WATCH: Craig Counsell praises Cubs hitter's discipline

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 18 hours ago

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell met with the media before the series finale against the San Diego Padres about his team's high walk rate at the plate, provides an injury update on Javier Assad and more.

Watch the pregame video video:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00–00:37) Counsell highlights that drawing walks is a result of battling through at-bats and being patient—waiting for pitches hitters want to hit, not just what’s offered.

(00:37–01:07) He references standout games vs. Springs (Oakland) and Pivetta where Cubs hitters showed discipline by not chasing tough pitches that look like strikes early but break out of the zone.

(01:07–01:40) Emphasizes that patient hitting is “good offense” and it's about doing that every day.

(01:40–02:16) Adds that walks and athletic base running complement each other—Cubs are creating runs and adding pressure by getting on base and running effectively.

(02:16–02:56) On Kyle Tucker's influence: says no single person is setting the tone; each hitter, like Kyle Hendricks, has their own unique approach.

(02:56–03:36) Updates on Javier Assad: doing well, next outing in Arizona, could move to an affiliate soon if progress continues.

(03:36–04:20) Discusses potential impact of new "torpedo bat": players seek even a 1% edge, and if it feels good and shows results, players will likely adopt it.

(04:20–05:05) Pays tribute to longtime clubhouse manager Tom "Otis" Helman, honored with a plaque. Describes behind-the-scenes staff as vital and deeply valued by generations of players.

(05:05–06:52) Reflects on the early season stretch: despite a tough April schedule and post-Japan trip, the team is in good health and has built a solid foundational 10 days—especially with effective pitching usage.