I am so very happy for the Cubbies. Chicago has a special place in my heart and though I am a Yankees fan through and through, I can't not be happy for the Cubbies.
Congratulations to both Chicago and Cleveland!!! It was one of the more enjoyable World Series in a very long time. Hard fought to the very end.
Congratulations to both Chicago and Cleveland!!! It was one of the more enjoyable World Series in a very long time. Hard fought to the very end.
2
I am a life-long Yankees devotee, although I strayed for a bit while living in LA and being seduced by the one and only Vin Scully, whom we all will miss terribly. To my mind, there was never a better WS than 1996 between the emerging Derek Jeter/Mariano Rivera Yankees with the fabulous assist of closer John Wetteland and the formidable Atlanta team and their now HOF pitching cadre. Every game had us all in absolute stitches until the final out, which often came in extra innings. But this one eclipsed it. Congratulations to the Cubs, to smiling Chief Wahoo, and especially to baseball -- the best athletic game ever devised by mankind!
All's well that ends well... but really, what was Joe Maddon thinking? Kyle Hendricks had thrown just 60 pitches, from all appearances he was in the zone and on a roll; and one after another, Cleveland batters all looked flummoxed and forlorn. Hendricks might even have been able to pitch a complete game the way he was going, for all we know. And then he was unceremoniously yanked. And why... because the cookbook called for it? Surely it wasn't because Hendricks looked as though he needed relief.
Maddon seemed poised to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory when he brought Lester into the game with a runner on base; and then brought a plainly depleted Chapman in for yet another extended outing to close. Both moves were nearly disastrous. All that high drama to win in the 10th was certainly great theatre, but did it need to happen?
If there was method to Maddon's madness, I sure don't know what it was. I'd say Maddon's team bailed him out of what otherwise might have been his own Grady Little moment of infamy.
Maddon seemed poised to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory when he brought Lester into the game with a runner on base; and then brought a plainly depleted Chapman in for yet another extended outing to close. Both moves were nearly disastrous. All that high drama to win in the 10th was certainly great theatre, but did it need to happen?
If there was method to Maddon's madness, I sure don't know what it was. I'd say Maddon's team bailed him out of what otherwise might have been his own Grady Little moment of infamy.
2
Seeing the massive grin on Bryant's face before he even caught the ball was pure joy, he KNEW his toss would clinch the title!
1
I'm happy for the fans of the Chicago Cubs. Now, can the NFL team I root for (in disgust most years) can finally get to, much less win a Super Bowl??
My team is the Detroit Lions, a team that wasn't lovable like the Cubs, but about 50 years short of being pathetic like the Cubs.
I don't want to be elderly to see them finally win something big. Could they please win a Super Bowl, in like, 5-10 years??
My team is the Detroit Lions, a team that wasn't lovable like the Cubs, but about 50 years short of being pathetic like the Cubs.
I don't want to be elderly to see them finally win something big. Could they please win a Super Bowl, in like, 5-10 years??
1
OK, now let's get on to more important things: will the Mets make an honest effort to re-sign Yoenis Cespedes?
2
Cespedes is under contract for two more years...
Wish Harry Caray was here to see it. He brought life to the Cubs.
3
Congrats to the Cubbies. We were believers too.
1
Go Tribe
Thanks for the ride....
Thanks for the ride....
OMG - Now I am Sooo Tired from these late nights and tension filled games! We won, but now I need to go home and Crash & Burn to a Coco Crisp! LOL
3
Note that Steve Bartman did NOT interfere with the ball in 2003. The ball was in the stands, not in the field of play. He has been unfairly blamed for the epic Cubs collapse that followed, which he had NOTHING to do with.
According to the Chicago Tribune (may I use that here?), Bartman's actions prevented the pop foul ball from being caught. For his own safety, he was escorted out of the park by the police.
However, it is not fair to blame him for any "collapse" thereafter.
Judge for yourself by watching the video with the reporter's commentary at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KGhR5FLsNI
However, it is not fair to blame him for any "collapse" thereafter.
Judge for yourself by watching the video with the reporter's commentary at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KGhR5FLsNI
3
I'm 57 yrs old. I've never watched a baseball game in my life. I watched the last 5 innings of the game last night just because... I wanted the cubs to win for the history of it. And curses are dumb. I wanted to see this one laid to rest.
I watched the Bartman clip on YouTube to see if he interfered. Just curious, not vested one way or the other. He interfered. Would the Cubs guy have snagged it? We'll never know, but he definitely would have had a shot at it.
I watched the Bartman clip on YouTube to see if he interfered. Just curious, not vested one way or the other. He interfered. Would the Cubs guy have snagged it? We'll never know, but he definitely would have had a shot at it.
2
Theo Epstein is going to the Hall of Fame.
2
Grats Cubs. As a Clevelander, I am pretty depressed today, but not negative. We gave everyone coast to coast a hell of a Game 7, didn't we Chicago?
Baseball. This Series reminded me, there is no other sport like it. It is going to take a week for me to recover from the rollercoaster of last night.
But can I be allowed to say something, looking toward 2017?
Go Tribe! And let's do a rematch, Cubbies!
Baseball. This Series reminded me, there is no other sport like it. It is going to take a week for me to recover from the rollercoaster of last night.
But can I be allowed to say something, looking toward 2017?
Go Tribe! And let's do a rematch, Cubbies!
2
Come I sent a letter to the sports editor some time ago...
The idea was Mike Royko is in a cigarette smoke filled newspaper office LAUGHING and LAUGHING!!!
The Chicago Cubs are the World Serious Champions---
Thanks to John. R. Tunis --- Ring Lardner!!!
The idea was Mike Royko is in a cigarette smoke filled newspaper office LAUGHING and LAUGHING!!!
The Chicago Cubs are the World Serious Champions---
Thanks to John. R. Tunis --- Ring Lardner!!!
1
I am not a Cubs fan but enjoyed their play and their crazy fans over the years. They delivered this year. This has got to be the best Series I have ever seen played by two great clubs. It's not the dog in the fight, it's about the fight in the dog. Congrats to the Cubs and their legion of fans and thanks for a great season of baseball.
3
Many of us in Chicagoland think we have died (nuclear holocaust?) and gone to heaven. Has this really happened? So many friends, relatives who would have loved to see this. Thanks, Cubs, and no criticism of Joe Maddon. His managerial style helped to get us here. Can you criticise Terry Francona for bringing in Miller? Hey, it just played out the way it did and the best team won- no knock on Cleveland, also a great club, but, they need to change their name. Let's no longer treat our Native Americans as mascots.
6
There should be a movie about Theo Epstein called "Curse Buster". I am sure Bill Murray would love to play the part. Epstein is responsible for breaking the two longest curses in baseball.
3
Jean Sheperd is smiling, too!
It's very possible that the real MVP of the series might be Kyle Schwarber as the Cubs won three of their four games because he was in the line-up which entirely changed the way the Indians had to address the Cubs batter order. One of best natural hitters you'll ever see!
4
This wasn't just a series in which millions of suffering Cubs fans could finally rejoice. This was also a series that created millions of new Cubs fans, too - and Cleveland too.
Bravo to the best series of the 21st century - and certainly one of the best of all time.
Bravo to the best series of the 21st century - and certainly one of the best of all time.
3
Why are people trying to take away from the Cubs with statements such as "they did not win it so much as survive it " ? They came back from a 3-1 deficit and THEY WON ! So tired of people not giving Chicago teams the credit they deserve
4
This one's for you, Harry.
5
For a better World Series I may have to occupy myself with 108 years of distractions. It was such a matchup of evenly skilled and equally motivated teams, if they played game seven 100 times, the Indians would win 50. My heart suffered, but I was thrilled every step of the way. Our two young adult daughters grew up baseball fans and Cub fans, and now live in Chicago. Last night they both cried in Wrigleyville. One of the things I love most about sports is the communal experience across the fan base. Fans high fiving and hugging strangers, and adults looking up and winking and conversing with family members passed. Thanks to the Indians organization and fan base for being such noble competitors. I'm tired, but oh so very happy.
2
I'm glad I lived to see this one:
Nunc dimittis
The Song of a Cubs Fan
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word,
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which the Cubs have prepared before all baseball lovers,
To be a light to enlighten the non-believers and to be the glory of the faithful in Chicago.
Nunc dimittis
The Song of a Cubs Fan
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word,
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which the Cubs have prepared before all baseball lovers,
To be a light to enlighten the non-believers and to be the glory of the faithful in Chicago.
The ONLY images that I could not bear to watch were those of Cleveland Manger Terry Francona, who was constantly chewing & spitting, chewing & spitting, chewing & spitting, chewing & spitting, chewing & spitting, spitting, and spitting.
To me, it was disgusting, and I question the tv director's decision to have the man on camera so much. His continued appearance on our screens did nothing to enhance Fox's coverage of the Series.
To me, it was disgusting, and I question the tv director's decision to have the man on camera so much. His continued appearance on our screens did nothing to enhance Fox's coverage of the Series.
4
But you like to watch rizzo hump the air every time he bats?
I believe sainthood requires two miracles, and so Theo Epstein now qualifies (Red Sox in 2004, Cubs in 2016). But if we don't want to go for that, is it too late to start a write-in campaign for him for President? We need a miracle worker, especially one who is calm, patient, sagacious, and clearly brilliant. The managers last night were each part of one of his miracles: I wonder which he would choose as Vice President, to "manage" the Senate. Either would be a gem. Let's do this!
3
The rain delay that shifted momentum going into the 10th was apparently caused by 108 years of evaporated Cubs fans' tears, which reached Cleveland just in time.
