The MLB postseason is always full of surprises and this year is no different. However, the biggest shocker so far has been the questionable pitching decisions made by managers. It all started with Aaron Boone’s decision to pull Max Fried too early in Game 1 against the Red Sox, and now Craig Counsell is facing criticism for his handling of Shota Imanaga in the Cubs-Padres Wild Card Series.
The Cubs were leading the series 1-0 and were just one win away from advancing to the next round. However, things took a turn for the worse in Game 2 when Counsell decided to let Imanaga close the game. The Japanese pitcher had been a reliable closer for the Cubs throughout the regular season, but he struggled in the playoffs. He gave up a crucial home run to the Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. and ultimately blew the lead, leading to a heartbreaking loss for the Cubs.
The decision to let Imanaga close the game has been heavily criticized by fans and experts alike. Many believe that Counsell should have gone with a more experienced pitcher in that situation, especially with the Cubs’ season on the line. But what’s more surprising is Counsell’s reaction after the game. In a post-game interview, he publicly gave up on Imanaga, stating that he will not be using him in any more high-pressure situations.
This statement from Counsell has caused quite a stir in the baseball community. Some have praised him for being honest and taking responsibility for the loss, while others have criticized him for throwing Imanaga under the bus. But one thing is for sure, this decision has put a lot of pressure on the young pitcher and has also raised questions about Counsell’s managerial skills.
It’s not the first time that Counsell has made a questionable decision in the playoffs. In 2018, he was heavily criticized for pulling Josh Hader too early in Game 1 of the NLCS against the Dodgers. The move backfired as the Dodgers went on to win the game and eventually the series. And now, with another questionable decision, Counsell’s reputation as a manager is being called into question.
But let’s not forget that Counsell has also made some bold and successful decisions in the past. In 2019, he made the bold move of starting Brandon Woodruff in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series against the Nationals. Woodruff, who had never started a postseason game before, went on to pitch a gem and helped the Brewers win the game. So, it’s clear that Counsell is not afraid to take risks, but sometimes those risks don’t pay off.
As for Imanaga, this experience will only make him stronger. He is a talented pitcher with a bright future ahead of him. Yes, he made a mistake in a crucial moment, but that’s part of the game. Every player goes through ups and downs, and it’s up to the manager to support them and help them bounce back. Counsell’s decision to publicly give up on Imanaga may have a negative impact on his confidence and could hinder his growth as a player.
In the end, it’s important to remember that managers are human too. They make mistakes just like players do. But what sets them apart is their ability to learn from those mistakes and make better decisions in the future. Counsell has proven to be a successful manager in the regular season, and it’s important to give him the benefit of the doubt in the playoffs as well.
The Cubs may have lost the Wild Card Series, but they have a talented team and a great manager. It’s important for them to learn from this experience and come back stronger next season. As for Counsell, he needs to put this behind him and focus on leading the Cubs to success in the future. After all, it’s not about the mistakes we make, but how we bounce back from them that truly defines us.
