Career Timeline of Craig Counsell: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Craig Counsell, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Craig Counsell is a former MLB infielder and the current manager of the Chicago Cubs. Prior to joining the Cubs, he managed the Milwaukee Brewers, where he holds the franchise record for managerial wins. During his tenure with the Brewers, he guided the team to five postseason appearances and secured one playoff series victory. Counsell's career reflects significant contributions as both a player and a manager in Major League Baseball.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1992: Drafted by Colorado Rockies

In 1992, Craig Counsell was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 11th round of the MLB Draft.

September 17, 1995: MLB Debut with the Rockies

On September 17, 1995, Craig Counsell made his MLB debut with the Colorado Rockies.

July 1997: Traded to the Florida Marlins

In July 1997, Craig Counsell was traded by the Colorado Rockies to the Florida Marlins.

1997: Won World Series with Florida Marlins

In 1997, Craig Counsell won the World Series with the Florida Marlins, batting in the tying run and scoring the winning run.

June 1999: Traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers

In June 1999, Craig Counsell was traded by the Marlins to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

2000: Signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks

During 2000 spring training, Craig Counsell was released by the Dodgers and signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

2001: Won NLCS MVP with Diamondbacks

In 2001, Craig Counsell batted 8-for-21 (.381) with 4 runs batted in (RBIs) and 5 runs in the National League Championship Series (NLCS), and won the NLCS Most Valuable Player Award.

2001: Played First Base for Diamondbacks

In 2001, Craig Counsell played two games at first base for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

2001: Named NLCS Most Valuable Player

In 2001, Craig Counsell was named the NLCS Most Valuable Player, and was on-base for the Arizona Diamondbacks when they subsequently won the World Series.

2003: Traded to the Milwaukee Brewers

After the 2003 season, Craig Counsell was traded by the Diamondbacks to the Milwaukee Brewers.

2003: Played First Base for Diamondbacks

In 2003, Craig Counsell played two games at first base for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

2004: Started at Shortstop for the Brewers

In 2004, Craig Counsell started at shortstop for the Milwaukee Brewers.

2007: Returned to the Brewers as a Free Agent

In 2007, Craig Counsell returned to the Milwaukee Brewers as a free agent, taking on the role of utility infielder.

August 16, 2008: Recorded 1,000th Career Hit

On August 16, 2008, Craig Counsell recorded his 1,000th career hit against Derek Lowe of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

2009: Gained Regular Playing Time with the Brewers

In 2009, Craig Counsell gained more regular playing time due to injuries and inconsistent play from other Brewers players.

2011: Played Left Field for Brewers

In 2011, Craig Counsell spent part of a game in left field for the Brewers.

2011: Fourth-Oldest Player in the National League

In 2011, Craig Counsell was the fourth-oldest player in the National League, with a high fielding percentage.

2012: Retired and Took Front Office Position

In early 2012, Craig Counsell retired as a professional baseball player and took a front office position with the Brewers.

2014: Named Part-Time Color Analyst

In 2014, Craig Counsell was named a part-time color analyst for Brewers radio broadcasts.

May 4, 2015: Hired as Manager of the Brewers

On May 4, 2015, Craig Counsell was hired by the Milwaukee Brewers to become their manager.

2017: Led Team to Surprising Run

In 2017, Craig Counsell led the Brewers to a surprising run, finishing 2nd in the NL Central.

2018: Won NL Central

In 2018, Craig Counsell led the Brewers to win the NL Central.

September 18, 2021: Won 500th Game as a Manager

On September 18, 2021, Craig Counsell won his 500th game as a manager.

June 15, 2022: Passed Phil Garner for Most Wins as Brewers Manager

On June 15, 2022, Craig Counsell passed Phil Garner for most wins as a Brewers manager.

September 19, 2023: Won 700th Game as a Manager

On September 19, 2023, Craig Counsell won his 700th game as a manager.

November 1, 2023: Contract with Brewers Expired

On November 1, 2023, Craig Counsell's contract with the Milwaukee Brewers expired.

November 6, 2023: Hired as Manager of the Chicago Cubs

On November 6, 2023, Craig Counsell was hired as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, becoming the highest-paid manager in MLB history.

2024: Cubs Missed Playoffs

In 2024, the Cubs finished the season with an 83–79 record and ultimately missed the playoffs.

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