The Los Angeles Dodgers open up the National League Championship Series tonight in Milwaukee against the Brewers. They have made one change to their roster. Right-handed pitcher Ben Casparius is the 26th man and catcher Dalton Rushing is off, according to Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic.
Dodgers Make An Important Adjustment to NLCS Roster
The Dodgers announced their NLCS roster. Ben Casparius is on, Dalton Rushing is off: pic.twitter.com/BSYboitdVm
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) October 13, 2025
Casper Returns
Ben Casparius has paid his dues in the Dodgers minor-league system as a starter, and he played a pivotal role in the Dodgers bullpen covering for an injured starting rotation in 2024. Predictably, he began 2025 in the bullpen as well with incredible success. Los Angeles relied on him as a multi-inning guy and he flourished in the first half with an Earned Run Average of below 3.00. However, when injuries hit the starters, the Dodgers inserted the right-hander in the rotation, the young pitcher struggled with his control. He has a 7-2 record with a 4.46 E.RA. this season. In anticipation of a longer series and the Brewers lineup construction, Los Angeles is hoping that Casparius can be as effective in the relief core as he was last year in the postseason.
Insurance No Longer Needed
All-Star catcher Will Smith fractured his finger on a foul tip, causing him to miss the last month of the regular season. He was on the first two rounds of the postseason roster, largely in a pitch-hitting role. Ben Rortvedt and Dalton Rushing were tasked with the duty behind the plate. It is very clear that the Dodgers think highly of Rortvedt and the way he handles the pitching staff. Rortvedt was acquired from Tampa Bay at the Trade Deadline. When Rushing was out due to a bruised shin, the Rays transplant made himself indispensable. The Dodger starters have a 2.00 E.R.A since August 1st, and have won the last 10 of 11 games.
Bucking A Trend
Unfortunately the Dodgers have yet to beat the Brewers this season. They will have to find a way to win against Milwaukee if they want a return trip to the World Series, and it starts tonight.
Main Photo Credits: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
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