Chicago Cubs: The unsung hero of the Cubs' postseason success

Throughout the postseason, the Chicago Cubs’ clutch hitting and defense propelled the team forward. On a team with great talent, it is easy to miss the everyday deeds.

The stars shine brightly on the largest stage, the many players on the Chicago Cubs roster have performed out of this world. From the resurgence of Anthony Rizzo in the NLCS to the revival of Kyle Schwarber from the disabled list grave, the team as proven that it is capable of anything. Jon Lester is living up to expectations, and Javier Baez plays with unmatched energy. The team is loaded with star power.

However, even with all these stars, there is a player in the center of everything, yet none seem to discuss. All year long, his quiet production and veteran knowledge pushed the Cubs to this point. While he may not be the most interesting man in the world, his signing with the club is significant. Additionally, when he is not in the game, he is cheering on the team from the dugout. His name?

Ben Zobrist

All along the way, Ben Zobrist is in the middle of everything. Remember Game 4 of the NLCS? After Los Angeles Dodger pitching held the Cubs offense scoreless for 21 consecutive innings, Zobrist did the unthinkable as a clean-up hitter. He bunted. And his aggressive running to home plate, after two singles by Baez and Willson Contreras, forced an error by the Dodgers’ defense. All this leading to a four-run fourth inning. It was this play the ignited the Cubs’ offense in scoring 23 runs in three games.

Then in Game 2 of the World Series, with two outs in the third, Zobrist singled moving Rizzo to second base. Schwarber then singled home, Rizzo. If Zobrist doesn’t get Rizzo to second, the Cubs do not increase their lead. In the fifth, Zobrist lined a triple to right field, knocking Rizzo in. The Cubs lead 3-0.

But there is more than just these moments. Let us not forget that he was an All-Star at second base this year. If Zobrist does not willing move to left field, Baez does not play at second base. Maybe Adrian Gonzalez scores at home instead of Zobrist throwing him out from left.

Next: Top home run hitters in Cubs history

This quiet man, with 47 postseason games under his belt, is the point guard of the Chicago Cubs. He may be from a small Illinois town named Eureka – a placed known for President Ronald Reagan attending college there – and played at small colleges, however, Zobrist is a crucial part of the Cubs’ puzzle. Married to a Christian music performer, Julianna, and a father of three kids, Zobrist’s character and play are something to behold.

He may have grown up a Cardinals fan, but he has made a home with the Chicago Cubs.

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Chicago Cubs: The unsung hero of the Cubs’ postseason success

By Corey Francis | Oct 28, 2016

Throughout the postseason, the Chicago Cubs’ clutch hitting and defense propelled the team forward. On a team with great talent, it is easy to miss the everyday deeds.

Ben Zobrist