The Milwaukee Brewers had their former manager Craig Counsell lured away from them as he fell into the hands of their division rival the Chicago Cubs. Chicago is a much bigger market than Milwaukee with more financial flexibility. Craig Counsell signing with the Cubs immediately links one All-Star free agent to the Windy City.

New Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell immediately links free agent Justin Turner to the team due to the Milwaukee Brewers prior interest in him.
The Milwaukee Brewers, Craig Counsell, and Justin Turner have a history together. Even though Justin Turner never signed with the Brew Crew they were strongly interested in him previously and had a competitive multi-year offer on the table a few years ago.
Recently Justin Turner declined his 2024 option with the Boston Red Sox. He is receiving a $6.7 MM buyout and will likely receive a deal this offseason north of $12.00 MM. Given his previous connection with Craig Counsell it is reasonable to consider the fact that maybe the two sides will finally link up, but this time in Chicago.

This off-season the Cubs will be looking to add some impact offensive players. Cody Bellinger and Jeimer Candelario are currently free agents. Jeimer Candelario is who they brought in to play third base at last year’s trade deadline, but adding a veteran like Justin Turner who has a ton of playoff experience could be a smart move.

It will be interesting to see the impact that Craig Counsell signing with the Cubs has on the free agent market. Chicago stealing a well respected manager away from their division rival is a big move and players around the league may react with increased interest in signing with Chicago.
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The Cubs could very well pursue Turner, but to call it a “connection” to Counsell because Milwaukee’s front office tried to sign him is tenuous at best. If he signs it won’t be to follow a manager he never played for.