out of myself,' Rushing said. With the experience of last season and preseason preparation, Rushing feels prepared to face the challenge head-on, specifically, how to be a backup catcher when he's been used to playing every day."

"That starts with Rushing embracing his current role, which Rushing called 'a really, really hard spot to be in.' 'But if you can master this role, it only makes being an everyday player that much easier,' he said."

Dalton Rushing represents part of the Los Angeles Dodgers' future alongside Andy Pages on a roster dominated by older veterans. Despite strong minor league performance, Rushing struggled during his first season as backup catcher behind Will Smith, one of baseball's elite catchers. Smith has taken Rushing under his wing, mentoring him in the hitting lab and teaching him not just technical skills but the Dodgers' organizational culture and values. Smith shares wisdom accumulated over seven major league seasons and multiple All-Star selections. Rushing is learning to embrace his backup role, understanding that mastering this challenging position will prepare him for future opportunities as an everyday player.

Read at Dodger Blue