Former Cardinals star Jim Edmonds has taken aim at Cubs outfielder Christopher Morel for his over-the-top home run celebrations, calling his behavior "a joke."
Former St. Louis Cardinals star Jim Edmonds has chastised Chicago Cubs designated hitter Christopher Morel for his excessive home run showboating, labeling his behavior as "a joke."
Morel, who has emerged as a breakout star for the Cubs this season, hit two home runs against the Cardinals on Sunday, including an eighth-inning blast that seemed to particularly irk Edmonds.
Jim Edmonds Blasts Cubs' Morel for Excessive Home Run Showboating
"His celebration is a joke, I don’t mind saying it at all. I’ve never seen anything like it," Edmonds said on the Bally Sports broadcast. "I just don’t get it. You’re a .229 hitter in the big leagues, and you're running around like you're Barry Bonds."
Edmonds, who was a four-time Gold Glove winner and two-time Silver Slugger during his playing days, went on to criticize the fan who caught Morel's home run ball, accusing him of taking up too much space.
Jim Edmonds Blasts Cubs' Morel for Excessive Home Run Showboating
"He's also taking up plenty of room out there. …" Edmonds added.
Morel's home runs helped the Cubs snap a three-game losing streak and improve their record to 47-51, while the Cardinals dropped to 50-46. The Cubs head into the All-Star break 8.5 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central Division race, while the Cardinals are 4.5 games behind.
Jim Edmonds Blasts Cubs' Morel for Excessive Home Run Showboating
Despite Morel's heroics, Edmonds' comments have sparked a debate about the appropriate level of celebration after a home run. Some argue that Morel's actions were disrespectful and showed a lack of humility, while others believe that he was merely expressing his joy and excitement.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell defended Morel's behavior, saying, "We did a really nice job. We got down early, but swung the bats really well. A lot of just good swings, drove the ball really well. Pete had his best day in the big leagues and that was fun to watch."
Whether or not Morel's home run celebrations are deemed appropriate, there is no doubt that he has become a fan favorite in Chicago. His energetic and enthusiastic style of play has helped the Cubs stay competitive in a tough division.
Morel's breakout season has also earned him recognition from around the league, as he was recently named to the National League All-Star team for the first time in his career. He will represent the Cubs in the Midsummer Classic alongside teammate Patrick Wisdom.
As the Cubs enter the second half of the season, Morel will look to continue his impressive production and help lead his team to a playoff berth. And while his home run celebrations may continue to draw criticism from some, they are unlikely to deter him from expressing himself on the field.
