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"Pretty embarrassing. Thankfully he's as good as he is and he can take control of the game," Rushing remarked.
Clubhouse veterans Max Muncy and Mookie Betts later defended the rookie on the On Base podcast, calling it an invaluable learning moment while praising Rushing for taking immediate responsibility.
"It's my job, whether I'm 25 years old or 35 years old, to say, 'Look, I'm wearing this, this is my fault,'" Rushing previously stated.
Rushing reiterated his respect for Ohtani, acknowledging that the veteran star has earned complete authority to dictate the pace and strategy on the mound.
"I need to move forward. I need to grow from this.
And I need to make sure we bring good out of this," Rushing added.
The Dodgers are also benefiting from the return of super-utility player Tommy Edman, who is batting .
366 with 15 hits and 15 RBIs through 12 games since being activated from the injured list on June 16.
"Look, he's the greatest player to play this game," Rushing told the California Post.
Edman, who missed extended time following ankle surgery, credited his immediate offensive surge and defensive flexibility across second base, third base, and left field to a rigorous pregame routine established during rehab.
"And he has every right to, one, call whatever he would like, and two, just attack the way that he wants to on the mound.
Because no one on this earth can tell him that he doesn't know what he's doing out there," Rushing said.
