Cubs Manager Reflects on Work-Life Balance Amid Family Events

PITTSBURGH — Cubs manager Craig Counsell spoke candidly about the challenges of balancing his professional responsibilities with family commitments. He addressed the topic just as Pirates manager Derek Shelton missed a game to attend his son Jackson‘s graduation at Florida Atlantic University on Thursday.

“Yeah, I’m actually happy Derek Shelton’s missing the game today,” Counsell said before facing the Cubs. The former Brewers manager emphasized the importance of prioritizing family, especially during significant milestones like graduations and games.

Counsell knows about the struggle firsthand; he has two sons who play college baseball and has frequently missed their games. He reflected on skipping two games with the Brewers to attend his sons’ high school graduations in 2021 and 2023.

“We all think about the work-life balance, you know?” Counsell remarked. “So it’s no different than anybody else’s job, really.” He noted how difficult it can be to take personal days in a profession filled with high demands.

Despite the challenges, Counsell finds solace in returning home to suburban Milwaukee, especially during moments like these. “I’m going home and getting some work-life balance,” he stated.

His younger son, Jack, transferred to Northwestern University and is seeing significant playing time this season, while his older son Brady plays for the University of Kansas and is making a name for himself with impressive stats.

Counsell mentioned he recently watched Brady hit a home run during a series at Arizona State. However, he joked about not receiving any acknowledgment from his son during the moment.

As Counsell balances his demanding role in Major League Baseball with family life, he recognizes the sacrifices that come with the position. Yet, he views this lifestyle as normal for him and his family. “It’s the life you know, it’s the life my family knows,” he said. “So it’s actually very normalized. It’s like, ‘Why are you home?’”