WATCH: Craig Counsell reacts to Shaw's call-up, updates injuries |
Tony Crumpton
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- 5 hours ago
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell met with the media ahead of the series opener in Miami to talk about Matt Shaw's growth in Triple-A, as well as updates on Shota Imanaga and Ian Happ's injury recovery processes.
Watch the pregame video below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00) Matt Shaw’s Call-Up: Counsell explains the decision was based on Shaw playing well in the minors and struggles at third base. Shaw had about 75 plate appearances during his time down and earned another opportunity.
(00:59) Player Development: Counsell emphasizes that Shaw’s growth will continue, with adjustments and setbacks being part of the learning process.
(01:21) Injury Update - Yency Almonte (referred to as "Ianaga"): Shaw will likely begin mound work by the end of next week. Return to MLB action is projected to be sometime in June due to the seriousness of the injury.
(02:27) Cody Bellinger Status: Optimism that Bellinger (referred to as "the half") will be activated soon, possibly during the current series, following a strong weekend and continued good progress.
(02:56) Managing Oblique Injuries: Counsell discusses the difficulty in trusting player and medical feedback with oblique injuries, noting you can’t always be certain of full recovery.
(03:42) Decision-Making Process: The decision to activate a player involves balancing player feedback, medical advice, and experience.
(04:03) Injury Risk Acknowledgment: Injuries are unpredictable, but if a player shows signs of being healthy after a deliberate return process, it’s time to let them play.
(04:25) Seiya Suzuki’s Defense: Counsell praises Suzuki for excellent defensive work in left field, noting a strong week.
(04:51) Returning to Miami: Counsell reflects on the 2016 World Series win and acknowledges some nostalgia, though lessened by the different ballpark setting.
