Cubs-Diamondbacks Clash Over Pitch Tipping Resolved

Tension between the Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks over pitch tipping eased by Tuesday night. The conflict peaked during the Cubs’ 7-0 victory on Monday. Diamondbacks were upset with Cubs third base coach Quintin Berry for relaying pitch information from cues observed on Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly.

The Cubs had studied videos prior to the series which helped Berry spot signals from his position in the third-base coach’s box. The situation escalated in the fifth inning with shouting and finger-pointing between both dugouts. Berry faced criticism from his vantage point in front of Arizona’s dugout, alongside a confrontation involving Diamondbacks bench coach Jeff Bannister and Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty. Kelly accused Berry’s actions as “bush league.” Manager Craig Counsell defended it as part of the sport’s gamesmanship.

Merrill Kelly stated, “Inside the lines is one thing. Standing outside them, it’s bush league.”

Tensions cooled before Tuesday’s game. D-backs manager Torey Lovullo apologized to Counsell, acknowledging Berry’s actions were within league rules. Bannister and Berry later resolved their dispute during a brief chat before Tuesday’s practice, ending with a handshake.

Berry intends to continue assisting his team. He compared it to past experiences of creating chaos while on base as a player. Modern tech, like PitchCom, reduces the impact runners and players once had on the game.

Berry emphasized the importance of constant study and staying sharp.

The Cubs also face pitch-tipping, most notably during Shota Imanaga’s games, including a recent bout against the Mariners. Every team seeks an edge. Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner acknowledged the frustration of having opponents exploit pitch cues.

The Cubs understand blocking opponents from detecting pitcher signals is crucial. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy stresses the responsibility lies with coaches to fix any issues. Hottovy explained how they’ve worked on controlling the running game, staying unpredictable, and addressing pitch tipping since spring training.

Hottovy said, “It’s about maintaining control and being proactive.”

The Cubs continue to ensure their pitchers refine these skills, highlighting it as a key focus throughout the season. Preparing alternative strategies helps counteract any advantage opponents might gain, ensuring all teams work diligently to maintain a competitive edge.