Cubs GM Issues Three-Word Warning as Pressure Mounts on Manager Counsell
CHICAGO — Tension is mounting in the Windy City as the Chicago Cubs prepare for their crucial upcoming series against the New York Mets, with General Manager Carter Hawkins reportedly issuing a terse three-word warning that has sparked speculation about manager Craig Counsell’s job security.
Multiple sources close to the organization have confirmed that during a closed-door meeting following the Cubs’ recent disappointing homestand, Hawkins told team executives: “Results must improve.” This direct message has been interpreted by insiders as a clear indication that patience is wearing thin with the team’s inconsistent performance under Counsell’s leadership.
The Cubs, who entered the season with heightened expectations after significant offseason investments, currently sit below .500 and have struggled to find consistency, particularly against division rivals and potential playoff contenders like the Mets.
“When you’re not meeting expectations at this level, these kinds of conversations happen,” said former Cubs pitcher and current analyst Carlos Zambrano. “The three-word warning from Hawkins sends a clear message that the front office believes the talent is there, but the results aren’t measuring up.”
Counsell, who joined the Cubs prior to the 2024 season after a successful tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers, is widely respected throughout baseball for his tactical acumen and player management. However, the pressure to translate his approach into consistent wins for the historically expectant Cubs fanbase has intensified as the team approaches the quarter mark of the 2025 season.
Team captain Dansby Swanson addressed the situation in a pre-game press conference yesterday: “At the end of the day, we’re the ones on the field. Coach Counsell prepares us thoroughly for every game, but we need to execute better. The responsibility falls on us as players to turn this around.”
Hawkins, who has maintained a reputation for measured decision-making since taking over as GM, declined to directly comment on Counsell’s job status when approached by reporters before yesterday’s game. However, he did acknowledge that “everyone in the organization is being evaluated constantly” and that “we built this team to compete now.”
The upcoming four-game series against the Mets, beginning tomorrow at Wrigley Field, now carries additional significance beyond the standings. Baseball insiders suggest that a poor showing, particularly if it involves fundamental mistakes or apparent tactical missteps, could prompt the front office to consider more dramatic changes.
Cubs owner Tom Ricketts has historically given his baseball operations team significant latitude to make personnel decisions, but sources indicate he has been increasingly present at team facilities in recent weeks—often a sign of growing concern from ownership.
“The Cubs aren’t an organization that makes rash decisions,” noted ESPN baseball analyst Jesse Rogers. “But the three-word warning from Hawkins puts everyone on notice that the status quo isn’t acceptable. This Mets series could be a turning point one way or another.”
Counsell himself maintained his characteristic calm demeanor when addressing the media today: “My focus is entirely on preparing this team to win tomorrow’s game. That’s the job, and that’s where my energy goes. Everything else is just noise.”
As the Cubs take the field tomorrow, all eyes will be on both the scoreboard and the dugout, where the pressure to perform has never been more palpable for both the players and their increasingly scrutinized manager.