64
It is a great day to be alive and for the folks in Chicago and great day to be CUBS fan! Job well done! I am a national league kind of guy even though I grew up in Ohio. I was able to attend the first game 1990 World Series with my Dad in Cincinnati. The Reds won in 4 games. He died 7 years ago but would have been proud of those CUBS! Now can you let Shoeless Joe in the Hall of Fame!
4
Congrats to the Cubs, made more amazing despite the truly awful managerial decisions by their manager, particularly his mind boggling pitching decisions. His premature removals of Lester and Hendricks when they were dominating Indian hitters and his unexplainable reliance on Aroldis Chapman to do what only Mariano Rivera was capable of. "Mr. Maddon, I know Mariano Rivera and Aroldis Chapman is no Mariano Rivera!"
12
Best Series since 1975 Reds and Red Sox. As the daughter of a White Sox scout, I am still thrilled for the Cubs. You made a lifetime baseball fan happy.
5
Woke up thinking and wishing that the presidential elections were more like the World Series. Two great rivals facing each other with remarkable skill and discipline; each wanting passionately to win the crown, both accepting defeat and victory with grace. Everybody wins!
20
Go Cubs. What a great game.
4
Wait 'til next year! Go Cubbies!
3
This has a total different meaning now.
If only Ron Santos and Harry Carey had lived long enough to see this day! I'm sure they were flying the W flag - wherever they are.
11
It was the summer of 1969, I was 8 years and just learned to how to play baseball and joined a team of diehard Cub fans. We listened daily to an album of Cub's fight songs that included the lyrics "hey, hey holy mackerel, no doubt about it the Chicago Cubs are on their way. They got the muscle, they got hustle..." Then September came and the infamous collapse occurred and the Mets stole the pennant from us. I never gave up hope that one day our dream would come true and 48yrs later it has. THANK YOU CHICAGO CUBS!
9
I was the same age, in the same town, listening to the same song, experiencing the same epic collapse. This morning I woke up with that silly song in my head. It was great.
Somewhere, probably in a cosmic bar, Harry Caray is smiling...
16
Last night, Budweiser ran a series of Harry Caray clips/ads. I cried for Harry, and Ron Santo, and Ernie Banks, and all of the rest of Cubs who are smiling somewhere.
4
I bet Harry has switched back to Bud by this time.
1
This was not only the best World Series ever seen that I can remember as a baseball fan,this 7th game was probably the BEST baseball game that baseball has ever seen period.I even had my oldest son,who is NOT a sports fan watching it.Both teams played their hearts out and both teams deserved to win,but the Cubs were just the best of the best.As a long time Cubs fan,this past season was some of the most entertaining baseball I have ever seen,as well as this World Series.I am so looking forward to next season and many seasons beyond of quality,championship baseball played by the Chicago Cubs.Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!
23
Considering the climate of recent months due to the impending election, this was such a lift out of the fog! So heart warmingly feel-good!
3
I agree, best game ever.
I am a Detroit Fan since 79, and I cheered for the Indians in the 90's world series (as a neutral)
But last night I was a cubs fan
Game 7 was the best world series game I ever saw, better than Kirk Gibson's game winner !!
Congratulations Chicago Cubs Fans
Go Cubs Go !!
I am a Detroit Fan since 79, and I cheered for the Indians in the 90's world series (as a neutral)
But last night I was a cubs fan
Game 7 was the best world series game I ever saw, better than Kirk Gibson's game winner !!
Congratulations Chicago Cubs Fans
Go Cubs Go !!
1
In the family of 6 (4 girls, 2 boys) I was the girly-girl who got teased for ducking when the baseball came her way rather than catching it.
It was the trailing end of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Money was scarce in those days.
But I collected the baseball cards that came in the chewing gum packages-I hadn't a clue really but I wanted to be included as part of the baseball-loving family (Go Phillies!).
What I remember most is putting those baseball cards with the pictures of a particular team's players inside my shoes to cover the holes in the soles.
And being embarrassed in the second grade when I forgot to keep my feet flat on the floor under my desk in school and got teased when my classmates saw a particular 'peeking' baseball player on the bottom of my foot.
It was the trailing end of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Money was scarce in those days.
But I collected the baseball cards that came in the chewing gum packages-I hadn't a clue really but I wanted to be included as part of the baseball-loving family (Go Phillies!).
What I remember most is putting those baseball cards with the pictures of a particular team's players inside my shoes to cover the holes in the soles.
And being embarrassed in the second grade when I forgot to keep my feet flat on the floor under my desk in school and got teased when my classmates saw a particular 'peeking' baseball player on the bottom of my foot.
14
The 2016 World Series will go down in history as one of the most memorable of all time. The epic combination of two long-time lovable losers, their diehard fans and these two Great Lakes cities really made for something incredible.
Cleveland was a class act. So much talent, fight and heart. Because the Indians and the Cubs have such similar histories it almost seemed a shame they had to play each other—though in the end I realized it was a perfect match-up. Seeing the long-suffering fans in the stands from both teams switching back and forth between elation and heartbreak was very emotional for me. The entire series was completely nerve-wracking down to the last out. I’ve been a Cubs fan/Bleacher bum since my 1980s Chicago childhood and quite honestly we never thought this day would come. Growing up a Cubs fan has been a character-builder. We learned from an early age how to face disappointment head-on and survive.
I am so grateful to have experienced this championship season in my lifetime, as so many of our loved ones , the folks who instilled love for the Cubs in our DNA, did not live to see this. Thank you, Cubbies, for flipping the script on history and bringing a World Series trophy to the North Side. It’s going to take me a long time to absorb this profound moment.
Cleveland was a class act. So much talent, fight and heart. Because the Indians and the Cubs have such similar histories it almost seemed a shame they had to play each other—though in the end I realized it was a perfect match-up. Seeing the long-suffering fans in the stands from both teams switching back and forth between elation and heartbreak was very emotional for me. The entire series was completely nerve-wracking down to the last out. I’ve been a Cubs fan/Bleacher bum since my 1980s Chicago childhood and quite honestly we never thought this day would come. Growing up a Cubs fan has been a character-builder. We learned from an early age how to face disappointment head-on and survive.
I am so grateful to have experienced this championship season in my lifetime, as so many of our loved ones , the folks who instilled love for the Cubs in our DNA, did not live to see this. Thank you, Cubbies, for flipping the script on history and bringing a World Series trophy to the North Side. It’s going to take me a long time to absorb this profound moment.
27
1. Great job broadcasting the job by Fox , so many great moments , Including a miked up Ross trying to calm an over emotional Rizzo in the dugout and great camera work on the Rajai Davis home run and its aftermath .
2. Heroic ninth inning pitched by Chapman pitching on fumes
3. Albert Alomora jr brillant tag up from FIRST base set up the chess match that became the top of the tenth
4. Rookie Carl Edwards jr comes in out of nowhere to get the first 2 outs of in the bottom of the 10 th that began the end of a 108 yr old curse
5. Rizzo caught stuffing the last out baseball into his back pocket
6. Bill Murray being happy, because. Bill Murray deserves to be happy
7 . Cub fans celebrating outside Wrigley field while the words World champs flash on the outside message board
8. It all coming down to Mike Montgomery, yeah , right , to nail down the last out with the mental health of an entire city resting on his left arm
9. Joe Maddon making it interesting when it didn't have to be because he knows how to make it interesting
10. The baseball gods arriving in the form of a ten minute rain delay- to lift the curse after 108 years
All that and more makes that one of the most exciting and amazing nights of baseball ever seen.
2. Heroic ninth inning pitched by Chapman pitching on fumes
3. Albert Alomora jr brillant tag up from FIRST base set up the chess match that became the top of the tenth
4. Rookie Carl Edwards jr comes in out of nowhere to get the first 2 outs of in the bottom of the 10 th that began the end of a 108 yr old curse
5. Rizzo caught stuffing the last out baseball into his back pocket
6. Bill Murray being happy, because. Bill Murray deserves to be happy
7 . Cub fans celebrating outside Wrigley field while the words World champs flash on the outside message board
8. It all coming down to Mike Montgomery, yeah , right , to nail down the last out with the mental health of an entire city resting on his left arm
9. Joe Maddon making it interesting when it didn't have to be because he knows how to make it interesting
10. The baseball gods arriving in the form of a ten minute rain delay- to lift the curse after 108 years
All that and more makes that one of the most exciting and amazing nights of baseball ever seen.
11
Joe Buck is awful. Fox was awful. The panel that included Alex Rodriquez was awful. Most Chicago Cubs fans watched it on TV with the radio on.
1
I agree with everything you said..I thought Rizzo bring a wreck was really nice..it adds a huge amount of humanity to a team that faced elimination in the playoffs and in the world series
1
I suspect that no one other than me and Joe Maddon saw the genius insight in pulling Kyle Hendricks for Lester then calling on Chapman then Edwards then Montgomery. Knowing that Zobrist and Montero would drive in runs in the tenth me and Joe knew we got this. And I am a White Sox fan who has loyally followed the Cubs since May. Really? I thought Maddon had lost his mind.
I took my grandsons to their 1st MLB game at Wrigley Field against the Marlins this year. The Cubs won the game in the bottom of the 9th with a come from behind walk-off wild pitch. Miracles became expectations.
"Go Cubs go! Hey Chicago what do you say the Cubs are going to win today" as the "W" is raised at Wrigley is sweet sounding music. The Cubs are now my other Chicago baseball team. We need and expect 3 or 4 more of the same.
