Manny Ramirez got the cross-examinations out of the way early Friday before his comeback game in San Diego, saying again that he didn’t want to talk about steroids and that he was “going forward.”

He did admit to some anxiety and embarrassment before the game against the Padres, but said his previous apology to the fans would suffice.

“Only one man in the world didn’t make a mistake and they killed him,” Ramirez said. “I told the fans I was sorry. I felt bad for my teammates because I wanted to be there every day for them. But they’ve been very professional.”

The Dodgers were 29-21 with Ramirez out and increased their National League West lead by a half-game.

Manager Joe Torre said that Ramirez seemed “uncomfortable” with the scene but said he felt Ramirez’ apologies and the fact that he didn’t deny that he used a performance-enhancing drug was good enough for him.

Irritated when a reporter asked if the non-denial was sufficient, Torre said, “He apologized. That means he thinks he made a mistake. Have you ever apologized for something? Did you do something wrong?”

When the reporter said that he had sometimes done that, Torre said, “So you apologized and you didn’t do anything wrong. You’re unique.”

Torre said Ramirez will play every day “until there’s a reason he shouldn’t” and is batting third tonight.

Asked if he was nervous, Ramirez said yes. “But that’s good,” he said. “It might take a little time but I will catch up. I’m one of the best players who ever put on a uniform. It will be OK. Bring it on.”

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