The Chicago Cubs have made a bold move by replacing manager David Ross with Craig Counsell. While this decision was not taken lightly, Cubs president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, believes it is in the best interest of the fan base. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this decision and analyze the potential impact Counsell can have on the team.
A Hard Decision with Fan Base Considerations
According to Hoyer, the decision to let go of Ross and hire Counsell was a challenging one. However, he believes it is necessary for the sake of the fan base. This indicates that the organization values the satisfaction and support of their fans. By delivering on-field success, the Cubs aim to maintain a strong connection with their supporters.
Exploring the Opportunity
Hoyer explains that the idea of hiring Counsell started to grow when he became aware of the manager’s availability. Counsell was entertaining offers from other teams, including his former team, the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs seized the opportunity to sign him to a five-year, $40 million deal. This strategic move demonstrates the Cubs’ commitment to making crucial decisions and capitalizing on opportunities when they arise.
A Select Group in the Know
The Cubs kept the potential hiring of Counsell under wraps. Only a few members of the organization, including owner Tom Ricketts, were aware of the possibility. This suggests a high level of confidentiality and strategic planning within the Cubs organization. By keeping this decision discreet, they were able to execute a seamless transition.
The Top Game Manager
Hoyer holds Counsell in high regard, touting him as one of the best managers in the game. He attributes this assessment to Counsell’s ability to consistently outperform expectations. The Cubs hope that Counsell’s exceptional managerial skills will lead to success in both the short and long term. Despite Ross’s contributions to the organization, Hoyer firmly believes that Counsell is a step above.
Hoyer’s appreciation for Counsell began in 2017 when the Cubs competed against the Brewers for the NL Central crown. Although the Cubs ultimately emerged victorious, the Brewers consistently made significant progress. Counsell’s ability to maximize the potential of his roster, even with a lower payroll, caught Hoyer’s attention. The Cubs aspire to benefit from Counsell’s managerial prowess and replicate the Brewers’ success.
Emphasizing Regular Season Performance
While Counsell may not have a World Series appearance to his name, Hoyer emphasizes the value of consistent regular season performance. He believes that the ability to excel over the long haul demonstrates a manager’s true skills. Hoyer draws inspiration from former football coach Bum Phillips’ description of Bear Bryant, suggesting that Counsell’s approach aligns with the same philosophy of consistently outperforming expectations.
Counsell’s talent for maximizing a roster’s potential takes on added significance in the era of three wild-card teams. Hoyer points out that in the past four seasons, the lowest-seeded team in the National League has made it to the World Series each year. Making the playoffs has become more critical than ever, and the Cubs believe that Counsell’s abilities give them a better chance of securing postseason success.
The Cubs made Counsell the highest-paid manager since Joe Torre’s tenure with the Yankees over a decade ago. Hoyer justifies this by highlighting the immense challenges of the managerial role. Managers must navigate the complexities of people management, strategy, and handling the spotlight as the face of the franchise. Counsell has proven himself exceptional in these areas, making his substantial salary justified in the eyes of the Cubs’ organization.
Future Plans
While the hiring of Counsell is a significant move, Hoyer downplays the idea that it signals a grandiose offseason for the Cubs. The team will explore opportunities in the free agent and trade markets, but they will not make hasty or overly aggressive moves for the sake of it. They remain committed to the goal of sustained success and will only make moves that align with their long-term strategy.
A Bright Future for David Ross
Replacing Ross was an unavoidable yet unfortunate part of this decision. Hoyer acknowledges Ross’s contributions to the Cubs, expressing his admiration for the former manager. Despite being let go, Ross’s bright future in the game is emphasized, assuring fans that he will make a successful transition and have a long and prosperous career.
The hiring of Craig Counsell as the new manager of the Chicago Cubs is a decision aimed at maximizing the team’s potential and delivering success to the fan base. With his track record and exceptional managerial skills, the Cubs hope Counsell will guide them to victory in the short and long term. While the decision to part ways with David Ross was difficult, it underscores the organization’s commitment to making bold choices to achieve their goals. Only time will tell if this move pays off, but the Cubs are optimistic about the future under Counsell’s leadership.
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