As the trade deadline approaches, interest is focused on whether LA Dodgers’ "top prospect" Dalton Rushing (catcher) will be traded.

"Dodgers Nation," which reports on Dodgers news, stated on the 2nd (Korea time) that "the possibility of Rushing's trade is low. The Dodgers view Rushing not as a short-term trading chip but as a core player for the future."

Rushing, ranked as the top Dodgers prospect by "MLB.com," made his big league debut this season. As of the 1st, he has appeared in 7 games, recording a batting average of .273 (6 hits in 22 at-bats), 1 home run, 7 RBIs, and 5 runs.

The outlet noted, "There were various speculations about the circumstances surrounding Rushing’s big league call-up, whether it was to develop him as a backup catcher for Will Smith or a signal of availability ahead of the trade deadline." It also added, "Currently, Rushing is adjusting to his role as a backup catcher for the Dodgers, recording a batting average of .273 with 1 home run and 7 RBIs."

"Dodgers Nation" cited Ken Rosenthal from the U.S. sports media "The Athletic," saying, "It is likely that Rushing will remain as the Dodgers’ backup catcher. The Dodgers’ call-up of Rushing can easily be interpreted as a preliminary step towards a trade."

It further stated, "While Hunter Feduccia could take on the backup catcher role, the Dodgers have no intention of trading Rushing, especially not with their immediate needs for team reinforcement."

It also projected, "As good hitters are becoming increasingly rare, Rushing possesses significant hitting talent. If the Dodgers do not utilize Rushing as a catcher, he could be used as a left fielder to replace Michael Conforto, whose contract ends next year."

The outlet concluded, "Ultimately, the Dodgers view Rushing not as a short-term trading chip but as a core player for the future."

Meanwhile, on the 2nd, the Dodgers lined up a starting roster against the New York Yankees at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, with designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, right fielder Teoscar Hernández, first baseman Freddie Freeman, catcher Will Smith, left fielder Andy Pages, center fielder Tommy Edman, third baseman Max Muncy, second baseman Kiké Hernández, and shortstop Miguel Rojas. Right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto is aiming for his 7th win of the season.

Kim Hye-sung, who showcased a one-man show with 4 hits including a home run in 4 at-bats with 2 RBIs and 3 runs the previous day, was not included in the lineup on the 2nd due to Yankees' left-handed starter Ryan Yarbrough.

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