WATCH: Craig Counsell reflects on start of 2025 season |
Tony Crumpton
-
- 11 hours ago
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell addresses the media Tuesday ahead of their game against the Pittsburgh Pirates to discuss the team's tough schedule to start the 2025 MLB season and look ahead toward the first series against an NL Central opponent.
Watch the pregame video below: Video summary/cliff-notes: (00:00–00:22) Counsell reflects that while the toughest stretch of the schedule is behind them, the team has earned its record and played well so far, but that doesn’t guarantee future success. (00:46–01:42) He emphasizes how the grind of the baseball season keeps players grounded—there's always another game, so there’s little time to get too high or too low emotionally. (01:42–02:22) Counsell praises Pirates pitcher Andrew Heaney, noting his excellent command of the strike zone and ability to place pitches where he wants. (02:22–02:45) On lineup changes: Counsell discusses moving Dansby Swanson and Carson in the batting order and adding Michael Busch against the lefty based on matchups and performance. (03:13–03:31) Dansby Swanson is in a hitting slump but is known for streaky offense; his defense remains exceptional. (03:31–04:15) Kyle Tucker’s presence helps the offense by getting on base consistently, increasing pressure on pitchers and creating RBI opportunities. (04:49–05:08) Counsell praises the team’s offensive output so far, which ranks among the best in baseball, but stresses the need for consistent at-bats and good pitch selection. (05:35) Moisés (likely Moisés Ballesteros or another top prospect) is performing well in Triple-A, and the team is encouraged by his development. No specific call-up date mentioned.
