Craig Counsell was once beloved by Brewers fans aplenty, leading the franchise to heights unseen for the better part of three decades in his role as manager. Now, he’s become the most hated man in Milwaukee.
Following a nine-year stint with the Brew Crew, a team he also suited up for as an MLB player, Counsell bailed for hated division rival Chicago. The manager returned to his former home stadium on Memorial Day, and his welcome was a cold one!
Boos rained down from the seats at American Family Field while the organization attempted to honor the accomplishments of seasons past. A tribute video of Counsell’s success was flashed across the scoreboard, but the reaction mirrored that of a scorned party betrayed by a trusted companion.
Take a listen.
Tribute video did not go well. pic.twitter.com/Oef0iLR6ME
— Dominic Cotroneo (@Dom_Cotroneo)
Craig Counsell, a Milwaukee native, coached the Brewers between 2015 and 2023. Over that time, he led the team to five playoff appearances, three 90-win campaigns, and a trio of division titles. His 2018 bunch came a game away from the World Series before falling four-games-to-three to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Despite being the winningest coach in franchise history, he bolted for a lucrative contract with the Cubs this past offseason. There’s certainly no love lost between Counsell and Milwaukee fans!
What would your message to Craig Counsell be?
The Cubs visit the Brewers today for the first time since Craig Counsell switched teams…#ThisisMyCrew pic.twitter.com/9g9EKbfQGf
— ESPN Milwaukee (@ESPNMilwaukee)
Adding insult to injury, Counsell accepted that deal over a standing offer from the Brewers that would’ve made him the MLB’s highest paid manager.
That decision had everyone around the organization in shock.
“When he first told me, I said, ‘Are you messing with me?'”
-Brewers owner Mark Attanasio
Believe it!
Despite the ties, and the unmatched success, Craig Counsell bailed. It’s pretty evident he’s not welcome back in Milwaukee!
The post Brewers’ Tribute Attempt For Former Manager Who Bailed For Hated Division Rival Goes So Poorly appeared first on BroBible.