I took my grandsons to their 1st MLB game at Wrigley Field against the Marlins this year. The Cubs won the game in the bottom of the 9th with a come from behind walk-off wild pitch. Miracles became expectations.
"Go Cubs go! Hey Chicago what do you say the Cubs are going to win today" as the "W" is raised at Wrigley is sweet sounding music. The Cubs are now my other Chicago baseball team. We need and expect 3 or 4 more of the same.
9
If it ain't the Yankees it means nothing.
The Boy's of November has given us an early Christmas gift! Yes Virginia- There is a Santa Claus! Cheers and how do I spell Belief? C-U-B-S ! The Bleacher Preacher is on happy fan!
4
This series was great for baseball and America. One of the most exciting series in a long time. Two teams that have been shut out for over 50years fought it out.
One team wins but there were no losers in this series. I think many Americans would have loved this to end with a tie but baseball doesn't work that way. After more than 18 months of a stressful Presidential Campaign this was what America needed. Congradulations Cubs!
One team wins but there were no losers in this series. I think many Americans would have loved this to end with a tie but baseball doesn't work that way. After more than 18 months of a stressful Presidential Campaign this was what America needed. Congradulations Cubs!
11
Best World Series game EVER.
9
Awesome series - not beautiful in execution but wonderful in the energy, grit, determination and resilience of both clubs. Best World Series since '75 or '86.
A Red Sox Fanatic
A Red Sox Fanatic
4
I give Terry Francona the goat horns for this 7th World Series game for Leaving Bryan Shaw in the game after the rain delay. Even though Bryan had his pitching arm wrapped in some towel on the bench during the delay it was obvious he had nothing when play resumed. Terry should have sent Trevor Bauer in to pitch as soon as play resumed We'll never know for sure, But I don't think the Cubs would have scored against Bauer in the top of the tenth inning. He easily retired the only two batters he faced and he looked to me like he was determined to redeem himself after his two defeats earlier in the series. If Trevor had pitched that whole inning The Indians would have won the World Series with that run they scored in the bottom of the inning.
Bauer already pitched. He can't re-enter.
1
Not all that relevant, since there were many moments on which the game turned. It's highly likely, for example, that the Indians wouldn't have come close if Maddon keeps Hendricks in, since was absolutely dominating Cleveland.
4
"As the ball made its flight accross the diamond, the stadium went silent for one of only a few times all night - and only until it settled in Rizzo's glove."
Great writing!
Great writing!
14
Serious students of baseball history must be thinking that history is repeating itself. Here are some reasons why: From 1903 to 1918, the MLB teams based in Chicago and Boston made up 25% of all the teams (4 out of 16--the Cubs, White Sox, Red Sox, and Braves) and won two-thirds of the first 15 World Series that were played. That's right, 10 of the first 15 WS went to teams in just two cities. Red Sox won 5, Cubs and White Sox two apiece, and the Braves one. Then from 1919 to 2003, none of these teams managed to win even one WS title while based in Boston or Chicago (the Braves decamped to Milwaukee and then Atlanta, winning one title in both places so far).
From 2004 to 2016, the remaining teams in Boston and Chicago have come back with a vengeance. Now making up just 10% of all MLB teams (3 out of 30), they've won 38.5% of the World Series played since '04--5 out of 13, with the Red Sox winning 3 and the Chicago teams winning one each.
Even the order of their first WS titles in the two centuries has been the same: Boston Red Sox (then the Americans) in 1903, White Sox in 1906, and Cubs in 1907. A century later it's Red Sox in 2004, White Sox in 2005, and Cubs in 2016.
And there's hope for Cleveland fans. Their team won its first WS in 1920 after all the Boston and Chicago teams had won titles first. So if the historical pattern holds up, Cleveland's time will come soon.
Great to see the Cubs win it all. No Sox fan (red or white) has any nostalgia for the pre-2004 era.
From 2004 to 2016, the remaining teams in Boston and Chicago have come back with a vengeance. Now making up just 10% of all MLB teams (3 out of 30), they've won 38.5% of the World Series played since '04--5 out of 13, with the Red Sox winning 3 and the Chicago teams winning one each.
Even the order of their first WS titles in the two centuries has been the same: Boston Red Sox (then the Americans) in 1903, White Sox in 1906, and Cubs in 1907. A century later it's Red Sox in 2004, White Sox in 2005, and Cubs in 2016.
And there's hope for Cleveland fans. Their team won its first WS in 1920 after all the Boston and Chicago teams had won titles first. So if the historical pattern holds up, Cleveland's time will come soon.
Great to see the Cubs win it all. No Sox fan (red or white) has any nostalgia for the pre-2004 era.
7
Interesting analysis, I had no idea. It seems then that Chicago and Boston have bright futures.
My girlfriend was texting me, "cubs are looking good". I texted back, "it's not over yet", and BAM, Rajai Davis hit the two run homer to tie the game. Then came the rain. I immediately thought, here are all of the Cub fans tears falling from the heavens..Well, thank you God..maybe you liked the Cubs just a little more!
10
The only bad part of this wonderfully entertaining game was the political ads between innings. One reason for watching the game was to get away from the election for a few hours. No such luck.
Maybe the networks should ban political advertising from sports broadcasts?
Sigh. That's probably a first amendment issue, and in any case I'm sure it's an economic issue.
Anyway, back to the game. Couldn't have been better, or have a better outcome. Cleveland will have its day soon enough, but it's high time the Maladictione di Capra (curse of the goat) was lifted.
Maybe the networks should ban political advertising from sports broadcasts?
Sigh. That's probably a first amendment issue, and in any case I'm sure it's an economic issue.
Anyway, back to the game. Couldn't have been better, or have a better outcome. Cleveland will have its day soon enough, but it's high time the Maladictione di Capra (curse of the goat) was lifted.
14
Agreed they should not have sold time to the NRA, any of the PACS, nor for any of the local politicians.
1
And somewhere Ernie Banks and Jack Brickhouse are smiling.
13
And Harry Caray.
4
One valuable lesson was learned from this remarkable series; the duration of a curse is seventy years.
I never knew that.
I never knew that.
2
From a Red Sox fan to the Cubs fans, congratulations on ending the drought! The Cubs fully earned the victories with hard work, perseverance and organization from top to bottom. The victory is only sweeter having come against a tough and worthy opponent. (I fully expect that Cleveland will win the Series sometime in the next few years.)
14
Congratulations. And may I say , I hope it's another 108 years before you win another.
Signed: a Chicago White Sox fan
Signed: a Chicago White Sox fan
5
Be quiet. The Cubs are back and they will win the World Series again soon
Ugh. Thanks for the congrats but you need to let go of the negativity. Why are White Sox fans such haters? Cubs fans don't have the same animosity towards the Sox. Jealousy maybe, for the lion's share of attention the Cubs always get.
2
Thrilled and ecstatic doesn't begin to describe how I am feeling because of the Cubs winning the World Series. But what I truly am is relieved (and exhausted) that this baseball season is finally over. I haven't had a full nor restful night's sleep since the playoffs weeks ago. Just when I thought the Cubs were done - BAM - they came back and were triumphant. But last night's tied game, rain delay, and then final extra innings was almost too much to bear. Thank you Cubs, the Cubs coaching staff and management for winning and for allowing me to finally have a good night's sleep.
23
Heads held high in Cleveland. Oh so close! Heartfelt congrats to the Cubs-true champions.
16
Talk about it not being over till it's over. In over 50 years of watching baseball, that was one of the wildest, most epic - albeit kind of sloppy - games I've ever seen. From the leadoff home run to the winning run at the plate in the bottom of the 10th, a Game 7 for the ages. It was only fitting that Cubs fans had to sweat it out till the end. What a way to end the drought.
There were a couple of notable oddities. Bryant tagging up and scoring from third on a pop-up barely past the infield. Ross being literally knocked over by a wild pitch that bounced and hit him in the mask, allowing Kipnis to score from second in addition to Santana from third. And then the players who were instrumental in both of those plays, Davis (who also misplayed the next hit) and Ross (who also made the throwing error preceeding the wild pitch), came back and redeemed themselves later. You couldn't have written this.
And as if the Cubs didn't have enough on their hands just trying to outplay the Indians, they had to overcome some truly questionable managing by Maddon. This may have been their year of destiny, but that was one stubborn curse. Now they're no longer the lovable losers, but in this particular incarnation, they're pretty likeable. And that's coming from a Mets fan.
There were a couple of notable oddities. Bryant tagging up and scoring from third on a pop-up barely past the infield. Ross being literally knocked over by a wild pitch that bounced and hit him in the mask, allowing Kipnis to score from second in addition to Santana from third. And then the players who were instrumental in both of those plays, Davis (who also misplayed the next hit) and Ross (who also made the throwing error preceeding the wild pitch), came back and redeemed themselves later. You couldn't have written this.
And as if the Cubs didn't have enough on their hands just trying to outplay the Indians, they had to overcome some truly questionable managing by Maddon. This may have been their year of destiny, but that was one stubborn curse. Now they're no longer the lovable losers, but in this particular incarnation, they're pretty likeable. And that's coming from a Mets fan.
33
What's all the excitement? Did the Dodgers finally win?
3
My first thought on hearing about the win was regret that two wonderful men, both born & raised in Chicago & life-long Cubbie fans, weren't alive to savor this moment. The first was my dad, who was born 7 years after the 1908 win & died 18 years before this one. The second was the gifted singer-songwriter Stevie Goodman, who died of leukemia in 1984 at the tragically young age of 36 (just 11 days before he was due to sing the national anthem at the Cubs' first-ever appearance in the Nat'l League play-offs). Goodman was best known for writing a song made famous by Arlo Guthrie "The City of New Orleans," but he also a memorable song called "A Dying Cub Fan's Last Request," about a man who asks his friends to cremate him & let his ashes scatter over Wrigley Field. I hope both of them are celebrating, wherever they are.
