WATCH: Craig Counsell updates latest with Cubs |
Tony Crumpton
· · Wednesday, April 02 2025
Craig Counsell spoke to the media ahead of Wednesday's game against the Athletics talking about Kyle Tucker's at-bats in recent games, Seiya Suzuki's aggressiveness at the plate and much more.
Watch the pregame interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00) Craig Counsell praises Kyle Tucker’s ability to do damage on any pitch and stay committed to his approach at the plate.
(00:39) Tucker’s approach is simple but effective—he is aggressive early in the count while still managing to draw walks.
(01:10) Seiya Suzuki has been focusing on increasing his aggressiveness at the plate, which the team believes will benefit him.
(01:46) Counsell and the team have noticed Suzuki’s more aggressive swings, which they expect will lead to positive results.
(02:20) When asked if Suzuki should take it personally when pitchers walk Tucker to face him, Counsell just hopes he gets a hit.
(02:57) Counsell highlights Jameson Taillon’s consistency as crucial to the rotation’s success last year and this season.
(03:32) Taillon is not only consistent on the mound but also a steady presence in the clubhouse.
(04:06) The Cubs are looking forward to returning to Chicago and playing at Wrigley Field for the first time this season.
(04:40) Counsell acknowledges the Tokyo trip made spring training different but enjoyable, and the team is fully into the season now.
(05:16) Despite upcoming opening ceremonies at Wrigley, Counsell insists the team is already in their normal season rhythm.
