Dalton Rushing, now a promising young catcher, reminisces about his childhood in 2008 when he was just seven years old and focused on youth baseball tournaments. That same year, Clayton Kershaw, then a 20-year-old rookie, made his major league debut with the Dodgers. Fast forward to 2025, Rushing caught Kershaw’s first start of his 18th season, symbolizing a passing of the torch between generations.
Clayton Kershaw’s Legendary Career Faces Challenges Amid Injuries And Recent Comeback Struggles
Clayton Kershaw is a legendary figure for the Dodgers, joining a select group of players with 18 seasons on the team. Despite recent struggles due to injuries—including surgeries on his shoulder, toe, and knee—Kershaw remains one of the game’s greatest pitchers, with three Cy Young Awards and a 2014 MVP to his name. His 2024 season was cut short, forcing him to watch from the sidelines as the Dodgers won the World Series, fueling his motivation to return strong.
Dalton Rushing (MLB)In Kershaw’s return from rehab, he allowed five runs in four innings during a high-scoring 11-9 loss to the Angels. The game showed flashes of his classic form but was marred by control issues and a slow start. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted Kershaw’s efficiency in some innings but acknowledged the need for improvement going forward.
Rushing Embraces Responsibility As Rookie Catcher And Contributes Key Hits For Dodgers
Despite being a rookie with just his second major league game behind the plate, Rushing took responsibility for the game’s outcomes, both good and bad. He expressed a strong desire to help his pitchers succeed and showed maturity by acknowledging the learning curve ahead. Kershaw, in turn, praised Rushing’s preparation and potential, acknowledging that the young catcher didn’t get much support from him during the outing.
Rushing also made an impact offensively, delivering a game-tying double and an RBI single in the later innings. His bat provided some spark amid the Dodgers’ offensive struggles, even as the team fell short in the tight contest. Both players walked away from the game motivated to improve, with Rushing learning from the veteran and Kershaw aiming to pitch better in future starts.
