Craig Counsell Makes Controversial Decision After Cubs' Loss to Mets

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated May 10, 2025 1:11 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs fell 7-2 to the New York Mets in Friday's series opener. This loss dropped Chicago to 22-17, while the win improved New York to 25-14. Both teams remain atop their respective divisions.

As the Cubs attempt to maintain their narrow two-game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Central, they'll have to push the right buttons against a Mets team that has sat atop the NL East for most of the season.

One of the decisions facing Cubs manager Craig Counsell was who to start on the mound for Saturday's contest against New York.

Speaking with reporters after Friday's loss, Counsell revealed he is giving the ball to Brad Keller on Saturday, with Cade Horton available to work out of the bullpen. Horton, who is set to make his MLB debut, was a potential candidate to start this contest.

"Keller is gonna be the starter," Counsell announced on Friday night. "Cade will be active, but we're essentially running a bullpen game."

Craig Counsell on tomorrow's starting pitcher: "(Brad) Keller's gonna be the starter. Cade will be active, but we're essentially running a bullpen game." pic.twitter.com/RE7BMKLGPk
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) May 10, 2025

This decision has been a controversial one among Cubs fans, and many have expressed that in the replies on X.

"So you’re saying don’t tune in," a fan sarcastically claimed. "Got it."

"After 3 losses in a row.....Woohoo!" another wrote.

"Yeah we are getting swept," a fan predicted. "This team sucks every May."

"Good thing you let us know now we shouldn’t watch lol pathetic manager and organization," said another.

"Just let your top prospect pitch man," one implored. "Making it unnecessarily weird. Here's the ball, welcome to the MLB, go win us a baseball game."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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