Shohei Ohtani’s Shocking Power Surge and Dalton Rushing’s Explosive Debut Ignite Dodgers’ Crushing Victory Over Athletics
When a team lays down a 19-2 drubbing as the Dodgers did to the Athletics on Thursday night, you know the highlight reel’s gonna be stacked. It wasn’t just one or two players having a night to remember — this lineup, peppered with some of the game’s biggest names, practically took turns lighting up the scoreboard. Shohei Ohtani, tying the major league with his 15th home run of the season, hammered two shots and racked up six RBIs. Max Muncy, Andy Pages, and James Outman followed suit with their own blasts, helping push the Dodgers to a running season-high. Meanwhile, Hyeseong Kim showcased some serious plate discipline, reaching base in every single one of his five appearances. Even Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts got on base five times combined before clocking out after the third inning — and the team was already looking at an 11-run lead by then.
But here’s the kicker — all those fireworks kind of pale next to the story unfolding behind the plate. Makeshift catcher and top prospect Dalton Rushing made his MLB debut after a big roster shake-up the day before. And boy, did he make it count. He walked on his first swing, then singled on his next, finishing two-for-four and handling a bullpen-heavy game with surprising poise. At just 24 years old, and fresh off being called up at the expense of longtime backup Austin Barnes, Rushing showed he’s not just another kid with potential — he’s ready. Manager Dave Roberts was quick to note how naturally comfortable Rushing seemed, even in his very first major league outing.
It’s been quite the journey for this University of Louisville product — no overnight sensation here. Four full seasons climbing through the minors, piling up a .277 average, 54 home runs, 185 RBIs, and a .931 OPS on the way up. The Dodgers’ minor leaguer of the year from just last season? Yeah, they knew their time to promote him was finally now.
Want the full story on Rushing’s arrival, his performance, and what it means for the Dodgers’ season? Check it out right here: LEARN MOREAs is typically the case when a team wins 19-2 like the Dodgers did against the Athletics on Thursday night, plenty of hitters in the team’s star-studded lineup aligned to have monster nights.
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