Cubs manager Craig Counsell calls MLB’s Shohei Ohtani rule ‘bizarre’
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell criticized Major League Baseball's two-way player designation rule, commonly associated with Shohei Ohtani, calling it "bizarre" and unfairly benefiting one team.
- The two-way designation allows players who meet specific pitching and hitting criteria to pitch without counting against the active roster's 13-pitcher limit, giving teams like the Dodgers added roster flexibility.
- Despite injuries to multiple pitchers, the Cubs remain restricted to carrying only 13 pitchers on their active roster, highlighting the challenges smaller payroll teams face under the current rules.
- The rule is seen by Counsell as primarily benefiting offense and providing a unique advantage to the Dodgers, who can carry Ohtani as both a hitter and pitcher without typical roster constraints.
- The Cubs will face the Dodgers soon, preparing to contend with Ohtani primarily as a hitter and base-runner, as his next pitching start is scheduled after their series.
