Dodgers Rumors: AL contender's desperation could fuel Dalton Rushing trade

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing has been in the headlines this season for a variety of reasons — both good and bad. Rushing is having a breakout season with a .264/.345/.494 slash line to go along with 10 home runs and 30 RBI. The Dodgers have to be thrilled with his production, especially with Will Smith missing multiple weeks due to injury.

But the other side brings a fiery temper, which has not only annoyed other teams, but also caused issues with Rushing's own teammates — even Shohei Ohtani. Dodgers coaches and players publicly defended Rushing's behavior, but are they just doing this because they know how important Rushing is with Smith still out?

Rushing won't be the starting catcher once Smith returns, and it would behoove the Dodgers to downplay his antics and speak fondly of his character to the press, especially if they're planning to move him before the upcoming MLB trade deadline.

Dodgers rumors have connected Dalton Rushing to the Rangers & Yankees

There's been no sort of intel coming from the Dodgers that they're interested in trading Rushing. But that hasn't stopped others from speculating. ESPN's Jeff Passan mentioned both the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees as teams who might be interested in Rushing, if he were to become available before the August 3 deadline.

The Rangers are the more interesting of the two teams because they're teetering on playoff contention right now and could become convinced that they need to make a big splash at the deadline. Rushing would certainly fit that mold.

And while the Dodgers aren't necessarily interested in trading Rushing, that could change if Texas offered a haul for the young backstop. We know that LA's front office is always looking to replenish its farm system, and might be able to get some top-tier prospect capital from a Rangers team in need of some pop before the deadline. Passan's idea makes a lot of sense.

If the Rangers are still hovering around .500 by the time the deadline nears, keep an eye on what's going on in Arlington. The American League is wide open this year, and Texas might feel they're a player from getting some separation in the AL West standings. The Dodgers should keep an open mind on trading Rushing, even if Plan A is to keep him past the deadline.

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