Cubs' Counsell hears loud boos in return to Milwaukee

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell was booed heavily in his first game back at American Family Field on Monday after leaving the Milwaukee Brewers in the offseason to join their NL Central rivals.

"The fans are here to enjoy the day, enjoy a baseball game. They get to do what they want. Hopefully, they had a good time." Counsell said postgame after the Brewers beat the Cubs 5-1 to begin a four-game series, according to Jesse Rogers of ESPN.

Counsell signed a five-year contract worth more than $40 million with the Cubs following a nine-year run with the Brewers, which included three division titles and five playoff appearances.

"Look, cheer, boo, whatever, man," Counsell told the media before the contest, according to Steve Megargee of The Associated Press. "Just have a good time at the game. That's what fans get to do. Just have a good time. It's Memorial Day. You don't have to work today. Let's all have a good time."

Pat Murphy replaced Counsell as Milwaukee's skipper. The Brewers opened up a 4.5-game lead over the Cubs with the victory. Chicago has now lost five straight games.