The Chicago Cubs have built one of the best records in baseball on more than just timely hitting, and according to Nico Hoerner, that identity started forming the moment Craig Counsell arrived. Everyone knows that defense wins ball games, but for a team managed by Counsell, the philosophy behind the defense becomes one of the foundational pillars that support the team.
Hoerner's comments sheds light onto the inner workings of the clubhouse and the approach Counsell takes to the players. This mentality is something Counsell has brought to the table since he arrived, and Hoerner's thoughts on the matter shows just how large of an impact that can have on an organization.
Craig Counsell established the defensive standard immediately
Relentless defense is the Cubs' secret weapon 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/F0Uvoxl0h3
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) May 15, 2026
"“From Couns’ first day with the Cubs, it was kind of emphasizing the identity of the group. We talked about suffocating other teams with defense and just, you know, offense comes and goes, and there’s going to be stretches you don’t feel good, but if you can be relentless with taking hits and runs away, you’re going to be in a lot of games and win a lot of games.”"Nico Hoerner
Hoerner's words aren't simply praising the fact that the Cubs can play defense. The philosophy of a manager must come top down, and it should be embodied at all ends of the organization. A team in unison with one goal in mind is a dangerous team indeed.
Counsell has a long history of carrying that culture with him in any clubhouse he's managed. To them, the defense is not secondary, but rather it's the anchor holding a successful season in place. The baseball season is a long one at 162 games. The offense is going to naturally fluctuate through that, as hot and cold streaks come and go. But the defense must remain intact at all times. If it doesn't, offensive slips like strikeouts and leaving runners on base becomes secondary.
Through the first quarter of the season, the Cubs have been wearing their identity for all to see. Hoerner himself does a fantastic job of embodying the defensive spirit, and he showed it on Friday night by laying out to execute a fantastic play.
The Cubs are building their success around a brand of baseball that does not disappear when the bats cool off. If Counsell's philosophy continues translating to the field the way Hoerner described it, Chicago's defense may remain one of the club's brightest spots all season long.
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