Quick Read
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto will start the Dodgers’ first Cactus League game Saturday against the Angels.
- Manager Dave Roberts expects Mookie Betts to be in the MVP conversation this season.
- Betts will bat third in the lineup, with Shohei Ohtani leading off.
- Dalton Rushing will serve as the primary backup catcher, focusing on understanding his role and adapting to sporadic playing time.
- Rushing is not expected to expand into the outfield, but might see some first base opportunities.
PHOENIX (Azat TV) – The Los Angeles Dodgers are kicking off their 2026 Spring Training with significant announcements regarding their pitching rotation, lineup expectations, and prospect development. World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto is slated to start the team’s first Cactus League game this Saturday against the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium, setting an immediate tone for the upcoming season. Manager Dave Roberts has also expressed high expectations for Mookie Betts, projecting him into the MVP conversation, while the team continues to refine the crucial backup catcher role for Dalton Rushing.
Dodgers’ Spring Training Kicks Off with Key Pitching Announcement
The anticipation for the 2026 MLB season is building as the Dodgers officially begin their Spring Training schedule. A major highlight is the announcement that star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, a key player in the Dodgers’ recent World Series victory, will take the mound for the opening Cactus League game. This early assignment signals the team’s confidence in Yamamoto and his readiness to lead the pitching staff from the outset of the exhibition season.
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed on Thursday that Yamamoto would start the highly anticipated matchup against the Angels. While veteran players are expected to be held back until next week, Roberts indicated that fans can expect to see Will Smith, Teoscar Hernández, and Andy Pages in the starting lineup for Saturday’s opener. This strategic deployment allows key players to get early reps while managing the workload of the full roster during a longer spring training period.
Mookie Betts Eyes Bounce-Back Season and Lineup Adjustment
Entering the 2026 season, all eyes are on Mookie Betts, who is poised for a significant rebound year at the plate. Despite playing 148 games at shortstop and being a Gold Glove Award finalist last season, Betts acknowledged that he hasn’t had a regular spring training since joining the Dodgers. He also notably opted out of participating in the World Baseball Classic this year, allowing him to focus entirely on his preparations with the team.
Manager Dave Roberts did not mince words regarding his expectations for Betts, stating unequivocally, “He will be in the MVP conversation this year.” Roberts plans to slot Betts third in the batting order, a strategic move aimed at maximizing his impact. Shohei Ohtani is expected to retain the leadoff spot, with Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, and newcomer Kyle Tucker being considered for the second and fourth positions. Roberts believes Betts’ versatility at the third spot—combining on-base ability, hit production, and run-driving—makes him a ‘Swiss Army knife’ in the lineup. Betts himself expressed eagerness, saying, “I’ll see what I can make of it,” indicating his determination to perform at an elite level after a playoff slump in 2025 where he batted a combined .136 in the NLCS and World Series.
Dalton Rushing’s Evolving Role as Backup Catcher
The Dodgers are also focusing on the development of Dalton Rushing, who is entering his second MLB season with a clearer understanding of his role as the primary backup catcher to Will Smith. Last year, the team made the significant decision to part with longtime veteran Austin Barnes to promote Rushing from Triple-A Oklahoma City. However, Rushing faced a steep learning curve in 2025, particularly struggling with sporadic playing time, a challenge Roberts anticipates will continue.
Rushing finished his rookie season with a .204/.258/.324 slash line, including five doubles, four home runs, and 24 RBI across 53 games. Roberts emphasized the importance of Rushing embracing his role, learning the pitching staff, and adapting his swing to less frequent at-bats. ‘Dalton’s in a good spot right now. I want him to understand his role as a backup catcher,’ Roberts stated, acknowledging the difficulty of transitioning from daily play in the Minor Leagues to limited starts in the majors. While there was offseason speculation about Rushing expanding into left field, that possibility has been largely curtailed by the Dodgers’ signing of Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernández’s return to left field. Roberts indicated Rushing might still see some opportunities at first base if Freddie Freeman is out, but his primary focus remains behind the plate.
Looking Ahead for the Los Angeles Dodgers
As the Dodgers embark on their Spring Training, the focus is clearly on integrating new talent, solidifying key roles, and refining strategies for a competitive season. The early start for Yamamoto, the high expectations for Betts, and the continued development of prospects like Rushing underscore the team’s commitment to maintaining its position as a top contender. The strategic positioning of players in the batting order and the clarity around defensive roles suggest a well-thought-out plan designed to maximize individual strengths for collective success.
The Dodgers’ early Spring Training announcements signal a proactive approach to the 2026 season, prioritizing player development and strategic lineup construction to build on past successes and address areas for improvement.