Ranking the top five Chicago Cubs leadoff hitters in history

Chicago Cubs: Dexter Fowler

This Cubs leadoff hitter was one of the most critical pieces on the way to ending the Cubs 108 year World Series drought. Along the way, he became the only player in major league history to lead off Game 7 of the World Series with a home run. You guessed it, the second greatest leadoff hitter in the history of the Cubs is non-other than Dexter Fowler.

In 2016, Fowler was the catalyst for getting the Cubs offense going. He set the table every game for what was a dangerous Cubs offense that year. He posted a .393 on-base percentage and a .277 batting average. He brought a different dynamic to the leadoff spot with some power, as he hit 13 home runs that year. That was something the Cubs hadn’t seen since Alfonso Soriano hit leadoff for them back in 2007 and 2008. Fowler was also a very patient hitter at the plate and wore down a lot of pitchers. He had no problem taking a walk, (79) but also struck out 124 times, more than you’d like from your leadoff hitter.

While Fowler’s 2016 season surely isn’t one of the best statistical seasons, it’s definitely one of the most important. If Fowler doesn’t come back to the Cubs, I’m not so sure they win the World Series without him. He completely solidified the leadoff spot for that team, and that is undeniable at this point. Since Fowler left after winning the World Series, the Cubs have yet to find someone to replace him at the top of the order, and the offense has not been the same.

Fowler’s stay in Chicago was short and sweet. He was only here for two years but because of what he helped the Cubs accomplish he will never be forgotten, and the fans will always thank him for helping bring a World Series trophy back to Chicago. For me, I’ll always remember him rounding first base backward as he stared into the Cubs dugout following his Game 7 leadoff home run in the World Series.