![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws in the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws in the fifth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) flies over Chicago Cubs...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) flies over Chicago Cubs pinch hitter Chris Coghlan (8) after the forced out at second in the ninth inning during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) is out at...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) is out at second base trying to stretch a third-inning single into a double as he's tagged by Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Fans watch inside Sluggers World Class Sports Bar in Chicago...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Fans watch inside Sluggers World Class Sports Bar in Chicago while the Chicago Cubs play the Cleveland Indians during the second inning of Game 7 in the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Fans visit Harry Caray's gravesite Nov. 3, 2016, at All Saints...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Fans visit Harry Caray's gravesite Nov. 3, 2016, at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines after the Cubs' World Series-clinching victory. Beer cans, flowers, green apples, pennants, a hot dog and many other mementos have appeared since the championship.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) commits a first-inning...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) commits a first-inning error on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona (17) pulls starting pitcher Corey...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona (17) pulls starting pitcher Corey Kluber (28) during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) puts out Cleveland...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) puts out Cleveland Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) in the 10th inning of Game 7 on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) takes over for catcher...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) takes over for catcher Willson Contreras (40) in the fifth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) can't handle a Cleveland...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) can't handle a Cleveland Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) single in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) attempts a double...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) attempts a double play but drops the ball as Cleveland Indians catcher Roberto Perez (55) is safe in the third inning during Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. (6), right, waves...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. (6), right, waves the W flag with shortstop Addison Russell (27) after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) reacts to striking out...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) reacts to striking out Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) with two men on base in the seventh inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Musician Billy Corgan, second from left, talks with sports reporters...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Musician Billy Corgan, second from left, talks with sports reporters before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![The Commissioner's Trophy is walked past the dugout before Game 7...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
The Commissioner's Trophy is walked past the dugout before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) advances to third...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) advances to third after an overthrown ball in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) and teammates warm...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) and teammates warm up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs catcher Willson Contreras (40) doubles in the fourth...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher Willson Contreras (40) doubles in the fourth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) misses the hit by...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) misses the hit by Cleveland Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez (11) in the second inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) speaks with third baseman...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) speaks with third baseman Kris Bryant (17), left, and first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) before leaving the game in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. (5) rounds third...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. (5) rounds third base to score in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) chats with the umpires...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) chats with the umpires after the tarp was removed following a rain delay at Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2013.
![Cubs fans try to catch a glimpse of the players...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans try to catch a glimpse of the players as they arrive Nov. 3, 2016, on the Waveland Avenue side of Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) is given the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) is given the MVP trophy after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) hits an RBI...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) hits an RBI double in the fifth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9), facing, after the...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9), facing, after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Cubs fans flocked to Wrigley Field on Nov. 3, 2016,...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans flocked to Wrigley Field on Nov. 3, 2016, to celebrate the World Series win and write on the brick walls with chalk.
![Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) leaves the dugout...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) leaves the dugout on Nov. 2, 2016 before Game 7 of the World Series.
![A Cubs fan holds a sign that says "Beat Cleveland"...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
A Cubs fan holds a sign that says "Beat Cleveland" before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs Dexter Fowler (24) hits a solo home run...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs Dexter Fowler (24) hits a solo home run in the first inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Jim Scheinberg models a World Series championship T-shirt on Nov. 3,...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Jim Scheinberg models a World Series championship T-shirt on Nov. 3, 2016, at Sports World near Wrigley Field.
![Cubs outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber gives a thumbs-up as he...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber gives a thumbs-up as he walks with Anthony Rizzo, who carries the Commissioner's Trophy, as the team arrives from Cleveland on Nov. 3, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) celebrates his lead-off...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) celebrates his lead-off home run with third baseman Kris Bryant (17) on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9), from left, Cubs...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9), from left, Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) and Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) during pregame warmups on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) makes the last...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) makes the last out in the bottom of the 10th inning to win Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) is carried by first...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) is carried by first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) and right fielder Jason Heyward (22) after the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 to win the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) hits an RBI...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) hits an RBI double in the 10th inning of Game 7 on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Cubs fans flock to Wrigley Field on Nov. 3, 2016,...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans flock to Wrigley Field on Nov. 3, 2016, to celebrate the World Series title, take photos with the marquee and write on the brick walls.
