Since Craig Counsell has taken over as manager of the Chicago Cubs, several of his former players have reunited with him in the Windy City. The list includes, but is not limited to, pitchers such as Colin Rea, Drew Pomeranz, and most recently Hoby Milner. It also includes current coach Quintin Berry.
According to multiple reports, that list of connections is now growing by one more as 34 year old first baseman/outfielder Tyler Austin has signed a one year, Major League deal with the Cubs. Austin was a former top prospect with the New York Yankees who made his big league debut with them in 2016, but last appeared in a Major League game in 2019 as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers.
Tyler Austin, connected to Craig Counsell from his time with the Milwaukee Brewers, has signed a Major League deal with the Chicago Cubs
Sep 8, 2019; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Tyler Austin (29) rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
Back in 2019, the Brewers went on a magical “Criaigtember” run over the final month and made the playoffs as a wild card team. Austin was a part of that Milwaukee team, appearing in 17 games that month. Notably his biggest impact came during a game against the Cubs, hitting a pinch hit three run home run off Jon Lester.
Once that season ended, Austin spent the next six seasons playing in Japan, in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. He played in 403 games for the Yokohama Bay Stars and slashed .293/.377/.568. This includes hitting 20 home runs in 2020, 28 in 2021, and 26 in 2024. Defensively, he plays first base as well as the corner outfield spots.
The Cubs are clearly hoping he can thrive once again under Counsell’s watch. After six productive seasons refining his game in Japan, Chicago is betting that Austin’s power, experience, and improved approach can translate back to the States, this time at Wrigley Field.
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