Roberts responded indirectly to Counsell’s comments, saying: “The thing is it certainly benefits us because we have the player… We’re more than willing for other teams to go out and find a player who can do both. He’s an exception because he’s an exceptional player. It is what it is.”

Roberts’ remarks were shared by Fabian Ardaya, who asked the Los Angeles Dodgers manager about Counsell’s earlier comments ahead of a game in Los Angeles. Counsell had not only labeled the “Ohtani rule” as bizarre, but also questioned his understanding of it, suggesting it creates a notable advantage for the Dodgers.

What Counsell said about the Ohtani rule

For Counsell, the rule gives teams like the Dodgers a unique edge when they have a player like Ohtani, allowing him to contribute both offensively and defensively under special conditions. However, the rule is not exclusive to Los Angeles, as any team can benefit from it if they roster a qualifying two-way player, such as Shota Imanaga for the Cubs.

“I’ve never understood it,” Counsell said. “It’s an offensive rule, essentially. It’s a rule to help offense, more than anything, if you ask me. And then there’s one team that’s allowed to carry basically one of both, and he gets special consideration, which is probably the most bizarre rule. For one team.”

MLB’s two-way player rule allows versatile players like Ohtani to pitch and hit without taking up a traditional pitcher roster spot. To qualify, a player must log at least 20 innings pitched and appear in at least 20 games as a hitter with three or more plate appearances over the current or previous two seasons. This designation effectively gives teams added roster flexibility when deploying elite two-way talent.

The Japanese star, in doing so, matched the achievement of “Wee” Willie Keeler, posting the third-longest streak in Dodgers history since 1900. Ohtani firmly etches his name into the franchise’s all-time history.

“I was hoping he’d get that last at-bat and give him an opportunity to change the game,” manager Dave Roberts said to the press. “And he found a way to get on base. It was good to see it, and that’s quite the streak. And you’ve got to be pretty dang good to do something like that. He’s in a class by himself.”

Dodgers nearly let the game slip away

The Colorado Rockies defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday night. Despite early home runs from Kyle Tucker and Dalton Rushing that gave the Dodgers a 3-1 lead, Colorado’s bullpen shut them down for the final seven innings.

The game finally was decided in the sixth inning when Troy Johnston hit a clutch two-run double to put the Rockies ahead for good.

More records for Ohtani

Since joining the franchise, Shohei Ohtani has completely rewritten the Dodgers’ record books. He holds the single-season franchise record for home runs (55) and extra-base hits (99), and he famously became the first player in MLB history to achieve a 50/50 season (54 HRs and 59 SBs) in 2024.

“Twenty minutes before first pitch, he said, ‘Hey, go hit a home run today.’ I said, ‘Alright Sho, I got you.’ Sure enough, it happened in my last at-bat,” Rushing told Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain following the victory.

Rushing’s blast provided the exclamation point on a contest that was already well in hand, ending in an 8-2 rout. The young catcher didn’t just provide the fireworks; he turned in a massive box-score performance against the New York pitching staff. Finishing 2-for-4 with four RBIs and two runs scored, Rushing solidified himself as the standout performer in Wednesday’s finale.

While Edwin Diaz raised concerns for the Dodgers, the real story remains the sheer depth of the Los Angeles roster. Manager Dave Roberts continues to find production from every corner of the clubhouse, a luxury that has separated the Dodgers from the rest of the league early this season.

Is Ohtani pacing toward another MVP campaign?

Ohtani remains the perennial focal point of the MVP conversation. By continuing to redefine the boundaries of the sport, he has made it nearly impossible to discuss the greatest players in baseball history without mentioning his name first.

Currently, Ohtani is slashing .254/.402/.508 with a .910 OPS, figures that mirror his previous MVP-winning campaigns. Through 64 at-bats, he has tallied five home runs and 16 hits, proving to be the engine that drives the high-powered Dodgers offense.

Rushing’s historic start to the season

In just his second big-league season, Rushing is making a loud case for more playing time, launching four home runs in a mere 17 at-bats, trailing Ohtani by just one for the team lead. His early-season slash line of .529/.556/1.353 (1.908 OPS) with nine hits and seven runs scored is nothing short of historic for a reserve player.

