Scottsdale, Arizona: Cubs President Jed Hoyer Admires Craig Counsell and Makes a Managerial Change to Improve the Team

In a surprising move, Cubs team president Jed Hoyer decided to make a managerial change despite being satisfied with David Ross. Hoyer has always admired Craig Counsell, the manager of the Milwaukee Brewers, from afar. He saw Counsell as the best manager in the game, excelling in in-game moves, clubhouse management, and media handling.

Initially, Hoyer didn’t plan to pursue Counsell as he believed he would return to the Milwaukee Brewers. However, as Counsell remained on the market, Hoyer’s interest grew. Recognizing the opportunity to improve in a significant area, Hoyer reached out to Counsell on November 1st, arranging a secretive meeting in the Chicagoland area.

To ensure the meeting remained confidential, Hoyer was the only person to meet with Counsell, keeping it separate from the Cubs’ offices. The two had a productive discussion, paving the way for a potential deal. In the following days, Counsell also met with the New York Mets and Cleveland Guardians while staying in contact with the Brewers.

Hoyer’s optimism grew as he believed they were close to reaching a financial agreement with Counsell. Ultimately, on Sunday morning, the deal was finalized, making Counsell the Cubs’ new manager. The team’s president successfully poached the best manager in the game from a division rival, securing Counsell with a five-year deal worth over $40 million. The move allowed Counsell to remain close to his family in the Midwest.

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Impact on the Cubs Roster and Future

With the addition of Counsell, the Cubs aim to improve their performance and maximize their potential. Last season, the team won 83 games, indicating the need for improvement. However, the roster currently faces challenges with impending free agency departures of Marcus Stroman and Cody Bellinger.

While the Cubs plan to be active in the upcoming winter market, the hiring of Counsell doesn’t guarantee a dominant performance in free agency. The team acknowledges the need for improvements and will make strategic moves accordingly. Counsell’s decision to join the Cubs is based on the team’s rapid improvement and long-term potential rather than immediate success.

The Cubs possess a strong MLB roster, promising young talent in their farm system, and significant financial flexibility. While they will utilize their financial resources in the coming years, they are aware of the limitations of the current free-agent class, especially regarding position players.

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Coaching Staff and Team Dynamics

The hiring of Counsell raises questions about the Cubs’ coaching staff and team dynamics. While many of the current coaches are under contract for the next season and beyond, their future under Counsell’s leadership remains uncertain. The hope is to retain the majority of the coaches, considering their expertise and previous success.

One key consideration is how Counsell will shape his coaching staff. The Cubs have a highly regarded pitching coach in Tommy Hottovy and found stability in the hitting coach position. Counsell’s long history with his bench coach in Milwaukee, Pat Murphy, adds another element of potential change.

Defections within the coaching staff are possible, particularly from those loyal to Ross. Murphy, who managed Counsell at Notre Dame and has a history with Hoyer, could find himself in Chicago if he doesn’t secure the managerial position in Milwaukee.

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The Cubs’ Message and Future Outlook

By hiring Counsell, the Cubs have sent a clear message about their team’s trajectory. The move represents a significant step forward for the organization, as they poached the best manager in baseball from a division rival. With Counsell at the helm, the Cubs are positioning themselves as a rising team that will contend for years to come.

While there are still uncertainties regarding the roster and coaching staff, the Cubs have confidence in the current MLB roster, promising prospects, and financial flexibility. They recognize the need for improvements and will continue making strategic moves to enhance the team’s competitiveness.

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