Full Breakdown
Ohtani, Rushing Miscommunication in Dodgers’ 4-3 Win
6/26/2026, 1:25:56 AM
Game Summary
On June 24, 2026 at Target Field, the Dodgers beat the Twins 4–3. Ohtani threw six innings, gave up three runs (two earned) and struck out eight. Rushing, filling in for injured Will Smith, caught and went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.
Background
Will Smith’s neck injury placed him on the IL, promoting 25-year-old Rushing—second-round 2022 draftee—to primary catcher for Ohtani’s start.
Timeline
- Early second inning: Rushing expected an off-speed pitch; Ohtani threw a 101 mph fastball that passed the glove, producing a run.
- Later: Ohtani challenged a borderline ball; Rushing signaled “no,” but the challenge succeeded.
- Mid-inning: Ohtani took over pitch-calling, then struck out the side in the third.
Data & Statistics
- Ohtani: 8-2, 1.58 ERA, .295/.414/.549, 17 HR/340 PA.
- ERA with Smith: 0.74 (10 G); with Rushing: 4.34 (3 G).
- 2026 challenges: 4,977 total; pitchers 100, 35 % success.
- Rushing: .245 avg, 8 HR, 22 RBI (see conflict).
Why It Matters
The miscue highlights the difficulty of pairing a two-way star with a rookie catcher, shaping strategy and defensive reliability. Roberts said Ohtani’s takeover “freed” Rushing, yet the episode may affect future catcher choices and the Dodgers’ postseason outlook.
Official Statements & Responses
Ohtani, via interpreter Will Ireton, called for “in-game flexibility” and clearer communication to read hitters. Rushing called the night “embarrassing,” admitted he “messed up,” and called the support a “tough pill.” Roberts noted the pair were “out of sync early” and both “frustrated.” Prior and Freddie Freeman were seen advising Rushing in the dugout.
Criticism & Opposition
Fans called Rushing “the most unlikable man” and doubted his teamwork; the New York Post called him “replaceable” and warned Ohtani’s frustration could force a catcher change.
Conflicting Reports
Rushing’s batting average appears as .245 in most sources but SportsKeeda lists .194 since May; OPS is reported as .953 in Triple-A last season versus .245 this MLB year.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Good thing he's as good as he is and he can take control of the game, but it's pretty embarrassing,” — Dalton Rushing, Dodgers catcher
- “I think both guys were frustrated and trying to get on the same page.” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager
- “The in-game flexibility, reading the swings, reading how the hitters are really taking their approach during the game -- that's how I see what adjustment needs to happen,” — Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers pitcher/slugger
- “There's really two ways of communicating,” Ohtani said, "one is by words, but the other way to be able to communicate is by example and just taking the charge and showing Rush what kind of pitching style I'm capable of.” — Shohei Ohtani
