Cubs manager calls Ohtani rule bizarre as Dodgers benefit from two-way designation

Cubs manager Craig Counsell described MLB's rule that lets the Los Angeles Dodgers carry 14 pitchers due to Shohei Ohtani’s two-way designation as bizarre, arguing that Ohtani is receiving special consideration.

Under MLB roster rules, teams may have a maximum of 13 pitchers on their active roster from Opening Day through August 31. For the remainder of the season, teams can carry 14 pitchers and 28 active players. Ohtani’s two-way designation means he isn’t counted as a pitcher against the Dodgers’ limit, effectively enabling the larger pitching staff when he is in the lineup.

Counsell spoke during a pregame media session on Monday, reiterating his view that the Ohtani rule benefits the Dodgers. Ohtani is noted as the defending National League MVP, adding context to why the arrangement has drawn particular attention.