WATCH: Craig Counsell updates latest with Cubs, upcoming spring training games |
Tony Crumpton
· · Wednesday, February 19 2025
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell spoke to the media from spring training in Mesa, Ariz. talking about the lead-up to the first game of spring training on Thursday, his thoughts on the testing of the ABS system and much more.
Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00-00:31) Craig Counsell describes the final stage before spring training games begin, with live batting practice as the last step before full gameplay.
(00:31-01:06) Players are eager to compete, and this year's spring training has added urgency due to the Cubs' upcoming trip to Japan in 20 days.
(01:06-01:42) The team is focused on making each day count, treating this spring training differently from others that can feel long and drawn out.
(01:42-02:19) Counsell discusses a new replay system being tested during spring training, emphasizing that it's an experiment rather than a key preparation element.
(02:19-02:55) A lighthearted moment where Counsell and a player joke about handling young children, showing team camaraderie.
(02:55-03:39) The team has studied past shortened spring training schedules to prepare efficiently for the upcoming season and Japan trip.
(03:39-04:17) Younger players like Alexander Canario and Pete Crow-Armstrong have more to prove in spring training than veterans like Ian Happ and Dansby Swanson.
(04:17-04:54) Roster decisions are based on overall player history rather than just spring training performance, though younger players have a chance to make an impact.
(04:54-end) Counsell confirms pitcher Justin Steele’s schedule, revealing he will throw a simulated game on Friday before his first live action five days later.
