BREAKING: The Chicago Cubs have fired David Ross and hired Craig Counsell as new manager
The Chicago Cubs have replaced David Ross as their manager and have hired former Brewers manager Craig Counsell.
The Chicago Cubs are hiring Craig Counsell as their manager, sources tell ESPN.
A blockbuster move for Chicago, which had David Ross as their manager but will now go with Counsell, who had spent the previous decade with their division rival Milwaukee. @Ken_Rosenthal was on it.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 6, 2023
This is an absolutely massive move for the Cubs since Counsell has coached division rival Milwaukee Brewers since 2015. In his past nine years as the manager of the Brewers, Counsell has compiled a 707-625 record while making the playoffs five times. He also finished second in NL manager of the year voting in 2018, 2019, and 2021.
In a season where the Chicago Cubs should’ve made the playoffs, it was clear something needed to change. Most fans might’ve expected a couple free-agency moves to acquire some better bats or relief arms, but no one saw the hiring of Craig Counsell coming, nonetheless the firing of David Ross.
David Ross was hired as the manager for the 2020 season. Ross has long been known to have a good relationship with the Cubs organization after being a player on the 2016 World Series team. It is unclear what Ross’ next move is, but many speculate he will become a MLB analyst and/or sports TV personality.
The signing of Counsell could also have big free-agency implications for the team. It’s clear that the Cubs are just a couple pieces away from potentially become a World Series caliber team. With the signing of Counsell, who is regarded as one of the best coaches in the MLB, this may be a big selling point to land free agents. You can’t tell me playing for Craig Counsell in Chicago wouldn’t be attractive for a guy like Shohei Ohtani.
As for Counsell’s contract, he will sign a five-year contract worth 40 million dollars. Making him the highest paid manager in the league.
Craig Counsell’s Cubs deal is the largest managerial salary in history by average salary
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 6, 2023
Cubs to make Craig Counsell highest paid manager in MLB, per reports
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Craig Counsell is a former Major League Baseball player who had a successful career as an infielder , primarily with the Milwaukee Brewers. He was known for his versatility and defensive prowess. After retiring as a player, Counsell became the manager of the Milwaukee Brewers and led the team to multiple playoff appearances during his tenure.
The Milwaukee Brewers are a professional baseball team based in Milwaukee , Wisconsin, and they compete in Major League Baseball (MLB). The team was established in 1969 as an expansion franchise. The Brewers have had a storied history, with notable players and several postseason appearances, including a World Series appearance in 1982.
The Chicago Cubs are one of the oldest and most iconic franchises in Major League Baseball , dating back to 1876. They are based in Chicago, Illinois, and play their home games at Wrigley Field, known for its historic charm and the ivy-covered outfield walls.