Dalton Rushing and Logan Henderson are two intriguing players to consider for fantasy baseball in 2025. Rushing, the backup catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has shown promise with a .400 batting average in his limited plate appearances but faces playing time challenges. Meanwhile, Henderson, a pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, has impressive strikeout numbers and a respectable ERA, but his long-term spot in the rotation is uncertain due to injury concerns. Both players have the potential to be valuable assets depending on team needs and health status.

As the 2025 MLB season enters Week 8, the waiver wire is buzzing with potential pickups for fantasy baseball enthusiasts. Key additions include Zebby Matthews, who makes his debut for the Minnesota Twins after being called up from the minors. He’s expected to be a significant asset in starting rotations across leagues. Likewise, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing and Chicago Cubs’ Moises Ballesteros have been added in response to injuries, adding depth at catcher. Also worth noting is the resurgence of Wilmer Flores from the San Francisco Giants, who’s hitting an impressive .400 with power in his last five games.

Injuries are shaping the landscape of pickups; the Kansas City Royals placed star pitcher Cole Ragans on the injured list with groin tightness, presenting an opportunity for other pitchers to step up. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on recent performances, particularly from players like Jackson Holliday and Marcelo Mayer, who are generating buzz as valuable assets off the wire. As the week unfolds, prioritizing these players could provide the edge needed to win matchups.

Week 8 of the fantasy baseball waiver wire analysis highlights the outlook for newly called-up players Jordan Lawlar, Dalton Rushing, and Jesus Tinoco. Lawlar, a promising shortstop for the Arizona Diamondbacks, boasts a powerful offensive record but faces limited playing time, hindering his immediate fantasy prospects. Rushing, catching for the Los Angeles Dodgers, also has high potential but is set to be a backup, restricting his utility in leagues. Tinoco, a reliever for the Miami Marlins, has secured some saves but presents significant risk due to his inconsistent performance.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant roster move by designating catcher Austin Barnes for assignment in order to call up their top prospect, Dalton Rushing. Barnes, a veteran who contributed to two World Series victories, steps aside for Rushing, who is expected to make a notable impact in MLB. This decision highlights the Dodgers' commitment to future success and their confidence in Rushing's potential as a starter.

As the Dodgers look to optimize their team, speculation arises about the future of Michael Conforto. After a lackluster performance, hitting just .175 with a 70 OPS+, he could be a candidate for a similar fate to Barnes. Conforto, signed for $17 million with hopes of recapturing his All-Star form, faces mounting pressure to deliver. The organization could potentially explore trade options as the deadline approaches if he continues to underperform.

The Los Angeles Dodgers exhibited an offensive onslaught, defeating the Oakland Athletics 19-2, a game highlighted by Shohei Ohtani’s two home runs and six RBIs, tying him for the Major League lead in home runs at 15 this season. Other notable contributions included home runs from Max Muncy, Andy Pages, and James Outman, while Hyeseong Kim reached base five times. However, the most significant moment came from Dalton Rushing, making his Major League debut, going 2-for-4 with a walk and showcasing his potential behind the plate as the Dodgers navigated a bullpen game.

Rushing's ascent to the big leagues comes after a successful minor league stint, where he earned the title of the Dodgers' minor league player of the year. His introduction to the team was strategic, as the Dodgers needed a left-handed bat and better defensive capability after parting with longtime catcher Austin Barnes. Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Rushing’s readiness, while president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman highlighted his work ethic and commitment to improvement. The Dodgers, with a strong start to the season, are eager to maximize their roster as they contend in the competitive NL West.