At the same time as Rushing's new beginning, the end came for Austin Barnes. The longest-tenured position player on the team was designated for assignment after 11 seasons and two World Series championships. Barnes, the backup catcher to Will Smith, was hitting .214 with three doubles and two RBI.

The Dodgers summoned the No. 16 prospect in baseball to catch twice per week. The rookie replaces a beloved veteran.

Rushing, a 2022 second-round pick who is ranked No. 15 among all MLB prospects by MLB Pipeline, has yet to appear in MLB action. He is slashing .308/.424/.938 in 31 Triple-A games this season. The Dodgers will designate Austin Barnes for assignment in a corresponding move.