Cubs Manager Expresses Frustration Over Stolen Base Review

Craig Counsell didn’t hold back his frustration regarding Major League Baseball’s decision not to review the incident involving Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson, who seemingly blocked Cubs infielder Nico Horner at second base during a key moment in their 3-2 loss on Thursday in Baltimore.

During the 9th inning, with the Cubs trailing by one run and looking to tie, Horner attempted to steal second. However, it looked like Henderson’s foot was right in Horner’s path, forcing him to adjust his slide.

After the call was made, the umpires concentrated on whether Horner was tagged as he left the bag, rather than addressing the potential obstruction by Henderson. “There’s clearly something blocking the bag,” Counsell stated to the media. He pointed out that Horner’s adjustment was necessary because he had to navigate around Henderson’s foot.

He went on to explain, “They go to review, but they don’t even consider the bag block, which seems to be the main reason Horner came off the bag. It just doesn’t add up.” Counsell emphasized that while Horner did come off the bag and was tagged, it was due to Henderson’s foot being in the way, something he deemed illegal.

“It’s puzzling, really. New York is aware of this issue, yet the umpire didn’t call it on the field, and neither did they upon review,” he said, shaking his head in disbelief.

Ultimately, the Cubs were unable to recover from this loss, marking their third consecutive defeat against the Orioles, who denied them a chance to achieve a sweep. Dansby Swanson and Michael Conforto were the last two outs for Chicago, sealing Baltimore’s victory.