6
This win was karma: stop using that racist Chief Yahoo logo. Until then you are hereby cursed Cleveland.
5
So this is how it feels to win a World Series! WOW! Pretty darn awesome. I finally get what Yankee and Mets fans have felt over the years.
4
I have quite a few sports wishes. Those events I would like to see happen in my favourite sports. The Cubs winning the World Series was one of the wishes I thought would never come true. Glad I was wrong. Now this will end all the nonsense talk about baseball team curses. I am so happy for the Chicago fans.
5
For the Indians to come that agonizingly close to winning both Game 7 and the entire series after being up 3 games to 1 is far worse than simply being blown out. But that pain is your penance Indians fan, dispensed by the Great Spirit in the Sky, for your awful racist 19th century Chief Wahoo logo. May you continue to feel the pain and frustration of defeat for as long as you continue to dishonor yourselves and Native Americans with that logo.
4
Oh, lighten up.
1
Ummm, o.k., but why aren’t you also complaining about the Washington Redskins and their logo . . . ?
Jason Heyward showed us what a locker room talk is.
While it is still fresh in players minds, could some reporter please repeace it?
While it is still fresh in players minds, could some reporter please repeace it?
7
Cynderella Cubs
(Courtesy of Rogers & Hammerstein)
It’s Possible
It was possible for the North Siders to leave Cleveland in the dust.
It was possible since games six & seven wins were a must.
The Cubbies turned the World Series into a WIN!
Four Batters UP were turned into Four runs IN!
It’s Possible!
Cause the world is full of Cubs Fans and fools,
Who don’t believe that Strat-o-cast rules.
Who don’t believe what prognosticators say.
And because these daft and dewy-eyed dopes,
Keep building up Possible hopes –
Possible WINS were happening every day!
GO CUBBIES!
WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!!!!
(Courtesy of Rogers & Hammerstein)
It’s Possible
It was possible for the North Siders to leave Cleveland in the dust.
It was possible since games six & seven wins were a must.
The Cubbies turned the World Series into a WIN!
Four Batters UP were turned into Four runs IN!
It’s Possible!
Cause the world is full of Cubs Fans and fools,
Who don’t believe that Strat-o-cast rules.
Who don’t believe what prognosticators say.
And because these daft and dewy-eyed dopes,
Keep building up Possible hopes –
Possible WINS were happening every day!
GO CUBBIES!
WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!!!!
4
So I got home from ushering at The Long Center just before 11 (CDT) -- long show -- made myself a bite, poured wine, sat down, turned on the TV for company, found myself watching the 10th inning of game 7.
Wow.
Wow.
15
As the sage of baseball, Yogi Berra, said, "It ain't over till it's over."
What a great comeback by the Cubs, and now for them, the drought of a century IS over.
What a great comeback by the Cubs, and now for them, the drought of a century IS over.
7
I feel a personal connection to both teams.
My father was born in 1908 while I was born in 1948, both starting years of the great drought.
My father was born in 1908 while I was born in 1948, both starting years of the great drought.
7
I went to my first Cubs game in a stroller in 1950 and have had my heart broken by the Cubs so many times over the years, I don't even want to try to count them. Last night made up for it all. You do have to believe. And this is next year. I only wish my dad was here to see it.
40
Go Cubs! It was worth the wait!
1
How else could it have gone down?! Coming back, alike to only 5 other teams, down 3-1, past two defensive errors, through a rain delay, with a DH that was injured all year and who made a BIG difference, to ten innings tied up?! That's the only way it Should have gone down. #goCubsgo #FlytheW
3
What a great game it was!!! I'm exhausted! Congrats Cubbies!!!!
5
Can't wait till 2124 for the next Cubs championship.
7
As a transplant New Yorker to Chicago, (I was a Mets Fan), I can't remember a more thrilling series!!!
The Cubs played a roller coaster of a ride game and the win is well earned and deserved!!!
Can't wait for the welcome home party to begin here in Chicago!!
Go Cubs Go!
Now if only HRC wins the Presidency, it will be just as nail biting on November 8....2016 will shape up to have been a stellar year!
Go Hillary Go!
The Cubs played a roller coaster of a ride game and the win is well earned and deserved!!!
Can't wait for the welcome home party to begin here in Chicago!!
Go Cubs Go!
Now if only HRC wins the Presidency, it will be just as nail biting on November 8....2016 will shape up to have been a stellar year!
Go Hillary Go!
19
Still, it's great to get your mind off politics for a few hours.
However, no matter who wins next week, we'll still have baseball.
I hope.
However, no matter who wins next week, we'll still have baseball.
I hope.
3
kudos to all the participants on both teams - you gave us the best series since 1960. many thanks!
3
Can I be comment number 108? 108 stitches on a baseball, 108 years between Cubs world series! To watch the Cubs recover from 3-1 in Game 4, to start Game 7 with a home run, to watch their lead shrink to a tie at the end of the 9th inning, to have to wait while it rained...and then to come out swinging like Baseball Angels against an indomitable foe---What a Team! What a Game! What a Night!
39
For this old fan, brought up a few blocks from Ebbets Field in a family of rabid Brooklyn Dodger fans. this series brought back what is so uniquely decent and wonderful about the game of baseball. In the midst of this ugly, angry and unbecoming political season, the Cubs, Indians and their faithful supporters brought back the real, kinder, nobler America which is, thank heaven, still with us.
71
As a lifelong, diehard Cub fan, the sportsmanship the team displayed this year was heartening. First baseman Anthony Rizzo, for example, chatted it up with everyone and anyone who perched on his base.
Then, during the Series, when I saw the same sportsmanship from Cleveland, it gave stage to talented and driven athletes who see competition as an opportunity to excel without berating their opponents, looking angry about making good plays, or about individuals. The two teams were composed of teammates who truly cared for each other, and even their opponents under one of the most anxiety-filled Series ever. It was both refreshing and heartening to see, and to have the next generation see.
Then, during the Series, when I saw the same sportsmanship from Cleveland, it gave stage to talented and driven athletes who see competition as an opportunity to excel without berating their opponents, looking angry about making good plays, or about individuals. The two teams were composed of teammates who truly cared for each other, and even their opponents under one of the most anxiety-filled Series ever. It was both refreshing and heartening to see, and to have the next generation see.
10
I hear you OasisDR !! This series brought back listening to games on the radio with my father and the simple beauty of the game that got lost in all the money and promotion. Somehow all of that seemed to fade into the background and it was just two great teams involved in an epic struggle.
7
I agree with you Kelly.The sportsmanship showed by both teams is what got them into the World Series in the first place.Now,as a long time Cubs fan,if only the Chicago Bears applied the same sportsmanship as the Cubs and the Indians did this season,they might just find themselves in the Super Bowl.
1
I would have been happy to see either team win. They were both inspirational and deserving, the antithesis of next week's election.
37
Can someone explain why they call it world series? I didn't see them travelling to distant places. No offence of course!!!
3
The World Series is a match up of the champions of 2 leagues, which until 190something had never occurred before. At the time of its inception, there were really only 2 professional "big" leagues in the world.
2
The best I can tell you it that when professional baseball started there was no other major sport in world that I know of. With that said you would have to grown up in a major league city. The bleachers in Crosley field with my grandmother at 8 years old watching Hammer Hank Aaron. Pass me some peanuts and crackers and I don't care if I never get back.
2
I don't follow baseball much anymore, the game has gotten too glitzy and captivated-by-money for me. There was a time though when I used to run down to a newstand in my neighborhood to buy The Sporting News for a quarter so I could calculate the batting averages out to another decimal place; and even today Willie Mays remains the center fielder of my dreams.
3
You can't count on anything anymore. When I was growing up, certain things were simply part of baseball's landscape: the Cubs never won, the Red Sox came close but always failed, the White Sox were also-rans. Now all of these have been overturned in the last decade or so. What's next? "The world champion Padres"? "If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere; but you can't make it to the World Series"? I don't recognize baseball anymore.
Congratulation to the Cubs and Chicago.
Congratulation to the Cubs and Chicago.
8
Umbrage! Mr. Witz, I take umbrage at this remark in your story "On Wednesday night, the Cubs did not so much beat the Indians as survive them."
Really? And then you go on to write about the Cubs winning 103 games this season, the most in baseball. Then you write about all their rallies — and rallies aren't surviving, Mr. Witz, they're proof of the guts it takes to win. The Indians (get another name, Cleveland!) never led in Game 7. The Cubs BEAT Cleveland. And, yes, it was a great, tight, excruciating, glorious game, as it should be when it's Game 7 of the World Series. The best game I've ever seen. A beautiful thing. Because the Cubs did not survive the Indians, they beat them!
Right now, my dad and Ernie Banks are sharing a beer in baseball heaven.
Really? And then you go on to write about the Cubs winning 103 games this season, the most in baseball. Then you write about all their rallies — and rallies aren't surviving, Mr. Witz, they're proof of the guts it takes to win. The Indians (get another name, Cleveland!) never led in Game 7. The Cubs BEAT Cleveland. And, yes, it was a great, tight, excruciating, glorious game, as it should be when it's Game 7 of the World Series. The best game I've ever seen. A beautiful thing. Because the Cubs did not survive the Indians, they beat them!
