WATCH: Craig Counsell talks Sammy Sosa's visit, alumni impact

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Wednesday, February 26 2025

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell spoke before the game to discuss how impactful Sammy Sosa's presence is in Mesa, how former Cubs players help out with current development and more.

“Part of the great thing about baseball, and specifically Cubs baseball, is the history,” Counsell said about Sosa and other Cubs alumni. “And to understand the history is important. I think we learn from it. We appreciate it. And the Cubs have a wonderful history.”

Counsell wants his players to ask questions to Sosa another other Cubs greats.

“We just ask our players to just have conversations,” Counsell said. “I think you gain from the experience. Sammy spent a lot of time in the box and people designing ways to try to get him out. Just that knowledge and experience from the batter’s box is a lot to offer.”

Watch the interview below:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00) Craig Counsell discusses Sammy Sosa’s visit, mentioning that he arrived around game time and spent the morning in the batting cages with players.

(00:31) Counsell emphasizes the value of former players sharing their experiences, particularly Sosa’s insights from his time in the batter’s box.

(01:04) The presence of Cubs alumni, including Shawon Dunston and Mark Grace, fosters learning and appreciation for the franchise's history.

(01:37) Counsell highlights the importance of understanding and appreciating Cubs history through interactions with former players.

(02:36) Discussion shifts to pitching, noting that this was the second appearance for a pitcher, with the first being a simulated game. The team is monitoring pitch counts around 45.