Craig Counsell on Moisés Ballesteros: "He has a gift to hit"

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 18 hours ago

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell speaks to the media ahead of first pitch Tuesday at Wrigley Field about the decision to call up top prospect Moisés Ballesteros, the optimism about when outfielder Ian Happ can return to the lineup and much more.

Watch the pregame video below:

Video summary/cliff notes:

(00:01) Ian Happ Injury: Happ placed on the injured list; team has a string of right-handed pitchers coming up, providing DH opportunities for others.

(01:05) Injury Management Strategy: Happ will rest for 4–5 days to avoid repeated daily assessments; aiming for a minimal IL stint.

(01:37) Tyson Injury Update: Tyson took a comebacker to the calf and is sidelined; not expected to be out long but needs removal from competition.

(02:36) Praise for Moisés Ballesteros: Counsell highlights Ballesteros as a natural hitter who’s consistently performed at a young age—calling it “a gift to hit.”

(03:22) Optimism About Happ's Return: The IL move was to avoid day-by-day uncertainty; team hopes to have him back in 10 days.

(04:41) Ballesteros' Role: While primarily up for DH, catching isn't ruled out. The team has two catchers performing well, so Ballesteros is unlikely to catch soon.

(05:08) Development Opportunity: Ballesteros will participate in pregame meetings with catchers and pitchers to build familiarity and prep for future catching duties.

(06:08) Catching Experience is Limited: Counsell notes Ballesteros hasn’t caught many games professionally but is progressing well; catching reps are still important for his development.

(06:58) Pete Rose Mention: Counsell briefly reacts to Pete Rose news, supporting his Hall of Fame candidacy and noting the changing landscape of gambling in pro sports.