WATCH: Craig Counsell previews upcoming Japan Trip |
Tony Crumpton
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- Tuesday, March 11 2025
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell jumped on the broadcast during the game from spring training talking about the excitement level of traveling to Japan for the MLB Tokyo Series, when Counsell decided to hang up his football career and much more.
Watch the dugout interview below: Video summary/cliff-notes: (00:00) Craig Counsell joins the broadcast during Cubs spring training to discuss the team's upcoming trip to Japan. (00:27) Counsell views the trip as a unique team bonding experience and an opportunity to compete against top Japanese teams and the world champion Dodgers. (00:59) Many players, including Counsell, are excited about experiencing Japanese culture for the first time. (01:32) He jokes about preferring a trip to Japan over corporate-style bonding activities like laser tag. (01:59) The trip has created a sense of urgency in training, helping both players and staff prepare faster. (02:35) A lighthearted moment occurs when a childhood photo of Counsell is shown, featuring him with baseball legends in 1983. (03:08) Counsell reminisces about his youth sports days, including playing running back in football before quitting due to concussions. (04:15) The Cubs' catching situation is expected to be a 50/50 split between Kelly and Amaya unless one player takes control. (04:59) He notes differences in Japanese stadiums, such as bullpen placement and batting practice routines. (05:30) Counsell expresses excitement about playing against Japanese MLB teams before signing off.
