Chicago Cubs probable pitchers & starting lineup vs. Atlanta Braves, May 22

The importance of Craig Counsell being in the Chicago Cubs' clubhouse was none more evident than what occurred prior to Tuesday's 4-3 victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Prior to the game, Counsell met with reporters to announce that veteran Kyle Hendricks had been removed from the starting rotation. For anyone who looked at Hendricks this season and saw a 34-year-old right-handed starting pitcher with an ERA of 10.57 and a fastball that struggles to reach 90 mph on a good day, the decision was as clear as day.

The issue for any non-Counsell member of the Cubs' front office is that when they look at Hendricks, they see the starting pitcher who was on the mound to start the team's Game 7 victory over the Cleveland Guardians during the 2016 World Series. Hendricks is the last player remaining on the Cubs' roster from 2016 and that is why Jed Hoyer speaks from a place of admiration and love whenever talking about the veteran starting pitcher.

Part of being paid as the best manager in baseball is that Counsell needs to take the emotion out of the decisions that are made on the field. That is why his value to the Cubs goes far beyond Hoyer's reach as President of Baseball Operations.

Probable starting pitchers

• Justin Steele is on the mound for the Cubs on Wednesday night against the Braves. After struggling in two consecutive outings against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cubs need Steele to return to form against one of the best lineups in the National League.

• Max Fried will get the nod for the Braves as he sports a 3.81 ERA through 9 starts this season.

Chicago Cubs starting lineup, May 22

Atlanta Braves starting lineup, May 22

What channel is the Chicago Cubs game on today?

• Game Time: 6:40 PM CST
• Marquee Sports Network and the Marquee Sports Network app will have the Cubs broadcast tonight.
• Braves fans can catch the game on Bally Sports South

How do I stream the Chicago Cubs game today?

• Marquee Sports Network
• MLB.tv
• fuboTV

How can I listen to the Chicago Cubs game today?

• The Cubs broadcast will be on WSCR 670 The Score
• Braves fans can tune in on 680 The Fan