Craig Counsell's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. Born on August 21, 1970, in South Bend, Indiana, Counsell grew up with baseball in his blood. His father worked for the Milwaukee Brewers, which gave young Craig early exposure to the sport. He attended the University of Notre Dame, where he played college baseball for the Fighting Irish, honing his skills as an infielder.
Counsell's professional career began when he was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 11th round of the 1992 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Rockies in 1995, but it was with the Florida Marlins that he first gained widespread attention. In 1997, Counsell played a crucial role in the Marlins' World Series victory. His game-winning run in the 11th inning of Game 7 against the Cleveland Indians etched his name in the annals of baseball history.
After his stint with the Marlins, Counsell was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1999, though his time there was brief. He soon found himself with the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he would again shine on the World Series stage. In 2001, Counsell was named the National League Championship Series MVP, helping the Diamondbacks secure their first World Series title by defeating the New York Yankees. His performance in the postseason, particularly his ability to get on base and his defensive prowess, was instrumental in the Diamondbacks' success.
Counsell's career continued with various teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, where he became a fan favorite. Known for his unique batting stance and gritty style of play, he was a reliable infielder, often playing second base, shortstop, and third base. His leadership qualities were evident both on and off the field, earning him respect from teammates and coaches alike.
In 2004, Counsell returned to the Brewers, the team he had grown up watching. He played with them until 2011, except for a brief return to the Diamondbacks in 2005 and 2006. During his time with the Brewers, Counsell was known for his clutch hitting and steady defense. He played a vital role in the Brewers' 2008 playoff run, their first postseason appearance in 26 years.
After retiring as a player in 2011, Counsell transitioned into a front-office role with the Brewers, serving as a special assistant to the general manager. His deep understanding of the game and analytical approach made him a valuable asset to the organization. In 2015, he was named the manager of the Milwaukee Brewers, a position he held for several years. Under his leadership, the Brewers reached the playoffs multiple times, including a memorable run to the National League Championship Series in 2018.
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