WATCH: Craig Counsell on Matt Shaw's progress, Cade Horton’s growth, and roster updates

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 7 hours ago

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell met with the media ahead of the first game in the Crosstown Series at Wrigley Field about Matt Shaw's results down in Triple-A Iowa, what he's looking for in Cade Horton's first MLB start at Wrigley Field and much more.

Check out the pregame video below:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00–00:25) Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirms the organization is closely monitoring Matt Shaw's progress in Triple-A, noting he is starting to get results and is making adjustments at the plate.

(00:25–01:30) Counsell emphasizes that while Shaw is improving, the team balances player development and team needs, and won’t declare anyone “beyond certain” to be ready for a call-up.

(01:53–02:52) Counsell downplays terminology around pitching roles (like “first start”) and stresses that young pitchers should stick to attacking the strike zone and playing to their strengths regardless of conditions like wind.

(03:23–04:28) When asked about pitching routines, Counsell notes that young players adapt and refine routines by observing veterans, especially between starts.

(04:53–05:24) Counsell praises Cubs prospect Cade Horton for his competitiveness and resilience, highlighting that overcoming past adversity can be a source of growth.

(06:01–07:10) On player management and communication, Counsell says he uses a situational, player-specific approach when deciding on rest or off-days, with open dialogue being key.

(07:10–08:25) Counsell is impressed with Shane Smith’s early success as a pitcher, attributing his improvement to a grip change on his changeup and strong pitching development by the White Sox.

(08:25–09:06) Updates on Shohei Ohtani: The Cubs plan to reassess after the weekend, with a more defined plan expected Monday in Miami. He is currently on a rotational throwing schedule.

(09:06–09:42) Regarding Ian Happ, the team will evaluate his progress the following day to determine if he's ready to return to hitting by Tuesday.

(10:04–end) Counsell discusses the signing of a veteran pitcher to a minor league deal, acknowledging his past success and current struggles, with the goal of assessing and adjusting to help him regain form.