Dodgers Celebrate Future with 2024 Branch Rickey Award Winners
As Reported by MLB.com, the Los Angeles Dodgers are celebrating two outstanding talents from their minor league system, Dalton Rushing and Jackson Ferris, by naming them the Branch Rickey Minor League Players of the Year for 2024. This recognition highlights their exceptional performances throughout the season and showcases the organization’s commitment to nurturing elite prospects.
DALTON RUSHING: A SEASON OF RESILIENCE Dalton Rushing, selected 40th overall in the 2022 draft from Louisville, made a remarkable comeback this season after a challenging 2023 affected by concussion issues. His performance in 2024 was a testament to his determination, finishing with a batting average of .270, an on-base percentage of .383, and a slugging percentage of .501. Across 112 games, Rushing belted 24 home runs and recorded 21 doubles, boasting an impressive weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 135.
What truly sets Rushing apart this year is not just his power but his versatility in the field. He took on left field responsibilities, making 26 starts in that position while also leading performances in Double-A and Triple-A. His success in Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he held a 120 wRC+, emphasizes his ability to rise to the challenges at higher levels of competition. JACKSON FERRIS: DOMINANCE ON THE MOUND Jackson Ferris also made a name for himself as the Dodgers’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year.
After joining the organization from the Cubs, Ferris posted an impressive 3.20 ERA over 27 starts. He led all Dodgers minor league pitchers with 145 strikeouts, achieving a stellar strikeout rate of 27.4%. Ferris demonstrated his talent during a remarkable stretch at Great Lakes, where he allowed just four runs in 34 innings. His transition to Double-A was equally impressive, maintaining a 2.54 ERA over seven appearances. His ability to confuse hitters combined with his strikeout capability positions him as a promising future asset for the Dodgers.
