MLB World Bids Farewell as Dodgers Ask 2X World Series Champ to Make Way for Their No. 1 Prospect

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ clubhouse is quieter than usual. No farewell speeches, no grand celebrations, just the subtle changes and shifting of lockers—maybe that says something is changing. One of the team’s longest-standing figures, a player who’d seen the highest highs and endured the roughest stretches, was asked to do what very few are ever ready to do—make way for the future.

After nearly a decade of quietly holding the line behind the plate, providing a steady defense, his name was on Wednesday’s transaction wire—designated for assignment.

That man—Austin Barnes.

On Wednesday, the Dodgers made it official—they designated Barnes for assignment. And in the same breath, they called up Dalton Rushing, their top catching prospect. The guy who has been tearing up Triple-A. But even then, for Dodgers fans, this move stings.

Austin Barnes isn’t just any player—he is a two-time World Series champ, part of the 2020 and 2024 title teams. He hit a home run in Game 3 of the 2020 series. But beyond the stats, he has been the heartbeat of the plate. His steady presence is what makes him so. But the baseball world moves fast, and the future waits for no one. Rushing in comparison is just 24 years old, but he is batting. 308 with a .424 OBP and has a swing that practically screams “ready.” So, between the veteran and the next big thing, the Dodgers chose the latter.

But it’s not a bitter goodbye. Fans are sending him off with all the respect and love he deserves.

Los Angeles Dodgers fans share heartfelt reactions to Barnes’ departure

Austin Barnes has long been praised for his leadership qualities. So it’s no surprise that several fans are voicing for him to come back, not as a player but as a coach someday. The truth is that even Dave Roberts and the Los Angeles Dodgers teammates have highlighted his deep understanding of strategy and game management. He caught some of the biggest games in Dodgers history, including the clincher in the 2020 World Series. With that level of baseball IQ, fans wanting him in a coaching role is expected.

One user simply pointed out that, ironically, Barnes decided to start getting hot only when leaving. Well, statistically speaking, he isn’t wrong, because his 2025 campaign till now did shown signs of improvement. He was hitting .214 in limited appearances—a notable uptick compared to his .180 and .215 averages in the last two years. He also posted a higher line drive rate and struck out less compared to the past two seasons. So his DFA is surely a little bittersweet.

A fan compared him to A.J. Ellis, and it’s a fitting comparison. Both are trusted by the pitchers. Well, ask Clayton Kershaw! He and Barnes have a great bond. Barnes’s presence in the locker room cannot be overstated. He is often mentoring younger players and calming high-pressure situations. Sure, his numbers are not flashy, but his impact is beyond the batter’s box.

A user is simply asking where Barnes is going. Well, it’s a fair question since it’s the middle of the season, and several fans also felt it was kind of an insult. But the Dodgers did go ahead and thank Barnes very publicly for how he spent 11 years in the franchise. He was nothing but professional all along. And well, Barnes might not wear Dodger blue anymore, but then he can always go for a team that wants him for his stellar qualities. He has postseason experience and those leadership qualities, and veteran presence.

Several fans are even thrilled with the prospect call-up. And right now, the Dodgers need that boost of confidence, given that, pitching-wise, they are struggling and morale is at an all-time low. Not one or two, but 13 pitchers are sidelined, with Sasaki’s landing in the IL being another blow. Now, Rushing in Triple A has hit five home runs to go with a slash line of .308/.424/.515. He is MLB-ready, and the Dodgers need anything to revv up their morale.

Bring on our top prospect. It’s time. Ty. Go blueee

How do you feel about the Los Angeles Dodgers’ DFA’ing Barnes suddenly? Even though Barnes himself might have seen this coming, if not during the off-season. Let us know your thoughts.