When the Chicago Cubs handed Craig Counsell a five-year, $40 million contract last winter, they were betting on one of the sharpest minds in baseball to lead them back to October. Now, a few months into the season, it's time to take a pulse check: How is the new skipper really doing?

Let's start with the vibes at Wrigley Field. The Cubs just pulled off a thriller, beating the Reds 5-4 in walk-off fashion. Down 4-3 in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Crow-Armstrong sparked the rally with a triple. After Dansby Swanson struck out, Nico Hoerner tied the game with a sacrifice fly. Then, pinch-hitter Michael Conforto stepped up and launched his first career walk-off home run into the left-center field stands. The dugout erupted, and the crowd went wild. It was the kind of win that builds belief—and it's happening more and more under Counsell's watch.

Last week, we asked you to grade the Cubs' first month. The results were solid: 62 percent gave the team a "B," and 34 percent handed out an "A." Some of you wanted a "B+" option—fair point—since the Cubs were sitting in second place at the time. But here's the thing: they haven't lost since. Now, they're in first place, and it's safe to say those grades would be even higher if we asked again today.

Counsell's fingerprints are all over this turnaround. Known for his meticulous preparation and calm demeanor, he's bringing a steady hand to a young, talented roster. The bullpen usage has been sharper, the lineup adjustments feel more intentional, and the team's ability to win close games—like this one—suggests a new level of resilience. For a Cubs fan base that's been hungry for consistent winning, that's a welcome change.

Of course, it's still early. The season is a marathon, and Counsell will face tougher tests ahead. But for now, the early returns are promising. The manager is settling in, the players are buying in, and the North Side is starting to buzz again. Whether you're a night owl catching the late highlights or an early riser checking the morning recap, one thing is clear: Craig Counsell is making his mark in Chicago.