Latest rumors could spell an end to this division rival's dominance over the Reds

Fans of the Cincinnati Reds know all too well that Milwaukee Brewers' manager Craig Counsell is one of the best in the game of baseball. However, It sounds as if Counsell's time as the manager of the Brew Crew may be nearing its end.

Counsell is in the final year of his contract with the Brewers, and for all intents and purposes, will be a free agent this offseason. It's unsurprising that Counsell may be one of the hottest managerial candidates available.

It's well known that the New York Mets have their eye on Counsell, especially after his former boss, David Stearns, was named the top executive in Queens. But another team has joined the running as well.

Latest rumors could spell an end to this division rival's dominance over the Reds

According to Will Sammon of The Athletic (subscription required), Craig Counsell is slated to interview, not only with the New York Mets (originally reported by Andy Martino of SNY), but sources are suggesting that he could have a meeting with the Cleveland Guardians as well.

The Mets, as most know, have unlimited resources thanks to owner Steve Cohen, and could back the Brinks' truck up to Counsell's front door. However, don't sleep on the Guardians, who operate a small market franchise, similar to the one he's managed for the past nine years.

Craig Counsell grew up in the Milwaukee area, so don't dismiss the idea that he could return to the Brewers on a lucrative contract extension.

According to Sammon, the Brewers' skipper has the opportunity to set the bar for managerial salaries, something that those close to Counsell say matters greatly to him.

Counsell has led the Milwaukee Brewers to three NL Central Championships during his tenure in the Cream City, and the Crew absolutely owned the Cincinnati Reds in 2023 with a record of 10-3.

During his entire time leading the Brewers, Craig Counsell is 91-67 (.575) against the Reds. Only twice during his nine-year career as the Brewers' skipper has Counsell had a losing record against the Reds. I don't think Reds Country would shed a tear if Counsell left the NL Central Division.