CHICAGO -- Two seasons into Craig Counsell’s time in the managerial seat on the North Side, Cubs fans have undoubtedly grown accustomed to how he avoids labels with the team’s pitchers. Whether in the rotation or bullpen, Counsell leans on the phrase “out-getters” to sidestep traditional job titles.

“You know Counsell likes to be flexible and versatile with how he uses guys,” Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy said in a recent phone conversation.

Fair enough, but there is still a desire to figure out how certain arms fit within the larger innings puzzle that each season presents. As things stand, the Cubs still have a need for adding multiple out-getters for the entire staff. That will be a focus in the upcoming Winter Meetings, where Chicago’s search for additional rotation and bullpen h

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