Dodgers' Dave Roberts visibly frustrated with Blue Jays' George Springer questioning Shohei Ohtani rule

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer drew the attention of Dodgers manager Dave Roberts Wednesday after approaching home plate umpire Dan Bellino to question the amount of warmup time allotted to two-way star Shohei Ohtani.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, typically composed, watched the exchange from the dugout with visible frustration, shaking his head in disapproval as Springer spoke with the umpire.

Ohtani, the only player in Major League Baseball who both hits and pitches regularly, faces unique challenges, including warming up on the mound after serving as the team’s designated hitter.

His dual role has occasionally led to complaints from opposing teams, who feel he receives “special treatment.”

Ohtani’s two-way status also allowed the Dodgers to carry an additional pitcher on their postseason roster, highlighting the advantage his versatility provides.

During Wednesday’s game, Springer’s actions underscored the lingering concerns some teams have regarding Ohtani receiving extra time to prepare on the mound.

Despite some struggles with command in his second start of the 2026 season, Ohtani limited the damage to a single unearned run, allowing four hits over six innings with one walk and two strikeouts.

Toronto kept the series finale competitive, preventing the Dodgers from sweeping the World Series runners-up and snapping their own six-game losing streak.

This is not the first time the Blue Jays have voiced concerns over Ohtani’s warmup routines.

In Game 7 of the 2025 World Series at Rogers Centre, manager John Schneider similarly raised objections after Ohtani was permitted extended preparation time following an at-bat, exceeding the standard 90 seconds typically allowed.

With tensions still simmering between the two clubs following last year’s dramatic Fall Classic, Springer’s questioning added another chapter to the ongoing debate over Ohtani’s unique two-way responsibilities.

Also read on Blue Jays Central :
Philadelphia Phillies acquire former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Steward Berroa