Right now, my dad and Ernie Banks are sharing a beer in baseball heaven.
73
The rain delay, which allowed the rattled Cubs to settle down and get their heads together, was the difference in the game. Without it the Cubs would have lost. God obviously trusts the polls showing Ohio will vote for Trump next week - the rainstorm was His prospective punishment to the state for that.
16
Sign of the Apocalypse?
1
I knew I'd seen a few horses on the field ... I thought those guys were there for that Camaro!
If the FSM wills it to be so. or maybe not.
Cubs and their fans -- The Red Sox Nation congratulate and salute you. Welcome to the club of "World Series Champions!"
15
I think in the middle of all the political nastiness...this is just a great store.
We needed this, baseball needed this and certainly the Cubs needed this.
It has been along time since baseball has been this good... Congrats to all.
I lived in Chicago for many years. I wish i was there to enjoy this with the Cubs faithful--in one of those great North side watering holes.
We needed this, baseball needed this and certainly the Cubs needed this.
It has been along time since baseball has been this good... Congrats to all.
I lived in Chicago for many years. I wish i was there to enjoy this with the Cubs faithful--in one of those great North side watering holes.
13
For Ernie - May you Rest In Eternal Joy
19
Jason Heyward earned every penny of his $184 million contract with one speech Wednesday night.
The grace show by all the Cubs in their post game speech's, with acknowledgements to the fine play of the Indians is so sorely lacking this year.
The grace show by all the Cubs in their post game speech's, with acknowledgements to the fine play of the Indians is so sorely lacking this year.
13
The Cubs relied so heavily on Chapman, who was acquired just two months before and who is now a free agent. This is not to take away from their accomplishment. And in making heavy use of a superstar rent-a-player, they just did what every team does in this day and age. But it makes me nostalgic for the old days when your hometown team was more consistently the same throughout the year and year after year. What does it mean, after all, when a Cubs fan pumps their fist and says "Aroldis Champman, he's our guy!"
6
Raja Davis's home run in the eighth brought back memories of Bernie Carbo's shot in the 6th game of the 1975 series that has been called the greatest World Series game ever played. I was at Fenway that day. Last night's game had similar drama.
1
My wife went to bed in the 6th inning last night. In 75 she went to bed when Bernie came to the plate. I still feel the loneliness.
Kudos to the Cubbies for hanging tough and following through. Ditto for Theo Epstein and Joe Maddon, on whose cake this must be the supreme icing.
There would be something terribly wrong if this season and series doesn't earn him his fourth Manager of the Year award.
There would be something terribly wrong if this season and series doesn't earn him his fourth Manager of the Year award.
6
The final jinx for the Indians was their logo.
Winning teams don't promote stereotypical images.
Winning teams don't promote stereotypical images.
13
"The Cubs then had to hold their breath in the bottom of the inning when Davis hit a run-scoring single to pull the Indians to a run behind."
Not only were the Cubs holding their breath, but ALL Cubs FANS were holding their breath at that point as well as through much of the series. My cheekbones are beginning to hurt from the constant smile I've had on my face since last night. Thank goodness that maddening Cubs phrase "Well, there's always next year" won't be uttered for another century.
The only thing worse than losing the World Series is losing it in Game 7 in one's hometown. If I wasn't so happy for Chicago, I'd be crying for Cleveland.
Not only were the Cubs holding their breath, but ALL Cubs FANS were holding their breath at that point as well as through much of the series. My cheekbones are beginning to hurt from the constant smile I've had on my face since last night. Thank goodness that maddening Cubs phrase "Well, there's always next year" won't be uttered for another century.
The only thing worse than losing the World Series is losing it in Game 7 in one's hometown. If I wasn't so happy for Chicago, I'd be crying for Cleveland.
25
The Cubs' win unfolded as a beautiful, balletic contest. It was cathartic, as though all the tension and anxiety that has built up in this grimy election years shifted for a few hours to the honored national game. Close-up shots of the fans showed people with tightly folded arms, nail-biting, praying, clutching rosary beads, compressing lips, grinding teeth, clenching jaws--and bursts of hope that could not be held in any longer. It was a brilliantly played game between two strong teams telling us decency and fair play still exists in this country.
97
Thanks to the Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs for a great series, for being the best in baseball, and providing a badly needed respite from a year of vitriol in this Presidential campaign and politics in general. Especially thanks for demonstrating the kind of spirit, civility, humility, leadership, teamwork and commitment that personifies leaders and champions. I can only hope that some in Washington and the campaigns take notice.
128
Some women celebrate when we can shimmy into our wedding dress after 42 years. That I can still fit into my Cubs tee shirt sends me over the moon. Chicago, you gave us the game of a lifetime.
29
My grandfather was born the year the Cubs last won the World Series. He spent his life following the Cubs, walking to games with his father. My dad too was a lifelong fan and I wish he had lived to see them take it all! Personally, my childhood remains forever scarred by their 1969 collapse, which marked me for life with a visceral hatred of the Mets. The Cubs also taught me that you could cut class in high school, go to a game and (if your grades were good enough) no one cared! Two bucks would get you through the gate then. I'm training my daughter as the 5th generation to follow in the family tradition. And just wait till next year!
24
Which tradition, attending games or cutting school? lol
2
For the Cubs and Red Sox, the "curse" was bad management. Theo Epstein is one of the greatest GMs of all time. Congratulations to Cubs fans. Enjoy!
16
The Cubs went to the World Series three years in a row in 1906, 1907 and 1908 and won the last two. Maybe they will be in the Series for the next two years.
Could not have been a more exciting game.
Could not have been a more exciting game.
7
Worth remembering is that those were, respectively, the 3rd, 4th, and 5th World Series; in other words the Cubs won two of the first five WS and were in three of that five.
(Who won the 1st World Series, in 1903? The Boston Red Sox. The next, in 1905, was won by the NY Giants. In 1906 it was the White Sox that beat the Cubs.)
Congratulations to the Cubs and their fans, including my late father and one of my sons.
(Who won the 1st World Series, in 1903? The Boston Red Sox. The next, in 1905, was won by the NY Giants. In 1906 it was the White Sox that beat the Cubs.)
Congratulations to the Cubs and their fans, including my late father and one of my sons.
2
I'm a dyed in the wool Yankees fan, a loyal Billy Martin fan (which lead me to being a Mariners fan briefly), an American league devotee and all I can say is GO CUBS!!!!!!!
Congrats guys! Long time coming!
Congrats guys! Long time coming!
16
This is one of the best W. Series games I have seen in a while. The back and forth, the rain, the x-tra innings, yes, really exciting. I discussed with my son a few wks ago, that the Cubs were going to win, and he thought I was really off the mark. My take on this was come on, let Chicago fans have this one. They deserve it. Not that Cleveland didn't play well, I mean look at the final score! Very close, down to the wire.
Indians franchise, do away with that racist, downgrading logo. Cleveland folks, start a petition, and have people draw and write suggestions for a new look to adorn the player's uniforms, please!
Indians franchise, do away with that racist, downgrading logo. Cleveland folks, start a petition, and have people draw and write suggestions for a new look to adorn the player's uniforms, please!
20
This Cleveland fan totally agrees Chief Wahoo has to go. Congrats to the Cubs. What a Series!
2
I am a White Sox fan, but a tip of the cap to the Cubs. They were the best team in baseball in 2016 by pretty much any measure so they deserved the championship. And no team should have to continue to carry a championship drought of 108 years. I am glad that's over. Now warm up the Hot Stove....
19
Now, onto what will most certainly be the wildest and largest party and parade in professional sports history.
If the scheduling works, I am driving my family out for it. So will many, many others from all parts of the US and even beyond.
If the scheduling works, I am driving my family out for it. So will many, many others from all parts of the US and even beyond.
5
Ans now the whole world love's the Cubs, congratulations and well-deserved!
4
I was raised in Chicago and was at the game, I cut school,when the Cubs moved into first place after beating the Mets. And then the collapse..... I was too nervous to watch the game last night and could only listen to the broadcast in another room. When the incredible happened all I could say were the names Ernie Banks, Ron Santo,Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins. They were there, in person and in spirit, great players all. What a game last night. What a team, then and now. We had grace when we lost then. It's so much sweeter to have grace as WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!
14
World Champions? I thought it was US and Canada Champions.
2
Stop raining on their parade Giovanni.
3
Rizzo shadowboxing while half dressed in the locker room? HHHMMM I should have gotten a gig as a locker room attendant in the visitors clubhouse :-)
That was a very good game last night! Congratulations Cubs from a NY Yankee fan
That was a very good game last night! Congratulations Cubs from a NY Yankee fan
3
What a game, what a rollercoaster ride. The players saved Maddon, he would have gone down as a horrible manager for his overuse of Chapman. And the Tribe, even a great manager like Francona misused Miller but that team played great all year. What an unbelievable game 7. Now come on Tigers, make another run for Miggy.
6
So happy for Cubs fans & folks like Bill Murray, Vince Vaughn, Steve Bartman, and the guys walking around Princeton these past few weeks wearing nervous expressions and faded Cubs hats.
I know just how they feel. The Yankees haven't won a World Series going on 7 years now. (Has it been that long?) Last night's game demonstrates why baseball will always be the National Pastime. I would love to see at least one World Series day game.
But, I digress.
I want to remember the great Ernie Banks. Mr. Cub. "Let's play two." Two time National League MVP.
Met him on a Manhattan street in the early 1980s. He could not have been kinder to me - a complete stranger. What a lovely man! Too bad he isn't here to enjoy this.
I didn't hear any of the Fox guys mention his name. Vin Scully would have.
