WATCH: Craig Counsell on talented 2025 Cubs roster

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 5 hours ago

Craig Counsell spoke to the media about the Alex Bregman move to the Red Sox, expectations around any other possible free agency moves, evaluation of the roster at this time and more.

Watch the interview below:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:01) Craig Counsell acknowledges that budgets are a reality in baseball and can sometimes prevent teams from acquiring desired players. However, he emphasizes the need to move forward and focus on the team at hand.

(00:36) He mentions that roster decisions are largely out of his control, and he gets updates like everyone else.

(01:19) Counsell believes that the current Cubs roster is stronger than last year's at this time but recognizes the need for continuous improvement.

(01:52) The team is always evaluating positional flexibility during spring training to prepare for different scenarios.

(02:26) Alexander Canario may get opportunities at first base due to a lack of depth at that position and his right-handed bat.

(03:09) For Matt Shaw, the focus in spring training is on working hard daily and gaining experience, as he has progressed quickly but lacks playing time in certain positions.

(03:40) Counsell briefly touches on the organization’s financial strategies, including deferring money as a financial tool used by teams.