Garth Brooks, the renowned country singer, once had an impact on an MLB hitter's batting stance. Craig Counsell, who is now the manager of the Chicago Cubs, had a successful career as a professional baseball player for over a decade, starting from 1995 until 2007.
Counsell was famous for his unique and non-traditional way of holding the bat while batting. He would raise it high up in the air, and the reason behind this technique remained a mystery to everyone. Interestingly, Counsell never provided an explanation for his unconventional stance
Upon being appointed as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, Counsell participated in the 2024 Cubs Convention. During the event, an individual finally inquired about the reason behind his previous habit of holding the bat at a high position in the air.
He attributes it to Garth Brooks.
Counsell clarifies that during his time at spring training with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he struggled as a hitter and struggled to make any successful hits.
During spring training, I hit a powerful hit towards the left field. Excitedly thinking it would be my first base hit, I lowered my head and swiftly ran towards first base. The crowd erupted in excitement. However, when I glanced up, I was taken aback to see Garth Brooks unexpectedly diving to catch the ball in left field, thus prolonging my unsuccessful streak of not getting any hits in four attempts.
The attendees at the media briefing found this narrative incredibly amusing.
The following day, I was set free. I had a conversation with myself, questioning why I couldn't achieve any successful attempts. This self-reflection prompted me to raise my hands up high, and surprisingly, it made a significant difference in my performance.
I hold Garth Brooks responsible for a terrible batting stance.
Brooks, who is widely recognized as one of the most prominent figures in the music industry, had a passion for sports during his younger days. He was involved in baseball and track and field as an athlete. Despite having three opportunities to join the New York Mets, he unfortunately did not succeed in being selected for the team.
Evan Paul is the person in charge of hosting Taste of Country Nights, a radio show that is broadcasted on over 120 country radio stations across the country. This show airs every evening from 7PM to midnight and features the latest and greatest country music. In addition to playing music, Evan also conducts interviews with popular country artists such as Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lady A, Morgan Wallen, and many more.
Take a look inside the Malibu beach house owned by country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. The photo gallery is credited to Sterling Whitaker.
Images: Take a look at the interior of Sean Hannity's impressive townhouse in Palm Beach.
Credit for the gallery: Sterling Whitaker
The list of the most melancholic country songs ever, ranked in order of their sadness level. The credit for the accompanying gallery goes to Care
Additional content from Taste of Country
Details
Stay connected with us