![Cleveland Indians left fielder Coco Crisp (4) is met by...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians left fielder Coco Crisp (4) is met by second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) after scoring in the third inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Edgar Garcia, 24, writes "No Goat" with chalk on the...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Edgar Garcia, 24, writes "No Goat" with chalk on the exterior brick wall Nov. 3, 2016, as he stands on a tall ladder on the Waveland Avenue side of Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27), second baseman Javier Baez...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27), second baseman Javier Baez (9), third baseman Kris Bryant (17) and first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) jump as the Chicago Cubs defeat the Cleveland Indians in Game 7 to win the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17), facing away, and...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17), facing away, and Chicago Cubs first base coach Brandon Hyde (16) after the Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) takes over in...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) takes over in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) hits a solo home run...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) hits a solo home run in the sixth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) celebrates his RBI single...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) celebrates his RBI single in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Cleveland Indian players run off the field as it is...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indian players run off the field as it is covered during a rain delay at the top of the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![The Chicago Cubs celebrate after beating the Cleveland Indians on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs celebrate after beating the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3 in Game 7 to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Team President Theo Epstein, center, with Chicago Cubs starting pitcher...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Team President Theo Epstein, center, with Chicago Cubs starting pitcher John Lackey (41), right, after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis (20) hits a game-tying...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis (20) hits a game-tying two-run home run in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) watches his sacrifice fly...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) watches his sacrifice fly during the fourth inning at Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Nov. 2, 2016.
![A Cubs fans holds up a sign before Game 7...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
A Cubs fans holds up a sign before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Fans have visited Harry Caray's gravesite Nov. 3, 2016, at...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Fans have visited Harry Caray's gravesite Nov. 3, 2016, at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines after the Cubs' World Series victory. Beer cans, flowers, green apples, pennants, a hot dog and many other mementos have appeared since the Game 7 win.
![Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) is safe at first...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) is safe at first base as first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) can't make the catch in the first inning on Nov. 2, 2016 in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Cleveland Indians fans console each other in the bottom of...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians fans console each other in the bottom of the seventh inning of Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Cubs fans celebrate the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans celebrate the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series against the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) celebrates his lead...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) celebrates his lead off home run Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016 during Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland. (Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune) Chicago Cubs Cleveland Indians
![Louis Hobson takes a selfie with his family, wife Leah and...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Louis Hobson takes a selfie with his family, wife Leah and daughters Isabelle, 4, and Grace, 10 months, on Nov. 3, 2016, outside of Wrigley Field.
![Cleveland Indians player Jason Kipnis (22) dives safely into home...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians player Jason Kipnis (22) dives safely into home as Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) tries to tag him out in the fifth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) high-fives a coach...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) high-fives a coach after Zobrist hit an RBI double in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Evan Rothstein, of Wilmette, celebrates Cubs catcher David Ross' home...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Evan Rothstein, of Wilmette, celebrates Cubs catcher David Ross' home run at a Chicago bar during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Mark Monaco, of Wheaton, eats lunch while waiting to enter...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Mark Monaco, of Wheaton, eats lunch while waiting to enter Progressive Field for Game 7.
![Chicago Cubs cheer on starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) in...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs cheer on starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) in the fourth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) greets second baseman...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) greets second baseman Javier Baez (9) after his solo home run in the fifth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) scores in the...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) scores in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Cubs players stream onto the field to celebrate their Game...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cubs players stream onto the field to celebrate their Game 7 win Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![The Chicago Cubs celebrate winning the World Series against the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs celebrate winning the World Series against the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![The Chicago Cubs celebrate winning the World Series at the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs celebrate winning the World Series at the end of Game 7 on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Cubs and Indians fans react to a two-run home run...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs and Indians fans react to a two-run home run by Cleveland Indian's Rajai Davis (20) in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Installer Brian Terry of Bannerville USA puts up Cubs 2016...]()
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Installer Brian Terry of Bannerville USA puts up Cubs 2016 World Series Champions banners as preparations for the parade and rally are rolled out Nov. 3, 2016, along south Columbus Drive toward Grant Park.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) rounds the bases...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) rounds the bases after his solo home run in the fifth inning on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Fans cover themselves as rain falls in the ninth inning...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Fans cover themselves as rain falls in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) bumps shortstop Addison Russell...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (3) bumps shortstop Addison Russell (27) after hitting a home run in the sixth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Cubs fan Noah Borden adjusts his sunglasses while waiting to...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fan Noah Borden adjusts his sunglasses while waiting to enter Progressive Field.
![Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) and second baseman Javier...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) and second baseman Javier Baez (9) in the dugout on Nov. 2, 2016 before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo hoists the Commissioner's Trophy as...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo hoists the Commissioner's Trophy as the team arrives early Nov. 3, 2016, to Wrigley Field. The Cubs won the World Series the previous night in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) celebrates with teammates...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) celebrates with teammates after hitting a home run in the fifth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Henry Zabala from Skokie celebrates a pick-off during Game 7...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Henry Zabala from Skokie celebrates a pick-off during Game 7 of the World Series at Murphy's Bleachers in Chicago on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago native Kyle Petit, currently living in Ho Chi Minh...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago native Kyle Petit, currently living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, waits for the gates to open at Progressive Field.
![The Chicago Cubs celebrate their Game 7 World Series win...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs celebrate their Game 7 World Series win over the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) warms up on...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) warms up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Indians players play Hacky Sack as broadcasters prepare for Game...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Indians players play Hacky Sack as broadcasters prepare for Game 7.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) meets with catcher...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) meets with catcher Willson Contreras (40) in the third inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![The Chicago Cubs bats are placed in the dugout on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs bats are placed in the dugout on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Paul Kim grabs a sign he made while waiting in...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Paul Kim grabs a sign he made while waiting in line to purchase day-of-game tickets for Game 7 at Progressive Field.
![Cubs fans write messages with chalk Nov. 3, 2016, on...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans write messages with chalk Nov. 3, 2016, on the Waveland Avenue exterior wall of Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jake Arrieta and first baseman Anthony...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jake Arrieta and first baseman Anthony Rizzo celebrate after winning Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers in the...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers in the first inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) reacts after his...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) reacts after his solo home run in the first inning on Nov. 2, 2016 in Game 7 of the World Series.
![The Chicago Cubs celebrate after defeating the Cleveland Indians on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs celebrate after defeating the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Teammates congratulate Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) after...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Teammates congratulate Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) after he hit a solo home run in the first inning of Game 7 of the World Series between the Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Employees at Excel Screen Printing and Embroidery Inc. in Schiller...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Employees at Excel Screen Printing and Embroidery Inc. in Schiller Park work to print and ship tens of thousands of Chicago Cubs World Series T-shirts on on Nov. 3, 2016, following the Cubs' World Series championship the previous night.
![A baseball that reads "2016 It finally happened! Cubs win"...]()
Anthony Souffle / Chicago Tribune
A baseball that reads "2016 It finally happened! Cubs win" was placed with other memorabilia at the Graceland Cemetery gravesite of Cubs Hall of Fame player Ernie Banks on Nov. 3, 2016, the day after the Cubs won the World Series.
![Cubs fan John Reynolds stands on the ledge of a...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fan John Reynolds stands on the ledge of a ticket window Nov. 3, 2016, to write his father's name with chalk on the exterior brick wall on the Waveland Avenue side of Wrigley Field.
![Cubs manager Joe Maddon celebrates with his wife, Jaye, after...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Joe Maddon celebrates with his wife, Jaye, after the Game 7 win.
![Cubs relief pitcher Justin Grimm celebrates the World Series win...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs relief pitcher Justin Grimm celebrates the World Series win at Progressive Field.
![Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) tags out Chicago...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) tags out Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) on a steal attempt to end the Cubs' half of the seventh inning during Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Nov. 2, 2016. Second base umpire John Hirschbeck (17) makes the call.
