Time reveals perspective. A decade has passed since the Chicago Cubs ended a 108-year wait for a World Series title with their Game 7 victory on November 2, 2016, in Cleveland. Only seven players from that team remained active in the majors this season. Jon Lester, a key player, may soon become a Hall of Famer, eligible for election in January.
Lester fondly recalled his oldest son being six years old during the Cubs’ win in 2016. This summer, the team reunited for a 10-year celebration at Wrigley Field, where many of their children saw each other for the first time in years. “They picked up right where they left off,” Lester remarked, describing the camaraderie that resurfaced during their walk around Wrigley.
In mid-July, the 2016 team gathered for the unveiling of the champions gate at the Clark Street entrance of Gallagher Way. The archway, bearing plaques for the Cubs’ championship teams from 1907, 1908, and 2016, leaves room for future additions. “It was always in the back of our minds,” Lester noted about the pressure felt. Yet, they embraced the challenge and succeeded.
Reflecting on the victory, Lester admitted he still finds it hard to grasp their achievement. On November 4, 2016, he held the World Series trophy as the Cubs celebrated with a rally in Grant Park. More than 20 players and coaches reunited, revisiting the experience that defined their careers.
Theo Epstein, then president of baseball operations, appreciated the 10-year reflection period. His initial hiring aimed to build a World Series-winning team. Over the past decade, Epstein acknowledged imperfect decisions but cherished the unique challenges of achieving ultimate success. He resigned in 2020, feeling liberated after achieving his goal with the Cubs.
Epstein emphasized the difference between assembling talent and forging a team that thrives under pressure. “Everyone was in it together,” Epstein stated. The group showed fearlessness, seizing the opportunity to win for one another.
Winning in Chicago altered lives. David Ross commented that success opened doors, from media opportunities to managing the Cubs. Now retired as a player, Ross co-hosts a baseball podcast with Anthony Rizzo. Reflecting on their victory, Rizzo noted the profound impact on their careers and lives. Winning in Chicago, he said, elevated their status and camaraderie.
Team chemistry was crucial. Ben Zobrist, drawing on his World Series win with the Royals, praised the mix of veterans and newcomers striving for success. The Cubs, confident from spring training, expected to face every team’s best, prepared for the challenge.
The rotation set the pace, with five starters accounting for much of the pitching and performing exceptionally. Led by Lester, Kyle Hendricks, and Jake Arrieta, they maintained dominance as a unit. The Cubs and the Toronto Blue Jays were among the last teams with five pitchers making at least 29 starts in a regular season.
“It was pitching, defense, and timely hitting,” Arrieta remarked, crediting their collective efforts. “We were all that guy,” he stressed, highlighting the unity essential for their 2016 triumph.
Fast forward ten years, and the Cubs have work to do. Despite the 2016 team’s historic feat, they managed only one postseason series win since. The Milwaukee Brewers, with a stronghold on the division, present ongoing challenges. Though Cubs’ management built a powerful defense and offense, pitching gaps hindered progress, prompting questions about future pitching development.
Epstein expressed confidence in the team’s journey under Jed Hoyer’s leadership. Acknowledging the Cubs’ special status, Epstein believes in their potential to secure more championships, maintaining a legacy of success.
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