Dodgers assistant GM sees both sides of Dalton Rushing

"“He can be polarizing at times,” said Billy Gasparino, the Dodgers' assistant general manager who helps run their drafts. “I think the one thing that stands out to me is he loves baseball. He's super knowledgeable. He loves to talk. Behind the intense competitor, there's like a pretty good guy in there that likes his teammates and would do anything for them.”"

"Rushing has been in the spotlight for on-field incidents over the past month involving several Los Angeles Dodgers opponents and an umpire. The 25-year-old first alleged something “fishy” with the Colorado Rockies' success against Will Klein during a series at Coors Field. That was followed by Rushing appearing to direct expletives towards the San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee and Miguel Amaya of the Chicago Cubs. He also became irate with home-plate umpire Clint Vondrak upon striking out via pitch clock violation during a recent game."

"To Rushing's credit, he is aware of his current perception and wants to take the necessary steps toward being known for his play on the field rather than making negative headlines. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and some veteran teammates spoke with Rushing about his behavior. Though, it was from the standpoint of offering advice and guidance on how to best channel his demeanor, rather than attempting to fully restrain him."

"In response to the incident with Amaya, Rushing made an effort to clear the air. He contacted Nico Hoerner through their shared agent after the infielder said he regretted not confronting the Dodgers' second-year catcher. The disparaging message, which Rushing did not confirm to have said, hasn't seemed to upset Amaya. But Amaya did make it clear t"

Dalton Rushing has been involved in multiple on-field incidents over the past month involving Los Angeles Dodgers opponents and an umpire. He alleged something “fishy” regarding the Colorado Rockies’ success against Will Klein at Coors Field. He appeared to direct expletives toward San Francisco Giants player Jung Hoo Lee and Chicago Cubs player Miguel Amaya. He also became upset with home-plate umpire Clint Vondrak after striking out due to a pitch clock violation. Dodgers vice president Billy Gasparino said Rushing can be polarizing but is knowledgeable, loves baseball, and is a good teammate. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and veterans advised him on channeling his demeanor. After the Amaya incident, Rushing contacted Nico Hoerner through their shared agent to clear the air, and Amaya indicated he regretted not confronting Rushing earlier.

Read at Dodger Blue