I know just how they feel. The Yankees haven't won a World Series going on 7 years now. (Has it been that long?) Last night's game demonstrates why baseball will always be the National Pastime. I would love to see at least one World Series day game.
But, I digress.
I want to remember the great Ernie Banks. Mr. Cub. "Let's play two." Two time National League MVP.
Met him on a Manhattan street in the early 1980s. He could not have been kinder to me - a complete stranger. What a lovely man! Too bad he isn't here to enjoy this.
I didn't hear any of the Fox guys mention his name. Vin Scully would have.
24
First the Red Sox. Now the Cubs. Theo Epstein for president.
21
Or at least head of the EPA. That man's management eliminated over 200 years of drought.
Great series, great team, great town. Congratulations, Chicago....
18
I felt as though I were living through that entire 108 year drought all week.
22
This is just the lift our country needed. I'm not a big sports fan but I sure did enjoy that game last night, right here in my house, all by myself, hootin' and hollerin' with the window wide open. Cubs, I hug you guys!!
42
I don't own a television, and some of the rules of the game (like that out called on the attempted bunt) were new to me, but even I stopped into my local hangout, ultimately the last to leave, to watch the final innings. A nice moment of Americana--fresh exuberant, uninhibited. And who can't hope that a team will nail it at least once in 108 years? Next year, I hope that the Indians will do the same.
15
As a born and bred Chicagoan:
While it worked out in the end, I think the Cubs should have wrapped it up in nine innings. I question two of Maddon's late-game decisions:
1) He should have left Lester in in the 8th. That 2-out, in-field single would have been an out 9 times out of 10. In other words, Lester was still getting ahead of the Indians' batters;
2) He should not have ordered Baez to bunt with one out and the bases loaded in the top of the 9th. The infield was in and Baez had homered in the fifth. Also, you can see that the pitch he bunted was a fat one that he would have crushed, if not homered.
So let me know what you hear from Chicago fans. In sum, the Cubs lucked out. But I'll take it!
While it worked out in the end, I think the Cubs should have wrapped it up in nine innings. I question two of Maddon's late-game decisions:
1) He should have left Lester in in the 8th. That 2-out, in-field single would have been an out 9 times out of 10. In other words, Lester was still getting ahead of the Indians' batters;
2) He should not have ordered Baez to bunt with one out and the bases loaded in the top of the 9th. The infield was in and Baez had homered in the fifth. Also, you can see that the pitch he bunted was a fat one that he would have crushed, if not homered.
So let me know what you hear from Chicago fans. In sum, the Cubs lucked out. But I'll take it!
4
I started to say to my wife this morning, "Of course there are always winners and losers in sports, but when you lose in one of the greatest baseball games ever played..." She finished my thought, ".,,you're still a winner." Hail all. Stupendous game.
52
...and worthy of the wait...
7
A series that had it all - great pitching, hitting, grit, and two of the classiest managers in the game. Disappointing to observe that increasingly most of the attendees are well-heeled, able to afford to attend these epic events, not only baseball but witness the NFL, NBA, NHL. That said, this was a wonderful diversion from the other big game in town, the battle of the heavy weights - Clinton versus Trump.
17
Most exciting game I have ever watched. What a way to win a Championship!
62
This is super news for the Cubbies and their fans. There is nothing like the joy that surrounds the hometown city after a big victory - and now we can finally turn the page on this silly 108 year curse. And how about a "sorry" to Steve Bartman from all the Cubs "fans" who ruined the kids life for doing what any fan would do - reach for a foul ball. I am very happy for the Cubs fans - and Indians - it was a heck of a series.
26
This is a consequential benchmark in my long life as an ardent baseball fan.
I attached my sentiment -- living in the shadow of NYC -- to the Brooklyn Dodgers in the late 1940s. This was well before my tenth birthday, Today I attribute my devotion to Brooklyn because of Jackie Robinson.
But being a Dodger fan was a struggle. They lost the World Series in my early lifetime in 1947, 1949, 1952, and 1953. Each time their opponent was the NY Yankees, then setting their amazing five consecutive World Series victories.
Then in 1955 the Dodgers won the World Series. But two years later the team's owner, Walter O'Malley, engineered their move to Los Angeles in tandem with the NY Giants move to San Francisco. I was devastated and really lacked a "home team" thereafter.
Then in 1974 I took a position in metropolitan Chicago. Our son Ian, then a second grader, instantly identified himself as a Cubs fan. I quickly caught on.
Soon enough I learned that having been a Brooklyn Dodger fan provided admirable training as a rooted for the Cubbies.
So now the circle is complete > the Brooklyn victory in 1955 and the Cubbies World Series championship at long last in 2016.
Both of these events tested this fan's fortitude. Wilfred Sheed once wrote something to the effect that being a longtime sports fan provides admirable preparation for living one's life.
So for the second time -- 1955 and 2016 -- I stand upon the mountaintop rather than trudging along in the valley of despair,
I attached my sentiment -- living in the shadow of NYC -- to the Brooklyn Dodgers in the late 1940s. This was well before my tenth birthday, Today I attribute my devotion to Brooklyn because of Jackie Robinson.
But being a Dodger fan was a struggle. They lost the World Series in my early lifetime in 1947, 1949, 1952, and 1953. Each time their opponent was the NY Yankees, then setting their amazing five consecutive World Series victories.
Then in 1955 the Dodgers won the World Series. But two years later the team's owner, Walter O'Malley, engineered their move to Los Angeles in tandem with the NY Giants move to San Francisco. I was devastated and really lacked a "home team" thereafter.
Then in 1974 I took a position in metropolitan Chicago. Our son Ian, then a second grader, instantly identified himself as a Cubs fan. I quickly caught on.
Soon enough I learned that having been a Brooklyn Dodger fan provided admirable training as a rooted for the Cubbies.
So now the circle is complete > the Brooklyn victory in 1955 and the Cubbies World Series championship at long last in 2016.
Both of these events tested this fan's fortitude. Wilfred Sheed once wrote something to the effect that being a longtime sports fan provides admirable preparation for living one's life.
So for the second time -- 1955 and 2016 -- I stand upon the mountaintop rather than trudging along in the valley of despair,
86
Thank you for summing up my feelings exactly. As a kid growing up in upstate New York, I lived and died for the Brooklyn Dodgers and wanted to be Duke Snider when I grew up (never mind that as a girl, this was an impossible fantasy). When the Dodgers moved to LA, I was devastated. Now I live in NYC and am a Yankees fan, but this series I have been a Cubs fan all the way.
What a fabulous World Series and kudos to both teams for showing class and grit, and for demonstrating why baseball really is the heart of America.
Congrats, Cubbies!!
What a fabulous World Series and kudos to both teams for showing class and grit, and for demonstrating why baseball really is the heart of America.
Congrats, Cubbies!!
12
I'm a Yankees fan, but this Midwest battle was the best World Series I've ever seen. Incredible pitching throughout, and great clutch-hitting, coaching and consistent defense all around. Both clubs played as true teams. Great playoffs before the Series as well.
Congrats to Chicago on their hard-fought win, and thanks to Cleveland for an amazing season.
Congrats to Chicago on their hard-fought win, and thanks to Cleveland for an amazing season.
149
Congrats to the Cubs and the Cubs Nation of fans. However, I do wonder if the team will be as lovable now that they've made it to the top? I mean how much of the team's charm and attraction was they always blew it?
15
It will be a memorable World Series with two franchises that both deserved to win. The Cubs never gave up and the Indians played their hearts out as well. Congratulations to the fans of Wrigleyville and the rest of the Windy City.
38
The Cleveland Indians will never, ever win a World Series until they get rid of that racist caricature worn on their uniforms they named Chief Wahoo!? There was a book about Cleveland and the curse of Rocky Colavito. How would Italian-Americans have liked a racist Italian caricature logo named Giuseppe?! The real curse is that upon the heads of all racists and supporters of such symbolic racism.
A New York Times sportswriter needs to write something about this.
A New York Times sportswriter needs to write something about this.
64
There were two Times pieces on this a few days ago. Such righteous, essentially religious, pontificating as this leftist's post is to a large extent what has empowered the ultra-right and Trump phenomenon to gain and keep traction.
4
There ya go Steve [Goodman]…… Write us a new song and send it down.
30
OK Cubs win so can we retire all talk about curses? OK except this one: Cleveland, you too can do this too, and maybe getting rid of not only that face on the hat but also the guy in the stands (he's been there since the 90s) would help. Dumb symbolism aside I gotta say he'd be a total buzzkill if I had to sit near him at the game.
24
i guess some people realized I meant the guy with the drum
1
The last time the Cubs won the World Series the Ottomans still ruled one of world's largest empires.
94
My write-in protest vote (in safe blue state) vindicated:
#JoeMaddonPopeFrancis2016
Go cubs go!
#JoeMaddonPopeFrancis2016
Go cubs go!
10
Reading this story brought a tear to my eye, even though I stopped following baseball at age 14, after the 1972 players' strike.
I don't know any of these players or the team's stats, but I grew up in Chicago as a Cubs fan and I find myself nostalgic for my youth, of watching games on sultry afternoons in the coolness of our basement, listening to West Coast night games on my red transistor radio under my pillow, and occasionally basking in the sun of Wrigley Field's bleacher seats with friends or my dad. And reading and re-reading Douglass Wallop's "The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant."
Congrats to the team and all its long-suffering, now jubilant fans.
