MLB's 'Ohtani Rules' explained: Baseball benefits despite Cubs manager's complaints

Yahoo Sports2h ago18 min readOriginal source →

TL;DR

The MLB's 'Ohtani Rules' have sparked debate, particularly after Cubs manager Craig Counsell's comments suggesting preferential treatment for Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers. The discussion continues as stakeholders seek to understand the implications of these rules.

Key points

Cubs manager Craig Counsell criticized the Ohtani Rules
Debate continues over perceived preferential treatment
Dan Duquette praised Shohei Ohtani as a treasure
Rules aim to enhance the appeal of baseball

Mentioned in this story

Shohei OhtaniCraig CounsellMajor League BaseballUSA TODAY SportsDan Duquette

Chicago CubsLos Angeles DodgersMontreal ExposBoston Red Sox

No reason to end the griping, sniping and debating over the so-called "Ohtani Rules."

Not until there’s time to better understand the issue, which bubbled to the surface this week after Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell made remarks that triggered a question laced with conspiracy.

If and why are Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers getting preferential treatment from Major League Baseball?

“First of all, Ohtani is a treasure, right?" Dan Duquette, former general manager of the Montreal Expos, Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles, told USA TODAY Sports.

No debate there, and here’s what you need to know about the rules:

MLB teams are allowed to carry only 13 pitchers on their active 26-man roster, with one exception. Teams can carry 14 pitchers if one of them qualifies as a two-way player. Ohtani, 31, is the only player in the major leagues who qualifies as a two-way player under MLB criteria (more on that later). That means the Dodgers are currently the only team that qualifies for the exception

With 14 pitchers on their roster, the Dodgers get an extra arm that rivals don't have the luxury of.

Shohei Ohtani returned to the mound in 2025 after only DHing in 2024.

Another rule introduced since Ohtani came to America allows a two-way player who has finished pitching to remain in the game as a designated hitter rather than require him to play in the field.

Duquette suggests the "Ohtani Rules" are in baseball’s best interest.

“He is the most marketable player in the game around the world," Duquette said. “So any discussion about how he is employed on the field needs to be thoughtful and take into account the workload.’’

Q&A

What are MLB's 'Ohtani Rules'?

The 'Ohtani Rules' refer to specific regulations in Major League Baseball that impact how players like Shohei Ohtani can be utilized, particularly in relation to their dual-role capabilities.

Why did Cubs manager Craig Counsell criticize the Ohtani Rules?

Counsell's criticism stems from concerns that the rules may grant preferential treatment to Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers, raising questions about fairness in the league.

How do the Ohtani Rules benefit Major League Baseball?

The Ohtani Rules are designed to enhance the game's appeal by allowing players to showcase their unique talents, potentially attracting more fans and increasing viewership.

What was Dan Duquette's opinion on Shohei Ohtani?

Dan Duquette described Shohei Ohtani as a 'treasure,' emphasizing his value to the sport and the positive impact he has on baseball.