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How Garth Brooks Influenced Craig Counsell’s Unconventional Batting Stance

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Garth Brooks once had an impact on an MLB hitter's batting stance. Craig Counsell, now the manager of the Chicago Cubs, had a successful career as a professional baseball player from 1995 to 2007.

Counsell was famous for his unique and unconventional way of holding his bat while batting. He would raise it high up in the air, but the reason behind this unusual stance remained a mystery. Counsell never provided any explanation for his choice either.

After Counsell was appointed as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, he participated in the 2024 Cubs Convention, during which a curious individual finally inquired about the reason behind his habit of holding the bat at a high position in the air.

He attributes the responsibility to Garth Brooks.

Counsell clarifies that during his time at spring training with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he struggled as a hitter and couldn't manage to make any successful hits.

During spring training, I managed to hit a powerful hit towards the left field. Excitedly, I thought to myself, "Finally! My first successful hit!" With determination, I quickly began sprinting towards first base. The crowd erupted into wild cheers, their excitement filling the air. However, as I glanced up, I was taken aback to see that Garth Brooks, unexpectedly, had made an incredible diving catch in left field, preventing me from breaking my 0-4 streak.

The individuals attending the press conference were greatly amused by this story.

The following day, I was set free. I engaged in a personal conversation, questioning myself, "Why am I unable to achieve any successful hits?" This inquiry prompted me to raise my hands up high in the air. Surprisingly, this action proved to be beneficial.

I attribute my terrible batting stance to Garth Brooks.

Brooks, who is widely recognized as one of the most prominent figures in the music industry, had a passion for sports during his childhood. He actively participated in baseball and track and field events. Despite having three opportunities to join the New York Mets, he unfortunately did not secure a spot on the team.

Evan Paul is the person in charge of hosting Taste of Country Nights, a radio program that is broadcasted on over 120 country radio stations across the country. The show airs every evening from 7PM to midnight. During the show, Evan plays the latest and greatest country music hits and conducts interviews with some of the biggest stars in the industry. These include popular artists such as Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lady A, Morgan Wallen, and many others.

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