WATCH: Craig Counsell provides injury updates on Javier Assad, Matt Shaw, Nico Hoerner |
Tony Crumpton
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- Saturday, February 15 2025
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell spoke to the media about having the whole team together for the first time in spring training, injury updates and more.
Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
Javier Assad Injury Update (01:21): Assad has a minor oblique issue. The team is taking a slow approach, but it is responding well, and they anticipate no long-term problems. His status is day-to-day.
Matt Shaw Injury Update (00:41): Shaw was seen stretching but not doing much work. The team is managing his condition carefully.
Seiya Suzuki Communication Efforts (02:20): Counsell acknowledged a need to improve communication with Suzuki due to a language barrier and promised to work harder on that.
Nico Hoerner’s Injury (03:39): Hoerner played through arm discomfort last season. His injury didn’t heal completely because of the daily grind of baseball, but he managed to continue playing.
Positioning and Spring Training Plans (02:54): Suzuki will primarily play left and right field during spring training, rather than being used as a designated hitter.
Fumi’s Visa Issues (02:54): Suzuki’s translator, Fumi, had visa issues but is expected to arrive the following day.
Kyle Tucker’s Number Change (05:34): Counsell gave number 30 to Tucker and took number 11, inspired by Jim Leyland, whom he admired.
Handling New Acquisitions (06:11): The team is focused on making new players comfortable, particularly Kyle Tucker, who prefers a simple approach to the game.
Matt Shaw and Bregman Pursuit (06:50): No special message was given to Shaw regarding the team’s pursuit of Alex Bregman. Shaw is focused on improving his game.
Tom Ricketts' Message to the Team (07:33): The Cubs owner emphasized honoring the uniform and remembering the significance of being a Chicago Cub.