Rushing’s breakout provides the Dodgers with a lethal offensive alternative in a lineup that is already among the most feared in the game. His confidence at the plate has turned him into a key asset for Roberts as the Dodgers continue their surge through the National League.

Before taking the mound, the Japanese sensation took an extended period to prepare for his start. As Springer waited at the dish, he engaged in a heated-looking discussion with the home plate umpire.

While fans initially speculated that the Blue Jays veteran was frustrated with Ohtani’s delay, a prominent MLB insider has now shed light on what actually transpired.

“I was told by two people directly involved this morning that Springer was not complaining at all,” MLB insider Ken Rosenthal revealed. “George Springer was simply asking the home plate umpire for clarification that Shohei Ohtani indeed gets more time to warm up.”

With those details emerging, a situation that set social media ablaze appears to have been a simple misunderstanding. Regardless of the optics, the Blue Jays secured a much-needed win as they continue to navigate a roster decimated by a massive early-season injury list.

Dodgers’ manager weighed in

Despite the clarification that Springer wasn’t acting out of frustration, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also weighed in on the logistics surrounding his two-way superstar.

“Since the World Series, there have been comments around how much time Ohtani gets to ready himself to pitch after hitting,” Roberts told reporters. “But he’s been on the basepaths, so there should be some grace, which I think the umpires try to give him. If you’re on the other side, of course, you’d want to rush it.“

Roberts’ comments only added fuel to the fire on social media, where fans continue to debate whether the league offers Ohtani or the Dodgers preferential treatment. Controversy aside, the reality remains that the Blue Jays walked away with the win.

Ohtani is still recovering from an elbow procedure in September 2023, and the Dodgers are limiting his starts early in the season. “The Dodgers are taking a conservative approach with Ohtani to keep him healthy,” reported Katie Woo of The Athletic, emphasizing the team’s focus on long-term performance over immediate numbers.

The two-way star didn’t pitch in 2024 and appeared in only 14 regular-season games last year. While he performed well, the Dodgers are deliberately spacing out his starts and monitoring his innings to maximize his impact in October, ensuring he is fully prepared for the postseason, after Ohtani’s 11-K outing shifted from Spring Training test to Dodgers necessity.

Managing Ohtani’s workload strategically

The Dodgers are balancing Ohtani’s dual roles as a pitcher and hitter carefully. By spacing out his starts and monitoring his innings, they aim to reduce fatigue while still leveraging his unique abilities. This measured approach reflects a broader philosophy: the team isn’t holding him back out of fear, but rather engineering his availability for maximum impact in critical games.

Postseason preparation over regular-season stats

While Ohtani’s early-season numbers may not reflect his full talent, the strategy ensures he peaks at the right moment. The Dodgers are confident that when October arrives, their two-way star will be at his best, both on the mound and at the plate, giving Los Angeles a key advantage in the playoff race. The plan is less about immediate statistics and more about ensuring dominance when it matters most.

According to MLB.com, manager Dave Roberts said, “He’s ready to go,” after Ohtani showed sharper intensity and execution in the Spring Training finale against the Los Angeles Angels.

The right-hander allowed three runs over four-plus innings but demonstrated command and the ability to overpower hitters, and afterward Roberts revealed the blueprint for Shohei Ohtani’s first Dodgers start.

Ohtani struck out six straight between the second and fourth innings, using a mix of pitches that included a curveball Roberts said helped “slow hitters down.” His ability to handle both left- and right-handed bats suggests he’s prepared for a larger role as the Dodgers navigate early-season injuries.

From buildup phase to immediate impact

Ohtani’s outing reflected more than routine spring work. After spending the offseason focused on strength rather than rehab, he appears physically ready and mentally sharper from months studying the game from the sidelines.

Dodgers rotation now depends on Ohtani

The Dodgers’ pitching situation has forced a shift in approach. With Snell and Stone expected to miss time, the team has limited flexibility and must rely more heavily on available arms.

