It would take a few bitter pills to cure fever. Right now, the Cubs need a full prescription. Their last World Series win? 2016. Last NL Pennant? Same year. Since then? Crickets. They’ve made moves this offseason and brought in some solid names, but something’s still off. According to manager Craig Counsell, the problem isn’t talent—it’s the unwillingness to make the tough, unpopular calls.
Crowd-pleasing tactics may have positive short-term impacts but be detrimental for long-term growth. The Cubs might continue their no-ring streak for a long time if they stay with their below-average performers. Well, Counsell might have indicated the same in his interview. So, where exactly are the Cubs lagging? Making tough decisions is not enough; managing the outcome is equally important. Considering the tough decisions, will they be able to bear the repercussions?
Craig Counsell is opting for tough decisions
The Cubs’ terrible offense and injury-plagued bullpen had sealed their doom in the last season. With an 83-79 record at the end of the 2024 season, they were in second place in the NL Central. It was evident last year that, when it comes to generating runs, the Cubs are essentially below average. They hit 170 home runs in 2024, which was 26 fewer than in 2023. This indicates their downhill performance with time. In this case, Counsell is correct about making a few surgeries, which might not sit well with the fans but can offer a better output in the long run.
“You’re going to have tough unpopular decisions.”
Craig Counsell on how the Cubs can become a perennial playoff team. pic.twitter.com/l40F04MTQb
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) February 28, 2025
“You’re going to have tough, unpopular decisions,” said Craig Counsell in his interview with Marquee Sports Network. What can be the potential decisions for the Cubs here? Jameson Taillon has been playing for the Cubs since 2023. In 2023, he played a total of 30 games, where he went 8-10 with a 4.84 ERA and 140 strikeouts. In 2024, he had a 12-8 record, a 3.27 ERA, and 125 strikeouts for the Cubs. While the figures improved from 2023, his fastball velocity dipped further. Hence, could trading Taillon be a better option for the Cubs? Counsell can offer a better insight here.
Do the Cubs have what it takes to make a real run?
Even when Counsell is rooting for shuffling the team, the question that arises is whether the Cubs can bear the outcome. For instance, trading or releasing an underperforming player can be effective only when a better alternative can be landed. Currently, the Cubs have one of the best farm systems in the MLB. Kevin Alcantara is the player who is worth more attention. He is the number 6 prospect for the Cubs and deserves a place on the opening roster. This spring training, he slashed a .429/.467/.571 in 6 games. Might be a good hitting alternative for an underperforming batsman in the team.
Another area that might haunt them in the future is landing Kyle Tucker by trading Isaac Paderes and Cam Smith. While veteran Kyle Tucker is significant in strengthening the hitting prowess of the Cubs, trading out Cam Smith is not a good decision. His 7 home runs and 24 RBIs were a teaser of his ability, and the Cubs just lost out on a future star to the Astros. Well, Craig Counsell is right that the Cubs need some serious and good decisions that can offer them long-term benefits.
Opening day is just about to start, and less time is left for any further shuffling in the team. Hopefully, the team can come up with a more radical and aggressive approach in the next year.
What do you think about the changes needed in the Cubs? Share your thoughts with us below.
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