Cubs and Diamondbacks Resolve Tension Over Pitch Tipping

PHOENIX — Tensions between the Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks regarding pitch tipping reached a peak during Monday’s game but were resolved by Tuesday night. The issue arose in the fifth inning of the Cubs’ 7-0 victory, with Diamondbacks angry over Cubs third base coach Quintin Berry relaying pitch information. Berry gathered insights from observing right-hander Merrill Kelly. Prior to the game, the Cubs had conducted video analysis, which Berry utilized from the third-base coach’s box.

The tension escalated to yelling, finger-pointing, and heated words between coaches during the top of the fifth inning. Berry, positioned directly in front of the Diamondbacks’ dugout, encountered significant backlash. Key figures in the confrontation included Diamondbacks bench coach Jeff Bannister and Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty. Kelly expressed displeasure with Berry’s actions after being pulled from the mound, labeling it as “bush league,” while manager Craig Counsell described such actions as common gamesmanship.

Before Tuesday’s game, emotions had cooled. Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo called Counsell to apologize, acknowledging the league deemed Berry’s pitch relaying legal from his position. Counsell appreciated Lovullo’s gesture. Bannister and Berry met during Diamondbacks batting practice, concluding their discussion with a handshake and hug. Berry intends to continue aiding his hitters, saying it’s part of competitive sports.

Berry emphasized the effort required to gain an edge, referencing the neutralizing effect of PitchCom technology on strategic opportunities. He stressed the importance of constant preparations and adjustments to prevent others from exploiting pitching cues, especially close to playoffs.

“It requires a lot of studying, no doubt,” Berry noted, highlighting the necessity of teams to clean their tactics to avoid late-season disadvantages.

From the Cubs’ standpoint, pitch tipping is seen as part of the game. The Cubs have experienced similar situations, notably during Shota Imanaga’s starts. The Cubs expect every team to protect their pitching strategies proactively, understanding potential exploits in glove or catcher setups.

Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy remarked that resolving pitch tipping issues is a priority. He views it as a coach’s duty rather than blaming opposing teams for exploiting such cues. He highlighted preparations made throughout the season and spring training to control the running game and avoid predictable plays.

Monday’s events stressed the thin margins teams pursue for advantages. Hottovy emphasized maintaining a flexible approach, asserting that staying on top of potential pitch tipping is critical for competitive play.