Coaching Carousel: Counsell Joins Cubs

11/07/2023

By: Jeff Yoder

MLB Coaching Changes: Cubs Hire Craig Counsell Away From Brewers in Stunning Move

Didn’t see that coming… In a stunning twist to open the MLB offseason, Brewers manager Craig Counsell left to become the new manager of the division rival Cubs. That news was the first of many to break on Monday — the official beginning to MLB free agency and the offseason. Counsell spent nine seasons with Milwaukee, but he’ll become the highest-paid manager in MLB with a 5-year, $40 million deal. He was one of three coaches to find a new home on Monday. Four total manager jobs have been filled, and four vacancies remain.

MLB Coaching Changes

Craig Counsell (Brewers) → Cubs

Counsell’s move to Chicago is even more shocking considering he played for Milwaukee at the end of his playing career. He’s beloved by Brewers fans, but he’ll now coach the rival Cubs south of Wisconsin. Counsell was regarded as the top managerial candidate available this offseason, and many speculated he would land with the Mets.

Stephen Vogt (Retired Player) → Guardians

Terry Francona’s retirement left a void in Cleveland, and the Guardians are stepping into a new era by taking a bit of a risk. Vogt, a two-time all-star catcher, retired from playing in 2022. He spent last season as a bullpen coach in Seattle, and he has no primary managerial experience. His outgoing personality leads many to believe this is a player-friendly hire.

Carlos Mendoza (Yankees) → Mets

Many thought the Mets would land Counsell, but they hired Mendoza shortly after the news that Counsell was heading to Chicago. The 44-year-old Mendoza was the Yankees bench coach under Aaron Boone — who surprisingly still has his job. It’s Mendoza’s first stint as a head skipper, and he inherits a job with no shortage of pressure.

Bob Melvin (Padres) → Giants

The ex-Padres skipper moved up the California coast to take over the Giants following their release of Gabe Kapler in late September. This move was announced weeks ago.

Remaining MLB Coaching Vacancies: Angels, Astros, Brewers & Padres

NY Post: Who is New Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza? Meet the Ex-Yankees Coach Hired by David Stearns

Photo: Daniel Shirey / Getty Images