Cubs Manager Craig Counsell Criticizes MLB’s Two-Way Player Rule Amid Shohei Ohtani Controversy
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell has reignited his criticism of Major League Baseball’s special designation for two-way players, arguing that the rule provides an unfair advantage to the Los Angeles Dodgers due to their possession of Shohei Ohtani.
Counsell’s latest remarks come amid an ongoing debate about MLB’s handling of two-way players, a designation that exempts certain athletes from standard pitching roster limits. The controversy intensified following Counsell’s initial comments during a press conference at Wrigley Field, where he described the rule as “bizarre” and suggested it was designed specifically to benefit teams with elite two-way talent like Ohtani.
According to MLB regulations, qualifying two-way players are not counted toward the 13-pitcher limit that applies from the start of the regular season through August 31. From September 1 through the end of the season, teams may carry up to 14 pitchers on their active roster, with the two-way player designation providing additional flexibility during the expanded roster period.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts defended the rule, stating that Ohtani qualifies for the exception because he is an “exceptional player” and emphasized that any team could benefit from the rule if they developed or acquired a similar talent. Roberts acknowledged that the Dodgers have gained an advantage from having Ohtani but framed it as a result of player development rather than preferential treatment.
The debate highlights the unique challenges posed by Ohtani’s dual-role capabilities, as he remains the only active MLB player who regularly performs at an elite level as both a pitcher and hitter. His ability to contribute significantly in both roles has prompted discussions about whether current roster rules adequately accommodate such rare talent without creating competitive imbalances.
As the 2026 MLB season progresses, the conversation surrounding the two-way player rule continues to evolve, with managers and analysts weighing the competitive implications of roster flexibility for teams possessing such versatile athletes.
For ongoing updates on MLB roster rules and their impact on team strategies, continue following trusted sports coverage.
