Los Angeles, California — May 19, 2025
In a move that has sent ripples through the baseball community, the Los Angeles Dodgers have designated veteran catcher Austin Barnes for assignment, effectively ending his 11-season tenure with the team. Barnes, a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s recent success, known for his defensive prowess and leadership both on and off the field.
A Storied Career with the Dodgers
Acquired by the Dodgers in a trade with the Miami Marlins in December 2014, Barnes quickly established himself as a reliable presence behind the plate. Over 11 seasons, he became the longest-tenured position player on the roster, contributing significantly to the team’s successes, including World Series titles in 2020 and 2024. His ability to manage pitchers and his defensive skills made him a trusted figure among the pitching staff.
Barnes’ impact extended beyond statistics. His leadership and work ethic set a standard in the clubhouse, earning him respect from teammates and coaches alike. Manager Dave Roberts praised Barnes, stating, “Austin is a guy that’s far beyond the numbers. He’s a glue guy. He held guys accountable. He was tough. He had a very innate ability to get big hits, and he was respected across the board.”
The Emergence of Dalton Rushing
The decision to part ways with Barnes comes as the Dodgers look to the future with the promotion of top catching prospect Dalton Rushing. Rushing, 24, has been making waves in Triple-A, boasting a .308 batting average with five home runs and 17 RBIs. His performance earned him the Dodgers’ Minor League Player of the Year award in 2024.
President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing the need to balance honoring past contributions with the organization’s future goals. “This has been a very emotional week for all of us,” Friedman said. “Barnsey and CT [Chris Taylor] have been in the middle of some huge moments for this organization. Both guys have left an indelible mark on our culture and where we’re at at this point.”
Teammates Reflect on Barnes’ Departure
The news of Barnes’ designation has elicited heartfelt reactions from teammates. Pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who shared a close bond with Barnes, expressed his sentiments: “You won’t find a guy that competes more than Austin Barnes. He loves to win more than anybody, and he always found a way. It’s sad to see someone like that go who’s been here that long. We all feel it.”
First baseman Max Muncy also highlighted Barnes’ game-calling acumen, noting, “Just watching him work, with his finger on the pulse at all times. Calling pitches that pitchers didn’t usually throw, calling pitches that shouldn’t be thrown against certain hitters. He just had the feel of the game in that moment, recognizing things. He was so elite at that.”
A Legacy Cemented
Throughout his career with the Dodgers, Barnes appeared in 13 games in the 2025 season, posting a .214 batting average. Despite limited offensive numbers, his defensive contributions and leadership were invaluable. Barnes’ tenure with the team is marked by his unwavering commitment and the respect he garnered from the organization.
As the Dodgers navigate this transition, the impact of Austin Barnes’ presence will undoubtedly be felt. His legacy as a dedicated teammate and skilled catcher remains a significant chapter in the storied history of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