![Chicago Cubs players react after Cubs catcher David Ross (3)...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs players react after Cubs catcher David Ross (3) hit a solo home run in the sixth inning on Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) hugs his friend...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) hugs his friend after the Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, to win the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) after allowing a...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) after allowing a run in the third inning of Game 7 on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Cubs manager Joe Maddon sits in one of the team...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Joe Maddon sits in one of the team buses as it arrives early Nov. 3, 2016, outside of Wrigley Field on Waveland Avenue in Chicago.
![Fans flock near the main marquee Nov. 3, 2016, at Wrigley Field.]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Fans flock near the main marquee Nov. 3, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs fans watch their team warm up on Nov....]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs fans watch their team warm up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) celebrates his fifth...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) celebrates his fifth inning RBI double as Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) walks away on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) breaks his bat...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) breaks his bat and pops out to shortstop in the second inning during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Towels, flowers and notes from fans adorn the Graceland Cemetery...]()
Anthony Souffle / Chicago Tribune
Towels, flowers and notes from fans adorn the Graceland Cemetery gravesite of Cubs great Ernie Banks on Nov. 3, 2016, the day after the Cubs won the World Series. Banks died last year.
![Team President Theo Epstein and the front office staff pose...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Team President Theo Epstein and the front office staff pose for a photo after the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) is tagged out...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) is tagged out by Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) in the seventh inning on Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) on his way...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) on his way to scoring after a base hit by first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) in the fifth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) rounds the bases...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) rounds the bases after his solo home run in the first inning on Nov. 2, 2016 in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs players celebrate after winning the World Series on Nov....]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs players celebrate after winning the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Mayor Rahm Emanuel hugs Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Carl Edwards...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Mayor Rahm Emanuel hugs Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. (6) after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) hits a fifth-inning...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) hits a fifth-inning home run in Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs stand for the National Anthem on Nov. 2,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs stand for the National Anthem on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) cheers as the...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) cheers as the Chicago Cubs defeat the Cleveland Indians in Game 7 to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) warms up on Nov....]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) warms up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs catcher Willson Contreras (40) after an RBI double...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher Willson Contreras (40) after an RBI double in the fourth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) attempts a double...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) attempts a double play but drops the ball as Cleveland Indians catcher Roberto Perez (55) is safe in the third inning on Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) and starting pitcher...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) and starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) celebrate after the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 to win the World Series.
![Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) tags Chicago Cubs left...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) tags Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) out in the third inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Chris Coghlan (8) slides and breaks...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Chris Coghlan (8) slides and breaks up a double play as Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) holds the throw in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Cubs team President Theo Epstein celebrates the World Series win...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs team President Theo Epstein celebrates the World Series win at Progressive Field.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws out the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws out the first pitch in the first inning of Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo throws up his arms after...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo throws up his arms after the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs fans celebrate in the fifth inning of Game...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs fans celebrate in the fifth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) steals second base...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) steals second base in the first inning Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) turns a double...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) turns a double play after forcing out Cleveland Indians right fielder Lonnie Chisenhall (8), ending the second inning on Nov. 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) celebrates his RBI...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist (18) celebrates his RBI double in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Chris Coghlan (8) breaks up a...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Chris Coghlan (8) breaks up a double play attempt by Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) scores a solo home...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) scores a solo home run in the fifth inning on Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series.
![The Chicago Cubs batting helmets are placed in the dugout...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs batting helmets are placed in the dugout on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. celebrates the Cubs' World Series...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. celebrates the Cubs' World Series win with the W flag on Nov. 3, 2016.
![The Chicago Cubs warm up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Chicago Cubs warm up on Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series.
![Cleveland Indians designated hitter Carlos Santana (41) with an RBI...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians designated hitter Carlos Santana (41) with an RBI single in the third inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Fans take pictures of the ballpark before Game 7 of...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Fans take pictures of the ballpark before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Chicago Cubs pitching coach Chris Bosio (25) visits starting pitcher...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs pitching coach Chris Bosio (25) visits starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) on the mound in the third inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers in the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers in the first inning on Nov. 2, 2016 in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) watches the two-run...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) watches the two-run home run hit by Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis (20) in the eighth inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) celebrates after the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) celebrates after the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians on Nov. 3, 2016, to win the World Series.
