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Chicago Cubs fans should not consider Epstein-era a failure
The Cubs began their march toward erasing one of the longest championship droughts in professional sports history on October 12, 2011.
Before the 2016 campaign, Chicago Cubs fans continued to remain strong and hopeful despite being on the wrong side of history. A history that involved superstitions and or curses that are still talked about to this day.
On October 27, 2004, the Boston Red Sox lifted a curse of their own by defeating the St. Louis Cardinals to win their first World Series in 86 years. Witnessing one of the game’s most notable curses being lifted provided fans with a gut-punch of hope.
The Cubs, a year before, were one game away from reaching the World Series. In the blink of an eye, the Miami (formerly Florida) Marlins were celebrating on our home turf.
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Events from that evening have been replayed by major sports media outlets, reminding us that, “Hey, don’t you forget that this happened.” How could we when it is being shoved in our faces all the time?
Finally, relief at last. When the Cubs inked Theo Epstein to a five-year deal, all eyes and attention turned to this organization. If Epstein could bring the Red Sox to two World Series titles, what will he do with the Cubs?
It started a bit rocky, but this team managed to reel in some outstanding draft picks in the process. Draft picks who would play a part in the Cubs winning a World Series five years after Epstein signed.
A Wild Card berth, multiple division titles, back-to-back trips to the LCS, and a World Series championship all in a span of five years? These accomplishments should not be considered or tabbed a failure.
Challenges will present themselves to teams no matter who is in charge of the talent they possess. You cannot control how things unfold as it will never go according to plan. What people need to realize is Epstein delivered. Over 100 plus years of wishing and what-ifs are now happy memories.
Next. Cohen could be a big spender. dark
Four years ago, the official championship journey began. While it wasn’t as smooth as we had hoped, since when has anything come easy for Cubs fans? It was a thrilling ride that sure stressed us out but will always be remembered.
If this is indeed the end of the Theo Epstein-era, here is to hoping he has a meeting with whoever is next in line to take over. Let us be thankful either way. We no longer have to live with being haunted by black cats or foul balls.