Tensions Cool Between Cubs and Diamondbacks Over Pitch Tipping

The Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks resolved tensions over pitch tipping by Tuesday. This issue came to a head during the fifth inning of the Cubs’ 7-0 win on Monday. The Diamondbacks were upset with Cubs’ third base coach Quintin Berry, who was relaying pitch information to hitters based on cues from Diamondbacks’ pitcher Merrill Kelly. Berry utilized video analysis before the series to pick up these cues during the game from his vantage point.

The dispute escalated into a confrontation between coaches, with finger-pointing, yelling, and strong language exchanged. Berry faced criticism from Arizona’s dugout but remained at his position on the third-base side. Bench coaches Jeff Bannister of the Diamondbacks and Ryan Flaherty of the Cubs were central to the dispute, and Kelly was visibly frustrated with Berry after being replaced in the sixth inning. Kelly described Berry’s actions as “bush league,” while Cubs manager Craig Counsell called it “gamesmanship.”

By Tuesday, emotions had settled. Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo called Counsell to apologize for the incident, acknowledging that Berry’s actions were within the rules. Lovullo expressed respect for Counsell, who appreciated the gesture. Bannister and Berry discussed the matter during the Diamondbacks’ batting practice, ending with a handshake. Berry remains committed to supporting his team’s hitters.

“They’re obviously playing for something, we’re playing for something,” Berry told the Tribune, “It’s pure emotional competition.”

Berry values this aspect of the game, having enjoyed creating on-field chaos since his playing days. Advances like PitchCom have reduced traditional strategic impacts, but Berry focuses on studying to leverage any advantages.

The controversy over pitch tipping is familiar to the Cubs, who have faced similar challenges during other games. Notably, during a recent game against the Seattle Mariners, pitcher Shota Imanaga struggled, possibly due to pitch tipping. Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner explained that on-field activities are generally accepted as part of the game, but clarified league rules against coaches being out of position.

The Cubs understand the responsibility of preventing other teams from exploiting their cues. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy emphasized the importance of preemptively addressing pitch tipping. He views this as a personal mission to help maintain a competitive edge.

The team prepares diligently, working on strategies to avoid predictability in their gameplay. Hottovy discussed plans to address any signs of tipping with his pitchers, highlighting the role of coaching in these efforts. The Monday incident reinforced the need for vigilance in securing every potential advantage.

Hottovy stated, “It’s the norm now, so having a Plan B or a different setup to combat these situations is key. Our job as coaches is to stay vigilant, keep track of our pitchers’ actions, and adapt when necessary.”