Chicago Cubs: The real story of Michael Jordan

Chicago Cubs: When the Cubs had a chance to clinch a postseason spot, Michael Jordan was there.

The 1998 Cubs had tied the San Francisco Giants for the N.L. Wild Card spot (remember only one in each league then) after 162 games. That last playoff spot would need to be determined by a 163rd game at Wrigley Field between the two teams on the evening of September 28. Who would throw out the ceremonial first pitch? None other than Michael Jordan.

Donned in a blue Cubs jacket and baseball cap, Jordan strolled to the mound as 39,556 spectators stood and cheered with flashbulbs going off everywhere. Sosa would be his battery mate behind the plate. When Jordan got the mound, he took off his jacket to reveal his Sosa #21 jersey underneath.

Jordan’s first pitch sailed over a leaping Sosa and hit the brick backstop. The two superstars laughed as the crowd gave another loud cheer. Kind of summed up Jordan’s baseball career right there. A quick hug was exchanged between them and they returned to the Cubs dugout.

Some liked to say having Jordan throw out the first pitch was good karma as the Cubs went on to win 5-3 and clinch a spot in October.