Cubs 5 forgotten moments from Game 7 of 2016 World Series

Chicago Cubs: Montero provides insurance

Miguel Montero had been the starting catcher for nearly all of 2015 and the first few months of the 2016 season. By November, he was nothing more than a bench player.

That is not to say “Miggy” did not have his moments. His grand slam to win Game 1 of the NLCS will always be one of the most memorable moments in Wrigley Field’s history.

Still, Montero had limited opportunities during the playoffs, and especially in the World Series. He had all of three pinch-hit appearances heading into Game 7, two of which resulted in strikeouts. But after Zobrist’s go-ahead double in the top of the 10th and an intentional walk to Addison Russell to load the bases, Montero had a chance to add to the lead.

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Typically, a “cold” player is not ideal in these situations. Of course, Maddon had limited options remaining on his bench, and the left-handed Montero was a split matchup against Indians righty Bryan Shaw.

In any case, Montero displayed some excellent hitting, going inside-out on a 1-1 cutter running in on him and spraying it into left field for a base hit and another run.

Perhaps some fans acknowledge this moment more than others. After all, Montero’s RBI proved vital when the Indians scored in the bottom of the frame.

However, it is the context surrounding Montero’s at-bat that makes it that much more impressive.