I don't know any of these players or the team's stats, but I grew up in Chicago as a Cubs fan and I find myself nostalgic for my youth, of watching games on sultry afternoons in the coolness of our basement, listening to West Coast night games on my red transistor radio under my pillow, and occasionally basking in the sun of Wrigley Field's bleacher seats with friends or my dad. And reading and re-reading Douglass Wallop's "The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant."
Congrats to the team and all its long-suffering, now jubilant fans.
31
The Cubs' victory last night was certainly the most thrilling World Series Game 7 since Pittsburgh's 10-9 win over the Yankees in 1960.
Joe Maddon's questionable bullpen management in the last two games makes him the most fortunate World Series manager since Davey Johnson in 1986, whose bizarre decision to double-switch Darryl Strawberry out of Game 6 was rewarded with an equally fortunate World Championship two nights later.
Joe Maddon's questionable bullpen management in the last two games makes him the most fortunate World Series manager since Davey Johnson in 1986, whose bizarre decision to double-switch Darryl Strawberry out of Game 6 was rewarded with an equally fortunate World Championship two nights later.
10
Thrilled for the Cubs! And thanks to Billy Witz for excellent sports reporting.
2
Theooooooooo! Wow! Not once but twice! Red Sox and now the Cubs?! I guess pigs flew.
5
Gutsy dudes hanging tough. Inspiring on both sides to watch them fight through under fire. Behind the players' stoic, stubbled masks, emotions rollick as they would for any of us. Did everyone catch Rizzo's aside to Ross in the 7th: "I'm an emotional wreck!" He wasn't the only one. Bravo, boys, and a tip of the cap. You showed us something fine in a grim season.
33
Not a stretch to say that was the best baseball game I've ever watched. Finally some good news after a year of watching the most unlikeable people on earth battle for a job nobody wants either of them to do. Is it too late for Yearbook Guy to run for president?
10
nod under their blue caps with a sheepish hope they were just sure would be dashed. Happy days! Now if the Dems can take the Senate, we might just be on our way out of Dystopia USA …https://goo.gl/d3PBn3
10
This means we can now expect the Cubs to win the Series every 108 years.
The way I figure it, there may be about 20 babies today who will be alive when the Cubs win again in 2124.
The way I figure it, there may be about 20 babies today who will be alive when the Cubs win again in 2124.
8
And 19 of them will be named Theo.
Seriously, it's all about the Red Sox. What sort of a series would it have been if Epstein, Tito, Ross, miller, etc etc etc had not been there?
Seriously, it's all about the Red Sox. What sort of a series would it have been if Epstein, Tito, Ross, miller, etc etc etc had not been there?
1
What a wonderful World Series! Fight to very end and come up friends, so proud of each other!
Having grown up deep in the Ozarks I was a St. Louis fan. On a warm summer night the only radio station we could get was KMOX St. Louis. I loved the Cards and Cubs battles.
Moving to Kansas City as an adult I had to go American League and survived World Series wins so far apart it hurt.
After spending a summer in Cleveland, what a great city. Chains of parks, museums, art galleries, all on a big lake.
Anyway, the Midwest is not fly over country anymore. It is a landing destination where you can have a wonderful life.
Having grown up deep in the Ozarks I was a St. Louis fan. On a warm summer night the only radio station we could get was KMOX St. Louis. I loved the Cards and Cubs battles.
Moving to Kansas City as an adult I had to go American League and survived World Series wins so far apart it hurt.
After spending a summer in Cleveland, what a great city. Chains of parks, museums, art galleries, all on a big lake.
Anyway, the Midwest is not fly over country anymore. It is a landing destination where you can have a wonderful life.
14
Uh oh, hope that this portend success for that other prominent loser from Chicago.
3
One of the best games of baseball ever played. Congratulations to everyone, on both sides -- everyone involved should be proud. This is exactly how you want sports history to be made: two teams playing their hearts out, never giving up, with mutual respect, so that victory really *means* something and everyone can feel good about the outcome, whoever wins. Weirdly, this game has made me feel better about my country than I have all year.
One note: I think at 'this point if you're gonna mention Steve Bartman in a piece, you need to put it in context. In my opinion, he was doing what any fan would do, and now the poor guy gets forever mentioned along with the Billy Goat curse. Rumor has it he's still a Cubs fan. I hope, somewhere, he's happy tonight.
One note: I think at 'this point if you're gonna mention Steve Bartman in a piece, you need to put it in context. In my opinion, he was doing what any fan would do, and now the poor guy gets forever mentioned along with the Billy Goat curse. Rumor has it he's still a Cubs fan. I hope, somewhere, he's happy tonight.
65
My 9 year old son is a huge cubs fan. This was his first year watching a full world series he will have memories of. This is also his first election year which he will have memories of and talk to his kids about. I hope he will tell my grandkids of the historic fall of 2016 when the Cubs won and America elected the first woman President.
119
Brilliant
11
Finally!! What a wonderful occasion. Thank you, Cubs for such an amazing season.
17
Thank you Chicago Cubs and Cleveland lndians for a terrific World Series. Baseball really needed a Series like this to stem the dwindling popularity of the sport.
Basketball still needs something truly revolutionary to return it to its popular glory. How about a true World Series Commissioner with national teams from around the world?
Basketball still needs something truly revolutionary to return it to its popular glory. How about a true World Series Commissioner with national teams from around the world?
11
I can't wait to see them at the White House greater by a Chicagoan president !!! This is big!
79
White House, you think?
Might be re-named Trump's Palace!
The Cubs reception? Call the catering department
Let's hope not
Might be re-named Trump's Palace!
The Cubs reception? Call the catering department
Let's hope not
2
Pigs have been sighted flying over Chicago and ski slopes have opened in Hades....yep, they finally won!
52
What's baseball without curses?
8
An exiled White Sox fan living in Pennsylvania, two things I never thought I'd say:
It's finally Next Year for the Cubs and ... [gulp]
Congratulations!
It's finally Next Year for the Cubs and ... [gulp]
Congratulations!
23
Dodger fan here since they were in Brooklyn. If it couldn't be my guys...
So happy for the Cubs.
Sad-happy for the Indians, who are also great. A run away from winning the Series.
Pleased as can be that the A-Roids sank again.
Yankees: cleanse yourself of the stink of this turd and I'll be happy to see your terrific young guys bloom into major stars. But lord, Yankee fans, embracing El Cheato the way you did...You're like Trumps. Who cares about decency, it's all about winning. Wake up, New York. Sports are about the pain, the suffering, the decency, the honor.
Did I hear someone say, "Let's go, Mets"? They would be cool to see in the next Series, too.
My Dodgers? They're like the Clippers. Good enough to make the playoffs.
So happy for the Cubs.
Sad-happy for the Indians, who are also great. A run away from winning the Series.
Pleased as can be that the A-Roids sank again.
Yankees: cleanse yourself of the stink of this turd and I'll be happy to see your terrific young guys bloom into major stars. But lord, Yankee fans, embracing El Cheato the way you did...You're like Trumps. Who cares about decency, it's all about winning. Wake up, New York. Sports are about the pain, the suffering, the decency, the honor.
Did I hear someone say, "Let's go, Mets"? They would be cool to see in the next Series, too.
My Dodgers? They're like the Clippers. Good enough to make the playoffs.
6
I can imagine our Chicago ancestors smiling from above! :)
8
In 1908 there was still a Czar in Russia
Horses were being replaced by cars
Women could not vote
The Cubs won the World Series
What a long strange trip it's been
Thanks Cubbies!!
Horses were being replaced by cars
Women could not vote
The Cubs won the World Series
What a long strange trip it's been
Thanks Cubbies!!
50
Absolute incredible game. Making history!
3
Congratulations to the Cubs! What an awesome day for the Cubs fans everywhere. Enjoy your moment in the sun my friends!!
17
When I saw the Grand Canyon back in the 80's I was awestruck by it's majesty. It is Tennyson's ten thousand cathedrals rolled into one. It is a breathtaking, immensely spiritual experience. Standing on the south rim I had an epiphany; I had seen the true magnificence of God and nature in all it's glory and being so blessed I could die content, having lived a fully rich life.
Tonight, trying to shake off that cognitive dissonance of the Cubs winning, not just the pennant but the whole thing, we were struck dumb. Words failed. Whiskeys in hand, pondering a toast that was appropriate for this most singular and extraordinary thing that had eluded our fathers and grandfathers before us, I thought of the last time I had felt so blessed in the face of such a rare and beautiful thing and these words fell out of my mouth,
"You know, this means we can die now."
To the Cubs! And to all of their patient, ever upbeat and hopeful fans.
Tonight, trying to shake off that cognitive dissonance of the Cubs winning, not just the pennant but the whole thing, we were struck dumb. Words failed. Whiskeys in hand, pondering a toast that was appropriate for this most singular and extraordinary thing that had eluded our fathers and grandfathers before us, I thought of the last time I had felt so blessed in the face of such a rare and beautiful thing and these words fell out of my mouth,
"You know, this means we can die now."
To the Cubs! And to all of their patient, ever upbeat and hopeful fans.
34
First all the talk was Bumgarner Bumgarner Bumgarner.
Cubs win.
Then it was Kershaw Kershaw Kershaw.
Cubs win.
Finally it was Kluber Kluber Kluber.
CUBS WIN WORLD SERIES!
World Champions, well deserved.
Cubs win.
Then it was Kershaw Kershaw Kershaw.
Cubs win.
Finally it was Kluber Kluber Kluber.
CUBS WIN WORLD SERIES!
World Champions, well deserved.
13
Joe Buck couldn't hide his disapproval for Maddon's pitcher management. It did seem that the better the pitcher was doing, the sooner Maddon took him out. After 108 years, you have to try something new.
