Cubs Manager Craig Counsell Reflects on Recent Struggles

Craig Counsell, the manager of the Chicago Cubs, faced questions about the team’s lineup choices. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s position as leadoff hitter came under scrutiny as the team faced the St. Louis Cardinals. Counsell responded with confidence in Crow-Armstrong’s performance, noting, “I think he’s done a nice job since he’s been there.”

This change comes as the Cubs attempt to recover from a recent slump. Crow-Armstrong’s current stats show a .190 batting average over six games but a more promising .357 on-base percentage, aided by five walks. Counsell’s lineup shifts aimed to reinvigorate the team after a challenging 10-game losing streak. Improvement was evident as the Cubs secured victories in their last two games against Pittsburgh.

As the Cubs prepared to face the Cardinals, with games broadcast nationally over the weekend, Counsell reflected on his volatile first two months as manager. Despite fan scrutiny and external pressure, Counsell emphasized the need for execution, stating, “We’ve got to make plays, and (the last two days) we made plays.”

While facing more criticism than some of his players, Counsell acknowledged the importance of finding positives amid struggles. “You have to find opportunities from it,” he explained, noting the increased vulnerability that accompanies a losing streak.

Job security seems stable for Counsell with President Jed Hoyer’s support. The players, too, back him, reminiscent of the circumstances surrounding former manager David Ross. Counsell’s mentor, Brewers manager Pat Murphy, offered insight into the resilience needed in such roles, suggesting it’s less about opposing managers and more about self-management.

In dealing with his own second-guessing, Counsell admitted it’s a regular part of managing, akin to the introspection faced by players after performance flaws. Despite criticism, Counsell remains authentic to his character. He’s not performing outbursts for the sake of appearances, even with a recent ejection in Pittsburgh.

The team’s recent challenges, compounded by injuries to key pitchers Cade Horton, Edward Cabrera, and Matthew Boyd, have impacted their performance. Counsell noted the significance of these absences, explaining, “We’re missing Starter 1, Starter 2, Starter 4 to start the season.” Nevertheless, he remains focused on recovery and adaptation.

This series against the Cardinals is seen as pivotal for the Cubs. They aim to demonstrate that their earlier successful streak is more reflective of their true potential than recent setbacks.