In a surprising turn of events, the Milwaukee Brewers have parted ways with long-time manager Craig Counsell, ending his nearly decade-long tenure with the franchise. The decision, announced late Monday, has left fans and analysts alike stunned, given Counsell’s role in reshaping the team into consistent contenders during his time at the helm.
Counsell, who took over as Brewers manager in May 2015, leaves behind an impressive legacy. Under his guidance, the Brewers made the playoffs five times, including a deep run to the National League Championship Series in 2018. Known for his innovative approach to managing, Counsell often maximized the potential of his roster, even when faced with injuries or limited resources.
During his tenure, the Brewers transformed from a middling team to one of the most respected franchises in Major League Baseball, regularly competing for the NL Central title. His 707 career wins as manager are the most in Brewers history.
The news of Counsell’s departure comes as a shock, especially considering the Brewers’ recent success. The team finished the 2023 season atop the NL Central with 92 wins, earning a postseason berth. While they were eliminated in the Wild Card round, expectations were high for the team’s future under Counsell’s continued leadership.
The Brewers’ front office has remained tight-lipped about the exact reasons for the decision. In a brief statement, team president David Stearns said, “Craig has been an integral part of this organization for nearly a decade, and we thank him for his contributions. Sometimes, change is necessary as we look toward the future.”
Rumors are already swirling about Counsell’s next move. As one of the most respected minds in baseball, he is unlikely to remain without a managerial position for long. Speculation has linked him to several teams, including the New York Mets and the Cleveland Guardians, both of whom are searching for a new manager.
Counsell, a Wisconsin native and former player for the Brewers, expressed gratitude in a brief statement: “Managing this team has been the honor of a lifetime. I’m proud of what we accomplished together and will always be grateful for the opportunity.”
Brewers fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment and disbelief. Many are questioning the timing of the decision, particularly as the offseason begins and key players’ futures hang in the balance.
For the Brewers, this move signals a potential shift in strategy. With core players like Corbin Burnes and Willy Adames nearing free agency, the team faces a critical juncture in its competitive window. The choice of Counsell’s replacement will likely play a significant role in shaping the franchise’s direction.
As Counsell steps away, the Brewers are left with big shoes to fill. The next manager will inherit a team with a mix of veteran talent and promising young players but will also face heightened expectations given the foundation Counsell built.
For Counsell, this marks the end of an era in Milwaukee but likely the beginning of a new chapter in his storied baseball career. Wherever he lands next, one thing is certain: his impact on the Brewers and the city of Milwaukee will not be forgotten.
In a decision that has sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball, the Milwaukee Brewers have announced the departure of their long-time manager, Craig Counsell. After nearly nine years at the helm, Counsell’s tenure, marked by consistent success and a transformation of the franchise, has come to an abrupt end.
The move comes as the Brewers look to recalibrate their approach following another playoff appearance in 2023. Despite the team’s sustained competitiveness under Counsell’s leadership, the organization has opted for a fresh direction, leaving fans and analysts puzzled about the timing and implications of this change.
Since taking over the Brewers in May 2015, Counsell has been synonymous with the team’s identity. A Wisconsin native who grew up cheering for the Brewers and later played for the team, Counsell brought a unique perspective to his managerial role.
During his time as manager, Counsell led the Brewers to five playoff appearances (2018–2021, 2023), including a franchise-record four consecutive berths from 2018 to 2021. The team also reached the National League Championship Series in 2018, falling just one win short of a World Series appearance.
Known for his strategic innovation, Counsell embraced analytics and unconventional tactics to outmaneuver opponents. His bullpen management and ability to adapt to roster constraints made him a highly regarded figure among his peers.
Counsell departs with 707 career wins, the most in Brewers history, and leaves behind a team that has consistently punched above its weight in a competitive National League.
The Brewers’ announcement of Counsell’s departure has raised eyebrows across the baseball world. While neither Counsell nor the team has provided detailed reasons for the split, it appears the decision was mutual, with both sides expressing gratitude for the partnership.
Team President Matt Arnold issued a carefully worded statement:
“Craig has been an extraordinary leader for this organization. His dedication, creativity, and passion for the game have left an indelible mark on the Milwaukee Brewers. As we move forward, we do so with immense respect for everything he has accomplished.”
Speculation has also grown that the Brewers may have sought a new voice to guide the team through its next phase, particularly as questions loom about the future of key players like Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, and Willy Adames.
As one of the most respected managers in the game, Counsell is unlikely to remain without a job for long. Early reports suggest he is a top candidate for managerial vacancies with the New York Mets and Cleveland Guardians. The Mets, under new President of Baseball Operations David Stearns—who previously worked with Counsell in Milwaukee—seem especially keen on securing his services.
Counsell’s departure also positions him as one of the most sought-after free-agent managers in recent years. With his proven track record of success, any team looking to build a contender would benefit from his leadership.
In a brief statement, Counsell expressed gratitude for his time with the Brewers:
“Managing my hometown team has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I’m proud of what we built here and grateful for the relationships and memories I’ve made along the way. Milwaukee will always hold a special place in my heart.”
The decision to part ways with Counsell has left Brewers fans grappling with a mix of emotions. Many have taken to social media to thank Counsell for his contributions while questioning the organization’s rationale.
“This feels like the end of an era,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Craig Counsell was the heart of this team. I’m not sure what the Brewers are thinking.”
For the Brewers, Counsell’s departure signals a crossroads. With several star players nearing free agency, the team faces difficult decisions about whether to invest in a roster built for immediate contention or pivot toward a rebuild.
The choice of a new manager will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future. The organization has yet to announce a timeline for the hiring process, but speculation suggests they may look for a fresh perspective to guide the team in the years ahead.
As the Brewers prepare for life after Craig Counsell, the spotlight now shifts to the front office and its next steps. Replacing a manager of Counsell’s caliber will not be easy, and the decision will undoubtedly be scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.
Meanwhile, Counsell’s legacy in Milwaukee is secure. He leaves behind a franchise in far better shape than when he arrived, having turned the Brewers into perennial contenders. Wherever he lands next, his impact on the Brewers and the city of Milwaukee will be remembered for years to come.
For the Brewers, this marks the start of a new chapter, one that will test their ability to maintain their status as one of the National League’s most consistent teams. Fans will be watching closely as the organization navigates this pivotal moment.
Leave a Reply