Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing Hits Back at “Villain” Narrative Around Him

Dalton Rushing has been under the heat from fans and some opposition players following his actions in front of the camera.

Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing Hits Back at “Villain” Narrative Around Him

Dalton Rushing (Image via X/@JustBB_Media)

Los Angeles Dodgers star Dalton Rushing has found himself in controversy in the past few weeks following his actions on the field. This had led to many calling him out and labeling him as a “villain.” The catcher recently hit back at this narrative.

Earlier this week, the 25-year-old saw his name being compared to A.J. Pierzynski. The former MLB catcher was once labeled as the most hated player in the league. The 2-time All-Star claimed that he does see some similarities between himself and Rushing.

The Dodgers’ star, however, does not like to see himself being labeled as a villain. He is hoping that people see him differently going forward.

I think guys have started to like, give me the label of (villain). I just think that’s me competing at the highest level and not allowing any outside source to kind of get in my way. … Anyone who knows me off the field, knows the person I am, how much I care about people. I think there’s been a mix up of image recently.

Dalton Rushing said as per Fabian Ardaya and Katie Woo of The Athletic

So, how did all of this narrative start? It all began in April after the Dodgers took on the Colorado Rockies in 4-game series at Coors Field.

The Denver-based side took down the 2-time defending champions 4-3 in the second game. In the 6th inning, they picked up 3 straight hits against Will Klein. After the game, Rushing made some bold comments about the Rockies and claimed that there was something “fishy” about them.

It was in the next series against the San Francisco Giants that he found himself under tremendous heat. After Jung Hoo Lee got injured at home plate following a tag out, Rushing appeared to have mouthed “f*** em.” He later denied using any NSFW words against the outfielder.

In the third game of the series, Rushing got drilled by Logan Webb. A 93 mph fastball hit him in the midsection. Later in this inning, he slid on the second base a couple of feet outside the baseline and nearly took out Willy Adames.

After the game, Luis Aaraez slammed him. The former San Diego Padres claimed it was not good baseball from him and labeled Rushing’s play as “dirty.”

In the next series against the Chicago Cubs, he appeared to call Miguel Amaya a “fat f***” after he stole the base. Cubs star Nico Hoerner later expressed that he wished he had confronted the Dodgers catcher about this comment.

He even had an exchange with umpire Clint Vondrak and made an exaggerated timeout call in the next game. All of these actions have landed him in hot water.

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Dodgers stars rally behind Dalton Rushing amid “villain” narrative

Dalton Rushing has become public enemy No.1 following his recent actions on the field. His teammates, however, have come in his support and rallied back behind him.

Dalton Rushing
Dalton Rushing (Image via X/@Dodgers)

One of them who has spoken highly of him is Miguel Rojas. The veteran, who had some troubles with Jazz Chisholm Jr. during their time at the Miami Marlins, claimed that they are not making a big deal out of it, as this is not the guy they are seeing in the locker room every day.

We don’t want to really make a big deal out of him, because that’s not the guy that we’re seeing every single day inside the locker room.

Miguel Rojas said as per The Athletic

Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman claimed that Rushing cares much about winning and defended the young catcher.

Dalton (Rushing) can sometimes black out on a baseball field, but he believes in himself. He cares so much about wanting to be good, so you can’t fault someone for that.

Freddie Freeman said regarding Dalton Rushing as per The Athletic

Speaking of Rushing, the player has been in fine form. In 19 games this season, he has batted with a .328 average with 7 home runs and 17 RBIs. The Dodgers, on the other hand, sit at the top of the NL West standings with a 23-14 record, 1 game ahead of the San Diego Padres.

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