BREAKING: Cubs Manager Craig Counsell Shuts Down Exit Rumors — “I’m Not Leaving, and I’m Staying to Finish What We Started”

In a dramatic turn that silenced days of escalating rumors and speculation, Chicago Cubs Manager Craig Counsell addressed the media this afternoon with a firm and passionate statement that sent a clear message to fans, the front office, and baseball insiders: he’s not going anywhere.

“I’m not leaving,” Counsell declared, standing in front of reporters at Wrigley Field. “And I’m staying to finish what we started here in Chicago.”

The statement came just five minutes into an impromptu press conference hastily arranged after national outlets and online insiders speculated that Counsell, frustrated by a rocky start to the season and internal front office disagreements, was considering walking away from his position or taking a leave of absence.

Shutting Down the Noise

The rumors reached a fever pitch earlier this week following a tense post-game interview and a reported closed-door meeting with Cubs President Jed Hoyer. Speculation swirled that Counsell — lured from the Milwaukee Brewers last offseason with a record-breaking five-year, $40 million deal — was already regretting his decision to join the Cubs amid a rollercoaster season marred by injuries, underperformance, and growing pressure from a demanding fanbase.

But on Monday, Counsell put those rumors to rest with conviction.

“I signed up for this because I believe in the Cubs organization,” he said. “I believe in our players, our system, and our future. Are there challenges? Of course. But that’s why I’m here. This is not a short-term project for me. This is about building something lasting.”

A Rough Start to a New Era

Counsell’s first few months in Chicago have been anything but smooth. After a promising start to the season, the Cubs have struggled with inconsistent offense, bullpen instability, and the loss of key players like Seiya Suzuki and Miguel Amaya to the injured list. As of today, the team sits near .500, battling to stay within reach of the NL Central leaders.

While Counsell’s leadership style—known for its calm demeanor, strategic depth, and analytical grounding—was expected to bring a new edge to the Cubs, growing pains have been more pronounced than many anticipated. The pressure has mounted, especially as the Cubs invested heavily in Counsell with the expectation that he would be the spark to ignite a return to playoff contention.

“I get the frustration,” Counsell acknowledged. “I’ve heard the noise. We’re not where we want to be right now, but we’re not far off. I’m here for the ups and downs. That’s part of building something real.”

Front Office Reaction

Cubs President Jed Hoyer released a statement shortly after the press conference, backing Counsell unequivocally.

“Craig Counsell is our manager—today and going forward,” the statement read. “There has never been any doubt in our minds about his commitment or his vision. We are aligned, and we’re working together every day to bring championship-caliber baseball back to Wrigley.”

Hoyer also hinted that the team is exploring moves to bolster the roster before the trade deadline, suggesting that help may be on the way to support Counsell’s plans.

Player Support and Clubhouse Unity

Inside the clubhouse, players rallied around their manager’s public declaration.

“That’s our guy,” said shortstop Dansby Swanson. “He’s the leader we need, and him coming out and saying what he said today—it fired all of us up. We’re not quitting on this season, and neither is he.”

Catcher Yan Gomes echoed the sentiment, noting, “The energy in that room just shifted. It was like, ‘Let’s go. Time to shut everyone up and play our game.’”

Fans React with Relief and Renewed Hope

On social media, Cubs fans quickly voiced support for Counsell’s loyalty, with many saying his statement restored their confidence during a turbulent stretch. “Craig Counsell just became a Chicago guy for life,” one fan tweeted. “He didn’t just calm the storm—he owned it.”

Others expressed hope that the public commitment would mark a turning point for the team as it heads into a crucial month that could determine its postseason fate.

The Road Ahead

With his future now firmly clarified, Counsell and the Cubs can turn their attention back to the field. Though challenges remain, Monday’s moment of honesty and resolve from their manager may become a defining rallying cry for a team looking for direction.

“I’m not interested in drama or distractions,” Counsell said. “I’m interested in winning baseball games, developing talent, and bringing a championship back to Wrigley. That’s why I’m here. That’s why I’m staying.”

And with that, Craig Counsell reaffirmed not only his commitment to the Cubs—but his belief in the journey ahead.