Chicago Cubs: Jon Lester’s leadership is built on success and hardships

A winner from the start

We’ve established the dominance of Jon Lester as a high school athlete. Lester has added to that background by putting together a very good career to this point.

Since debuting for Boston, Lester has compiled a 146-84 record while posting a 3.44 ERA. During the final season in the minors, Lester posted an ERA of 2.61. It was becoming clear that he was a star in this league.

When Jon Lester’s career comes to an end he will have a strong case for the Hall of Fame. Prior to his time with the Cubs, Lester was a three-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion, and threw a no-hitter in 2008.

Furthermore, Lester will have the distinction of having won a championship as a member of the Red Sox and Cubs.

Perhaps the most symbolic moment for me came in 2015. Lester was on the mound on Opening night against the Cardinals. The Cubs lost that game 3-0, but something felt different. The feeling in the air wasn’t heavy like in year’s past. Although they lost that game, the Cubs renaissance was officially underway.

In eight seasons in Boston, Lester won 100 games for the Red Sox. In 2007 it was the tough lefty that took the mound in game four of the World Series. Behind Lester’s strong start, the Red Sox swept the Rockies on their way to their second title in four years.