Dave Roberts supports Ohtani’s role as a two-way player following Counsell’s comment

DENVER –– The Dodgers and Cubs are set to clash for the first time this season, but Cubs manager Craig Counsell is already looking ahead.

On Monday, responding to questions about MLB rules limiting teams to 13 pitchers, Counsell took a shot at the Dodgers and their four-time MVP, Shohei Ohtani. He noted that while Ohtani is considered a two-way player, it’s strange that this allows him to count towards the pitcher limit, which he described as “weird.”

“In my view, this rule seems designed more to favor the offense,” Counsell remarked. He specifically pointed out the Dodgers and suggested the rule gives them a unique advantage, making it “probably the weirdest rule” that exists.

He elaborated, saying, “There isn’t another player like Ohtani, so having different rules for him feels a bit off for other teams.”

Indeed, it seems the Dodgers benefit from Ohtani’s dual-role status, which allows them to maintain a six-man rotation while still having eight relief pitchers in their bullpen this season.

However, when informed about Counsell’s comments, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was unbothered. “The reality is we have the players, so it helps us,” he said. “But any team that has Ohtani should enjoy similar benefits.”

Roberts further stated, “Other teams should definitely find players who can do both. Ohtani is an exception because he’s just that good.”

There’s no doubt that no other player can replicate Ohtani’s impact, especially not at the MVP level he consistently demonstrates. The Dodgers are well aware of this, and it’s not likely that they’ll feel the need to apologize for their advantageous position.

As they prepare for the upcoming series against the Cubs starting Friday, the Dodgers will surely look to maximize the strategic flexibility Ohtani provides.