Roberts acknowledged the challenge, noting the team must manage workloads carefully while still covering innings. Ohtani, who has identified 25 starts as an ideal target this season, now becomes a key piece in stabilizing both the rotation and a bullpen expected to carry a heavy load early.

Roberts has already laid out the blueprint for the two-way superstar’s season debut. “Shohei Ohtani won’t pitch more than seven innings in his first start,” Roberts said, cited by Dodgers Nation.

For the Guardians, the challenge remains daunting; they’ll spend the next week prepping for a triple-digit heater that hasn’t lost any of its bite during the layoff.

Despite the fans’ eagerness to see Ohtani “toe the rubber” on Day 1, the assignment naturally falls to Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the reigning World Series MVP. However, Ohtani won’t be idle; he’ll be anchored at the top of the lineup doing what he does best, punishing baseballs.

While Ohtani looks locked in, Roberts recently addressed the spring struggles of fellow countryman Roki Sasaki, noting the young right-hander is still finding his rhythm ahead of the regular season.

Ohtani’s projections: Another MVP-caliber campaign?

Ohtani enters the 2026 season looking to shake off a bittersweet World Baseball Classic. While Japan’s run ended in a stunning quarterfinal exit at the hands of eventual champion Venezuela, Ohtani’s individual performance was nothing short of legendary.

He posted a .462 average and a 1.231 OPS, tied for the tournament lead with three home runs.The momentum is expected to carry into the MLB regular season.

According to Baseball Reference projections, Ohtani is slated for a massive 2026:

Spring training: Ohtani’s arm is back

If his spring training performance is any indication, Ohtani’s pitching is back to elite form. In two spring starts spanning 8.1 innings, he flashed a 3.24 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP.

Most impressively, he fanned 15 batters and touched 99.9 MPH on the radar gun. For a Dodgers team eyeing a three-peat, those numbers are the ultimate “good omen.”

Team Venezuela also arrives in strong form after posting a 3-1 record in the group stage. However, the Venezuelan squad could not secure the top spot in Pool D after falling to the Dominican Republic in the final game of the first round.

Now, Japan and Venezuela will meet in Miami for a highly anticipated matchup with a place in the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic on the line. An early blockbuster duel between two contenders.

What happens if Team Japan loses vs Venezuela in 2026 WBC?

If Japan and Shohei Ohtani lose to Venezuela, their run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic will come to an end. The quarterfinals are played under a single-elimination format, meaning the losing team is immediately eliminated while the winner advances to the semifinals.

What happens if Team Japan wins vs Venezuela?

If Team Japan defeats Venezuela, a spot in the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic would be guaranteed. Ohtani’s squad will face the winner of Italy vs Puerto Rico for a place in the final.

Ohtani has kept a close eye on a familiar face from the opposing dugout. During a press conference at the Tokyo Dome on Wednesday, Ohtani signaled out South Korea’s Hye-seong Kim as the player he is most eager to face. “I’m keeping an eye on Hye-seong Kim,” Ohtani told reporters. “We’re Dodgers teammates and he’s a great person. We always have a great time together, and if we can put on a show in a high-stakes game, it’ll be a great opportunity for both of us.“

The upcoming clash between Japan and South Korea remains the gold standard of international rivalries. Beyond the regional bragging rights, the matchup serves as a premier showcase for MLB scouts to evaluate talent like Kim, who has found success alongside Ohtani in Los Angeles but is looking to solidify his global reputation on the international stage.

Now in his third season with the Dodgers, Ohtani’s expectations for himself remain sky-high, both in terms of on-field production and leadership. Facing a club teammate like Kim in the high-pressure environment of the WBC adds a compelling layer to a rivalry that rarely lacks for drama.

Inside Ohtani’s mental approach

Questions for the Japanese phenom during the tournament have often turned toward the discipline required to maintain his historic level of play. Whether leading the Dodgers to back-to-back World Series titles in 2024 and 2025 or anchoring the national team, Ohtani’s process remains remarkably consistent.

