In a fiery postgame press conference that lit a fire under the Chicago Cubs fanbase, manager Craig Counsell didn’t hold back—offering passionate praise to the team’s brightest stars while unleashing frustration on a trio of underperformers who, in his words, “need to wake up if we’re going to play October baseball.”
“We’re Done Babying Anyone” – Counsell Sounds Off
The Cubs had just sealed a dramatic 7–5 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, capping a red-hot 10–2 stretch that has catapulted them into the NL Central lead. But instead of basking in the glow of victory, Counsell took the opportunity to double down on accountability.
“We’ve got four guys in that clubhouse who are dragging this team forward with everything they’ve got,” Counsell said, slamming his fist on the podium. “And we’ve got a few others who are just along for the ride.”
The Four Core Stars: Rising to the Challenge
Counsell didn’t hesitate to name names. According to the manager, these are the four players who have taken the Cubs “to the next level”:
Pete Crow-Armstrong – The center fielder has been on fire, slashing .311/.378/.512 with game-changing defense. “He’s not just a future star—he’s a now star,” Counsell beamed.
Shota Imanaga – The Japanese lefty has dazzled in his MLB debut season, boasting a 2.38 ERA and a league-best WHIP. “He’s been our stopper, our tone-setter, our ace,” Counsell said.
Christopher Morel – After an inconsistent 2024, Morel has been electric, hitting clutch home runs and showing leadership in the dugout. “He’s playing like he knows this is his team,” said Counsell.
Dansby Swanson – Despite injuries last year, Swanson has bounced back as the emotional anchor and defensive rock. “He’s doing it all. He’s setting the tone,” said Counsell.
Three in the Hot Seat: Counsell Demands More
But it wasn’t all celebration.
Counsell pointedly called out three players he feels “aren’t holding up their end of the deal”:
Seiya Suzuki – “You can’t be hitting .202 in May with the kind of contract and expectations he has,” said Counsell. “He knows it. Now it’s time to fix it.”
Nick Madrigal – “We need more than singles and weak grounders. If he wants to stay in this lineup, he needs to show more fight.”
Hayden Wesneski – Once considered a rotation staple, Wesneski has been shelled in recent appearances. “We’re running out of patience,” Counsell warned. “It’s a results league.”
Fanbase Reacts: “This Is What We Needed”
Social media exploded after the press conference, with many Cubs fans praising Counsell’s no-nonsense approach.
One popular fan tweet read: “FINALLY. Counsell saying what we’ve all been thinking. Hold them accountable. Let’s win this division.”
Others were more cautious: “Bold move calling players out in public. Let’s hope it fires them up and doesn’t backfire.”
A Defining Moment for 2025?
As the Cubs continue to surge, it’s clear this team is no longer satisfied with mediocrity. With rising stars, resurgent veterans, and a manager who isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers, the 2025 Chicago Cubs are starting to feel real.
And if Counsell’s press conference is any indication—this team is just getting started.