Sometimes, it’s not the spectacular performances, but the rivalry that takes center stage. The winds of change turned into shocking waves, leaving everyone in Milwaukee stunned. The one who grew up in Whitefish Bay, Milwaukee, and had managed six regular seasons for the team just switched sides. Well, it’s Craig Counsell, the former manager of the Milwaukee Brewers who joined the Brewers rivals, the Chicago Cubs, this Monday. Counsell became the highest-paid manager in MLB history. But did the Brewers see that coming? 

Never! Craig Counsell is holding the title for the most wins in the MLB book with 707. The skipper led the Brewers to five-time playoff appearances and three NL Central titles in the last six years. He is still maintaining his name in the history books of MLB in bold by signing the highest deal worth $40 million. 

Counsell’s shocking departure from the Milwaukee Brewers

For years, the skipper managed the Brewers as his home and created a deep connection. But this shocking turn of events left fans and even Brewers’ officials shocked and disheartening. The owner, Mark Attanasio, is still processing the manager’s departure. Although he did not feel betrayed by this move to the Cubs, he didn’t see it coming.

During a press conference on Monday, Attanasio said, “Craig has lost us, and he’s lost our community also – it’s a special place to be.” As there is no feeling of betrayal, the owner revealed his first reaction after hearing it from Counsell himself. “Are you messing with me?, responded Attanasio. However, bygones are bygones, now the owner is ready to go for the new winning manager. “We plan on winning with the next manager,” said the Brewers’ owners. 

 As now Counsell just joined hands with rivals, only the time will tell what comes next in the Brewers-Cubs rivalry. However, one question remains: who can take Craig’s place?

Potential replacements for Counsell

As per the reports, the owner already started looking out for the new manager. Several former players or coaches are lined up to take the greatest manager’s position in the Brewers. 

Read More: Craig Counsell To Bob Melvin: Top Candidates Who May Replace Buck Showalter As New York Mets Manager

The list includes the former SF Giants manager Gabe Kapler, the former Brewers player, Rickie Weeks or the current bench coach, Pat Murphy. Attanasio already started looking out for the qualities Brewers players want in their manager.

Over the next few weeks and months, the team will focus on securing a new manager and making preparations for the Opening Day scheduled on March 28, 2024.

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