“Taking rest takes courage, and skipping it altogether is another form of practice,” Ohtani revealed when discussing his routine. It is this calculated approach to recovery that has allowed him to sustain an MVP-caliber workload while helping the Dodgers and Samurai Japan reach the pinnacle of the sport over the last three years.

The stage is now set for Saturday’s head-to-head matchup between Japan and South Korea. With Dodgers teammates Ohtani and Kim on opposite sides of the diamond, fans at the Tokyo Dome can expect nothing less than a masterclass in modern baseball.

Dominican journalist Yancen Pujols conducted an interview with Tatis Jr., in which he delivered a confident message and took a subtle jab at Ohtani. “Credit where credit is due. Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world right now. But even he can’t play all nine positions or bat nine times in a game,“ Tatis Jr. proclaimed.

Tatis Jr. continued, “It’s a team sport. Honestly, with the team we have, I’m not afraid of anyone. My respect to them (Team Japan). I give them full respect and honor where it’s deserved. Team USA is undeniably stacked too, but Team DR carries unmatched preparation and a relentless work ethic, leaving almost no flaws on the field.”

With these remarks, the San Diego Padres player exudes confidence as he prepares for the WBC, undeterred by the likes of Ohtani or other star players. His trust in his teammates is evident, with a clear goal to win the tournament.

How good is Team Dominican Republic with Tatis Jr. on board?

Last season, Tatis Jr. delivered an exceptional performance with the Padres, joining the exclusive 25/30 club—having achieved 25+ home runs and 30+ stolen bases—for the second time in his career.

Alongside Tatis Jr., here’s the rest of the Dominican Republic roster for the WBC:

• Catchers: Austin Wells (Yankees), Agustin Ramirez (Marlins)
• Infielders: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Blue Jays), Manny Machado (Padres), Ketel Marte (D-backs), Geraldo Perdomo (D-backs), Jeremy Peña (Astros), Junior Caminero (Rays), Carlos Santana (Guardians), Amed Rosario (Yankees)
• Outfielders: Juan Soto (Mets), Fernando Tatis Jr. (Padres), Julio Rodriguez (Mariners), Oneil Cruz (Pirates)
• Starting Pitchers: Cristopher Sanchez (Phillies), Sandy Alcantara (Marlins), Brayan Bello (Red Sox), Luis Severino (Athletics)
• Relievers: Camilo Doval (Yankees), Carlos Estevez (Royals), Seranthony Dominguez (White Sox), Wandy Peralta (Padres), Gregory Soto (Pirates), Abner Uribe (Brewers), Elvis Alvarado (A’s), Huascar Brazoban (Mets), Dennis Santana (Pirates), Juan Mejia (Rockies), Albert Abreu (Chunichi Dragons)

With such an impressive roster and the tournament fast approaching, Tatis Jr.’s comments further elevate the anticipation for the World Baseball Classic set to kick off on March 5.

Stars such as Shohei Ohtani and Kylie Tucker have helped shape a roster built to contend year after year. Their presence not only elevates performance on the field, but also underscores the franchise’s commitment to maintaining one of the league’s most competitive cores.

In the MLB, their salary landscape offers a clear signal of priorities. The names leading the earnings list represent more than individual value — they embody the organization’s long-term vision and pursuit of sustained success.

Who are the highest-paid Dodgers in 2026?

As the Dodgers head into the 2026 season with one of baseball’s most eye-catching payrolls, topping an estimated $410 million+ in luxury-tax commitments, a handful of star names dominate the team’s financial picture.

At the top stands the two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, whose massive 10-year, $700 million contract still makes him one of the highest-paid players in the game. Despite much of that sum being deferred, their structure his deal to retain elite talent while managing annual payroll figures.

Hot on Ohtani’s heels is newly acquired slugger Kyle Tucker, who agreed to a four-year, $240 million deal with LA — giving him among the largest average annual salaries in baseball and cementing his role as a cornerstone bat.

From historic contracts to strategic roster construction, the list of the Dodgers’ top earners offers a glimpse into how Los Angeles has positioned itself for sustained contention in 2026 and beyond…