WATCH: Craig Counsell on Cubs' hot offense and their impact

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Saturday, May 03 2025

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell met with the media ahead of game two against the Milwaukee Brewers about the Cubs' hot offense, an update on Ryan Brasier, and more.

Check out the pregame video below:

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Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00–00:50) Counsell agrees with Pete's assessment that hitting is easier in this lineup due to strong performances around him. It eases pressure when multiple players are producing, allowing individual slumps without dragging the team down.

(01:15–01:42) When asked if Pete could eventually move up in the batting order, Counsell doesn't rule it out but emphasizes that things are working well as they are, particularly with Ian Happ performing well at the top.

(02:18–03:16) On the opposing pitcher’s effectiveness despite peripheral stats, Counsell credits elite command, intelligence, and mental toughness—sticking to strengths and not giving in.

(03:43–04:18) Counsell acknowledges run differential as a meaningful stat over time but notes that game management styles today can skew small sample sizes.

(04:18–05:14) On pitcher Ben Brown’s outing, Counsell highlights how pitching with a lead helped him relax, use his fastball confidently, and learn from the experience.

(05:31–06:00) Brown’s changeup is developing; it’s a work in progress, but Counsell sees potential for it to become part of his arsenal.

(06:20–07:09) Counsell views Brown’s personal urgency to perform as healthy—it reflects the competitive nature of MLB and the constant need to prove oneself.

(07:27–07:51) He affirms that players are always informed first about any critiques or development plans, which are coordinated by the entire coaching staff.

(08:27–09:12) Counsell humorously shares a story about getting booed at the ballpark, showing he's aware of fan reactions and takes it in stride.

(09:38–10:08) Reflecting on his playing days, he mentions mild booing but notes it was never as intense as now—especially when making unpopular in-game decisions.