Fergie Jenkins’ take on Miguel Montero finger-pointing: ‘Uncalled for’

Count Cubs Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins among those who didn’t like Miguel Montero’s recent decision to air his grievances in public.

“A lot of times you discuss that in the dugout or on the bench when the game is over — but not to put it in the press,” Jenkins said Thursday, a day after Montero was designated for assignment for criticizing teammate Jake Arrieta’s performance after the Cubs allowed seven stolen bases Tuesday night. “It’s really uncalled for. It’s too bad it came out. Guys get angry from time to time. Maybe Montero thought he was embarrassed by not being able to throw people out.”

Jenkins, 74, who’s in town to promote memorabilia and autograph signings, said he felt bad for Montero, adding, “He apologized, but it’s too late.”

Jenkins emphasized the importance of having a tight clubhouse.

“If you’re going to be consistent, you’ve got to be consistent in the locker room and then transfer it to the field,” he said. “If you don’t do that, [then you have] problems.”

Clubhouse drama aside, Jenkins said he knows why the Cubs have been inconsistent: pitching. He knows a thing or two about that — he won 284 games in 19 seasons with a 3.34 ERA and 3,192 strikeouts.

Cubs starters have a 4.52 ERA this season, 15th in the majors. Their 2.96 ERA last year ranked first.

Jenkins, who pitched 267 complete games, said pitchers today don’t throw enough.

“The pitch count — I never had,” he said. “It’s just something maybe to protect these young pitchers and their arms, but I never had a sore arm in 21 seasons.”

Follow me on Twitter @elankane15.

Email: ekane@suntimes.com

RELATED STORIES

Trade bores: Can Cubs make big second-half push without outside help?

Ankle sprain could keep Cubs’ Kris Bryant out until at least next week