Full Breakdown
Dodgers Execute Six-Player Roster Shuffle Ahead of Cardinals Series
9/2/2026, 12:02:48 PM
Roster Shuffle Ahead of Cardinals Series
On September 1, 2026, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced a six-player roster adjustment to prepare for the home series against the St. Louis Cardinals. To clear space on the 40-man roster, catcher Ben Rortvedt was designated for assignment and outfielder Alek Thomas was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City. The moves also created room to activate three players from the injured list and recall an infielder.
Players Activated and Moves Made
- Will Smith – activated after missing his last game on June 5 because of a neck injury; returns as the starting catcher.
- Dalton Rushing – activated despite a slightly torn UCL; expected to provide a left-handed bench bat while continuing rehab on his catching duties.
- Justin Wrobleski – activated from a two-week forearm injury and slated for a bullpen role.
- Alex Freeland – recalled from Triple-A to add depth at second base and give veteran infielders occasional rest.
Manager Dave Roberts noted that the team does not know whether Rushing will be able to catch again this season, emphasizing his value as a left-handed hitter.
Statistical Snapshot
- Will Smith entered the season with a .720 OPS over 52 games, tallying six home runs and 23 RBIs.
- Dalton Rushing contributed a left-handed bat but was not expected to catch while recovering.
- Alex Freeland posted a .231 average with three homers and 19 RBIs in 72 major-league games; his Triple-A numbers were .259/.788 with five home runs.
- Tommy Edman, who is likely to move to center field, has logged a .105 OPS+ and 27 RBIs in 60 games this season.
Impact on Lineup and Strategy
The activated players allow the Dodgers to field Will Smith behind starter Eric Lauer, shift Kyle Tucker to the sixth spot, and insert Freeland into the batting order. With Rushing providing a left-handed bench option, the club feels less pressure to promote top outfield prospect James Tibbs III, who remains in Triple-A despite a .295/.418/.547 slash line. The roster changes also free a spot for right-handed reliever Blake Treinen, who is nearing a return from the 60-day injured list.
Upcoming Decisions
The Dodgers must still decide whether to promote Tibbs or make additional moves before Treinen is eligible, and they will monitor Rushing’s catching recovery as the postseason approaches.