4
Best World Series I've ever watched! Bravo Cubbies and the wonderful fans in Chicago! You deserve it after 108 years!!
15
Nothing lasts forever, not even cold November rain...or a 108 year drought.
4
Looking forward to the Chicago Cubs greeting President Clinton at the White House next year!!!
After all what's 108 years of waiting compared to 240 years...
After all what's 108 years of waiting compared to 240 years...
62
The dinosaurs go extinct.
Jesus Christ
WWI
WWII
US lands man on moon
Cubs when the world series in 2016.
-The History of Earth
Jesus Christ
WWI
WWII
US lands man on moon
Cubs when the world series in 2016.
-The History of Earth
15
Beautiful!
Congrats to the Cubs! great, great game! (Now that the World Series is over for this year, just wanted to let you all know that Canada had a meeting about the Toronto/Cleveland series and, being the nice neighbors we are, and knowing what a rough year it's been for America with the election and all, we decided the Jays could wait till next year to kick butt!! little joke)
8
That's what worries me.
If the Cubs can win the WS, what else can happen?
If the Cubs can win the WS, what else can happen?
2
What a game! What champions! And what a welcome respite from this train wreck of an election!
18
I went to first my Cubs game in 1960 and remained tried and true to Cubbie Blue ever since. Witnessing this victory is a dream come true. It is fantastic to say "We are the Champions of the World"
11
I would have liked my home team to win, but I'm glad the Cubs fans finally got that victory they'd been craving for so long. And both teams played extremely well, with no major incidents of unsportsmanlike actions on either side.
Maybe we'll see a repeat next year? That would be good for everybody.
Maybe we'll see a repeat next year? That would be good for everybody.
108
That's the biggest, most exciting headline you could come up with? Jeez, New Yorkers. No sense of what it means to be a Cubs fan.
We're a four-hour drive from Chicago, and even the guy handing out samples at Sam's last weekend was wearing Cubs regalia. Cubs fans would pass each other in the street, nod under their blue caps with a sheepish hope they were just sure would be dashed. Happy days! Now if the Dems can take the Senate, we might just be on our way out of Dystopia USA …
We're a four-hour drive from Chicago, and even the guy handing out samples at Sam's last weekend was wearing Cubs regalia. Cubs fans would pass each other in the street, nod under their blue caps with a sheepish hope they were just sure would be dashed. Happy days! Now if the Dems can take the Senate, we might just be on our way out of Dystopia USA …
349
@C. Wolfe, with regard to your comments about the "exciting" headlines . . . . remember, this is the New York Times, not the New York Daily News or the New York Post.
5
They need the House, too. Next redistricting. Watch the 2022 election.
Regarding "four-hour drive from Chicago..." I did that 800-mile drive in a Beemer a number of times quite a few years back, when the interstates were less crowded with traffic. Never could average 200 miles an hour.
Got any tips on how?
Regarding "four-hour drive from Chicago..." I did that 800-mile drive in a Beemer a number of times quite a few years back, when the interstates were less crowded with traffic. Never could average 200 miles an hour.
Got any tips on how?
5
Cubs win! Cubs win!
5
And I who used to think it was idiotic to combine the words instant and classic.
114
My father used to take me and my brother to Cubs games as kids. This year, my cousin had 4 tickets to game 5 at Wrigley Field. I flew in from San Diego, and my brother flew in from St. Louis. We attended game 5 with my father (who is now 84 and healthy) and my cousin. We saw the Cubs win the only game they won at home in the series. My dad stated it was the best game he has ever seen. This is a priceless memory.
381
amazing story.. sounds so fun
3
You've warmed my heart. My parents were watching from above.
4
Fantastic
2
A lot of candles lit beside photographs of departed and much loved Cubs fans tonight. All on All Souls Day, Samhain, Day of the Dead depending on your background. A lot of joy out there, some of it quiet.
175
I'm thrilled for the Cubs. And for our nation. It's important to remember that none of the 2016 Cub players of color would have been allowed to play on that lily-white 1908 team. We've come a long way -- and we've got a long way to go.
397
Of the many "It's been so long since the Cubs won that..." statements, I think the most remarkable is that Dexter Fowler, in 2016, is the first African-American to bat in the World Series as a member of the Cubs.
37
@Harry, what was racist in either comment? I picked up on quite the opposite - an observation that the makeup of today's victors is so different from the champions of 108 years ago, and how remarkable that is. We've come so far - though we still have a distance to travel.
5
Oh jeez. Listen: I'm frickin liberal through and through. But not the time, fella.
What amazes me, an East Coast Yankees fan, is how big this country is. I thought that Cleveland was right down the road from Chicago, not a five and a half hour drive. Yeeks! We really know nothing about the "flyover states". I confess my ignorance and beg for forgiveness.
I've always thought that the Cubs were sort of a mid-western Mets.
We are newbies. Cograts Cubbies, you surely earned it.
I've always thought that the Cubs were sort of a mid-western Mets.
We are newbies. Cograts Cubbies, you surely earned it.
100
I'm a native coastal girl but the best way to rid yourself of flyover mentality is to get in the car and start driving! It's the most American of experiences. It may be a lifelong journey to see every part of this great land but it is so worth it. I've been doing it since childhood. The only state I've yet to see is Alaska but one day I'll get there, by car. And don't forget to visit a baseball park or two along the way.
The one time I got to historic Wrigley field was one of my best baseball experiences and the height of Americana. And the hot dogs! Nothing like a Cubs dog, simply a mouthful of delight.
My dad, who blessed me with his genes for wanderlust, was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago around the corner from where the Obamas lived. That side of town and his family were White Sox fans but I know those dearly departed souls would be thrilled tonight as am I for the Cubs.
I'm so happy for you, Chicago. Congratulations!
The one time I got to historic Wrigley field was one of my best baseball experiences and the height of Americana. And the hot dogs! Nothing like a Cubs dog, simply a mouthful of delight.
My dad, who blessed me with his genes for wanderlust, was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago around the corner from where the Obamas lived. That side of town and his family were White Sox fans but I know those dearly departed souls would be thrilled tonight as am I for the Cubs.
I'm so happy for you, Chicago. Congratulations!
26
Midwestern Mets? Give me a break. It's not all about you, NY.
4
5½ hours? Heh.
We have traffic in the Midwest, too.
We have traffic in the Midwest, too.
Watching Bryant's reaction after he threw to first for the final out brought me to tears. What an incredible World Series! Congrats Cubs!
127
My sports fandom started by watching my Indians blow a 3-1 lead to the Red Sox for a chance to sweep the Rockies in the World Series.
It might just end with this.
It might just end with this.
22
Chin up. The Indians played amazingly tonight. I was rooting for the Cubs and *I* was proud of your team. You have nothing to be ashamed of!
17
You don't deserve it then.
What curse?
56
My mother-in-law was a lifelong Cubs fan. She died in 1998. Her one request for her funeral was that " Take Me Out to the Ballgame" be played at her funeral. And so it was as her casket was wheeled out the church. LuAnn, I know you are loving this from wherever heaven is.
240
Kudos to both the Cubs and the Indians. Extraordinary baseball.
I am over the moon that the Cubs have triumphed and dispatched the curse. As a Boston Red Sox fan, how could I feel otherwise? I suffered through this series with Cubs fans, knowing how much was at stake.
Special congratulations to Theo Epstein. Doing this for Boston was epic. Repeating this feat for Chicago was superhuman.
I am over the moon that the Cubs have triumphed and dispatched the curse. As a Boston Red Sox fan, how could I feel otherwise? I suffered through this series with Cubs fans, knowing how much was at stake.
Special congratulations to Theo Epstein. Doing this for Boston was epic. Repeating this feat for Chicago was superhuman.
285
I too am a Red Sox fan and couldn't be happier for the Cubs and their fans across the world. What an unbelievable World Series capped off with one of the greatest baseball games I've ever witnessed. Theo Epstein, along with the entire 2016 Cubs organization will go down as legends.
167
As a life long Indians fan since 1957, it was a crushing defeat. It would have been wonderful to pull off the Series upset. Cubs no doubt have a stronger younger team as evidenced by regular season record. I don't even know how the Tribe managed to get a 3-1 lead in the Series. Cubs will be back over the next few seasons. Not so sure about the Indians...our shots are few and far between. Francona was on fire until the last couple games. So glad the boys battled back in the 8th. Alas.
6
Kyle Schwarber blows out his knee in April. Season ending right? No. He rehabs and rehabs and gets back just in time , and gets the lead off hit in the tenth inning of game seven.
Both Jon Lester and Anthony Rizzo came back from battling cancer and both fought it and beat it and important parts of a The first Cub team to win the World Series in 108 years
Kris Bryant smiles through the final out like a man who is thinking " I was born to do this very thing I am doing right now." And it becomes the perfect symbol of long delayed exhilaration and present day exuberance
The final out of the most epic World Series is pitched not by a multi million dollar all star but by Mike Montgomery a guy you never heard of who was traded for in mid-season for a bunch of other guys you never heard of.
With all the big name pitchers used up, the guys who make millions done, it came down to rookie Carl Edwards a rookie who had been drafted in the 48 round by Texas in 2011, a rookie making bare minimum, A mop up man at best with a 3.75 era out of the bullpen , who had pitched a total of 36 major league innings in his life ,a player who had only pitched in one previous inning in the World Series, this is the pitcher that was called on to start the bottom of the tenth with a 2 run lead and 108 years of curse on the line.
Who writes this stuff?