Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing spent time with local children on Thursday morning, joining the Dodgers Foundation to read a book to kids at the Chinatown Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library.
Rushing, who has found himself embroiled ina few controversies this season, participated in the LADF’s LA Reads project and read aloud to youths from the Dodgers Dreamteam.
He also joined the kids in singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”
Dalton Rushing speaks on what kids should learn from his example
During his visit, Rushing spoke with Dodgers Nation’s Noel Sanchez and highlighted the importance of performing acts of service like this.
He also addressed what he hopes younger players learn from watching him work through situations like the very public disagreements with superstar Shohei Ohtani.
“You’re a human being,” he said. “There’s going to be times where things are turned against you and there’s nothing you can do about it. At the end of the day, showing up, doing something like this, spending time with kids kind of shows the true person you are.”
How has Dalton Rushing’s 2026 season been?
Rushing has had plenty of ups and downs in the 2026 season.
In his limited appearances — 52 games, as of Thursday afternoon — he’s batting .244 with nine home runs and 25 RBIs.
He’s also been part of the aforementioned controversies, ranging from appearing to swear at opponents to struggling to deal with pressure in the dugout.
Most recently, Ohtani was visibly frustrated with Rushing’s pitch calling, prompting the Japanese superstar to take over calling pitches for the rest of his start.
In that same game, Rushing also had three strikeouts at the plate, adding to the stress that Rushing demonstrated from the dugout.
Manager Dave Roberts and older teammates have stepped in to help guide the young player, but some Dodgers fans have instead wished for the return of injured catcher Will Smith.
Smith, who’s dealing with a neck injury, isn’t expected back until at least after the All-Star break.
In the meantime, Rushing will continue to serve as the team’s top option at catcher.
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