Roberts Fires Back at Counsell Over ‘Ohtani Roster Exception’ Criticism

Cubs manager Craig Counsell called the rule that benefits the Dodgers “bizarre,” and Dave Roberts wasn’t having any of it. Roberts made no apologies for the so-called “Ohtani roster exception” that helps our roster flexibility around Shohei Ohtani. Can’t blame us for a rule that exists — if other teams don’t like it, take it up with the league office. Counsell’s frustration is understandable, but we’re not going to apologize for using every advantage available to us. This was reported by staff at the Los Angeles Times.

Source(s): Staff (Los Angeles Times) | First reported: April 21, 2026 4:27 PM UTC