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The Influence of Garth Brooks: How a Diving Catch Led to Craig Counsell’s Unconventional Batting Stance

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Garth Brooks, the renowned country singer, once had a significant impact on the batting stance of an MLB player. Craig Counsell, who is now the manager of the Chicago Cubs, had an impressive career as a professional baseball player from 1995 to 2007.

Counsell was famous for his unique and unorthodox way of holding the bat while batting. He raised it high up in the air, and the reason behind this peculiar stance remained a mystery to everyone. Surprisingly, Counsell never offered any explanation for his unconventional batting

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

He attributes the responsibility to Garth Brooks.

Counsell describes his lack of proficiency in batting during his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers during spring training. He expresses his inability to achieve any successful hits.

During a spring training game, I smacked a powerful hit towards the left field. Instantly, I felt a surge of excitement as I thought, "Finally, my first base hit!" Determined, I focused on running to first base, not paying much attention to the roaring crowd. However, when I glanced up, I was astonished to see Garth Brooks, the famous singer, making an incredible diving catch in left field. Unfortunately, this outstanding play resulted in me maintaining my streak of not getting a hit, as I remained 0

The people attending the press conference found this story incredibly funny.

The day after, I was set free. I had a conversation with myself, pondering why I couldn't achieve any successful hits. This reflection prompted me to raise my hands up high in the air. Surprisingly, it made a positive difference!

Garth Brooks is responsible for my terrible batting stance.

Brooks, who is recognized as one of the most prominent figures in the music industry, also had a passion for sports during his youth. He actively participated in baseball and track and field events. Although he made attempts to join the New York Mets on three separate occasions, he unfortunately didn't succeed in securing a spot on the team.

Evan Paul is the presenter of 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 and features the latest and greatest country music, as well as exclusive interviews with 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.

Take a glimpse inside the beautiful Malibu beach house owned by country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. The gallery credit goes to Sterling Whitaker.

Images: Take a look inside the impressive Palm Beach townhouse owned by Sean Hannity. Photo credits go to Sterling Whitaker.

The ranking of the 30 most sorrowful country songs ever, curated by Carena Liptak.

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