Shohei Ohtani Emerges as Cy Young Contender Amid Rule Controversy

Shohei Ohtani is drawing significant attention as an early 2026 Cy Young Award contender, with his pitching performance and ERA serving as critical factors for the Dodgers' success. While Ohtani continues to dominate as a dual-threat asset, he remains at the center of league-wide discussions. Cubs manager Craig Counsell recently reiterated his stance that the "Shohei Ohtani Rule" is a "bad rule," though he clarified his criticism is directed at the regulation itself rather than Ohtani.