Chicago Cubs fire team psychologist for odd behavior

I guess when your team’s nickname is the ‘Loveable Losers’ you don’t have much in the way of hiding your warts. So with a new manager and some new players in tow, the Chicago Cubs have made one other organizational change – their team psychologist.

Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune reported that the Cubs are dumping current head-shrink Marc Strickland, and will begin the search for a new mental MD.

According to Sullivan, previous Cubs GM Jim Hendry wanted to get rid of Strickland, but ownership blocked the pink slip. Current president Theo Epstein has cut the ties to Strickland.

The reason why both Hendry and Epstein wanted Strickland to clean our his locker? Well, for one thing, the he actually did have his own locker in the clubhouse, both on the road and at home.

In fact, Strickland apparently made himself right at home as a member of the team, even though he was simply one of the contracted employees. Reports are that Strickland dressed in team workout gear and warmed-up with players prior to games, and had other odd behavior that wasn’t consistent with someone who was only supposed to be available for consultations between games.

Sullivan asked Cubs outfielder Nate Schierholz what Strickland’s purpose was with the team. His reply?, “I’m not really sure.”

Guess that pretty much seals it right there.