![Chicago Cubs pinch runner Albert Almora Jr. (5) advances to...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs pinch runner Albert Almora Jr. (5) advances to second on a fly-out by Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) in the 10th inning during Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2013.
![Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) hits an RBI single in...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) hits an RBI single in the 10th inning of Game 7 on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) forces out Cleveland...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez (9) forces out Cleveland Indians right fielder Lonnie Chisenhall (8) as he turns a double play to end the second inning on Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series.
![Cubs fan and UFC fighter Clay Guida shows off his...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fan and UFC fighter Clay Guida shows off his tickets for Game 7 at Progressive Field.
![Cubs pitcher Jake Arrieta and his family walk to the mound...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs pitcher Jake Arrieta and his family walk to the mound for a photo in the rain after Game 7 at Progressive Field.
![Fans watch batting practice before Game 7 of the World...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Fans watch batting practice before Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians on Nov. 2, 2016, at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
![Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis (20) with a two-run...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis (20) with a two-run home run to tie Game 7 in the eighth inning on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) helps Chicago Cubs first...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) helps Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) up after being forced out at second base in the fourth inning of Game 7 on Nov. 2, 2016.
It says something great about the Cubs’ future that a rookie could do something so big in the present.
And not just any present, mind you. Try the 10th inning of a 6-6, winner-take-all Game 7 between the franchises that had gone the longest without winning the World Series.
Oh, and don’t forget how exponentially doomed everything felt after the Cubs blew a three-run lead when they were two innings from ending 108 years of futility.
Into that situation stepped Albert Almora Jr. Into that situation, Almora pulled off arguably the savviest baserunning play of the season.
Almora’s moment was set up when the miracle that has become Kyle Schwarber led off with a single. But given Schwarber’s surgically repaired knee, the Cubs sent Almora to pinch-run and represent the run that generations of Cubs fans never saw, a moment that might leave a player of lesser character and baseball IQ begging for oxygen.
Kris Bryant then lifted a shot to right-center, and wouldn’t that have been sweet, the future MVP finishing his star turn of a season with a Series-winning homer. But no. The ball stayed in the park, allowing Rajai Davis to make the catch on the warning track.
Most runners probably would’ve gone halfway to second and waited, hoping to score if the ball bounced off the wall. But Almora read the arc perfectly, and with Davis’ route taking him away from his throwing arm, Almora appeared to make a gutsy, split-second decision to go back to the bag and tag up.
It might be that Almora suspected he had the element of surprise working for him, but at worst, he knew he could run on Davis’ arm. A bit of both helped in that moment. Davis casually turned to get the ball back in, and his bad arm and accuracy allowed Almora to win his gamble easily.
Just like that, the kid put the potential Series-winning run in scoring position.
And score he did. After the Indians intentionally walked Anthony Rizzo, Ben Zobrist fought off a backdoor breaking pitch to produce a double down the left-field line that drove in Almora and sent Rizzo to third.
Almora’s run put the Cubs ahead 7-6 but did not turn out to be the winner. The Indians would score in the bottom of the 10th, so Rizzo’s run on Miguel Montero’s single was the difference.
But Almora’s impactful play stands out for its aggressiveness, nerve, execution and baseball IQ, a valuable collection of characteristics that brings the Cubs full circle in a way.
Almora, remember, was the first draft choice of the Theo Epstein era — the first young talent to represent the “Cubs Way” that would be vertically integrated into a system that never understood the phrase “vertically integrate.”
If you go back to that draft in June 2012 and reread the scouting report offered by Jason McLeod, vice president of scouting and player development, then you find many of the reasons Almora was drafted materialized in that play.
“If you look at the total package of Albert, he has the ability to no doubt play in the major leagues, but it’s also the makeup and work ethic, how he carries himself and the leadership he’s shown,” McLeod said. “It’s what we’re looking to do here with the Cubs — to bring in somebody that will be an impact player and to impact those around him.”
Even though he wasn’t the first Epstein draft pick to make the majors, Almora seized one of the biggest moments of the biggest game of the year — check that, he created one of the biggest moments — with skill and smarts. That’s the new Cubs Way. Skill and smarts, and winning the World Series.
