WELCOME TO CUBS WORLD CHATTER for October, 2022!
BY Wayne Richards
Welcome to October. For Cub fans, Autumn is a bit disconcerting to say the least...especially when we're not even in the running!
There’s no doubt about it. This has been a difficult season for the Chicago Cubs. There has been drama almost every WICK.
But difficulties ASSAD, the common WISDOM is that the bright REYES of success will once again cast beautiful HUGHES at Wrigley.
Keep in mind this is a YOUNG team and have yet to acquire WISDOM. Ross is the manager of course but will Mark become the new LEITER?
Let’s watch carefully what happens during this very important off season. With hard work and intelligent planning, we will once again see SMYLY faces at the friendly confines !
BY Wayne Richards
Welcome to October. For Cub fans, Autumn is a bit disconcerting to say the least...especially when we're not even in the running!
There’s no doubt about it. This has been a difficult season for the Chicago Cubs. There has been drama almost every WICK.
But difficulties ASSAD, the common WISDOM is that the bright REYES of success will once again cast beautiful HUGHES at Wrigley.
Keep in mind this is a YOUNG team and have yet to acquire WISDOM. Ross is the manager of course but will Mark become the new LEITER?
Let’s watch carefully what happens during this very important off season. With hard work and intelligent planning, we will once again see SMYLY faces at the friendly confines !
November 7th membership meeting
featuring.....Jack Herbon- (guest speaker)
Original founder of the Bleacher Bums! These are stories you don't want to miss!
(Stay tuned for announcements about future events! Also, if you have suggestions for future meetings, please let us know We'd love to hear from you!)
featuring.....Jack Herbon- (guest speaker)
Original founder of the Bleacher Bums! These are stories you don't want to miss!
(Stay tuned for announcements about future events! Also, if you have suggestions for future meetings, please let us know We'd love to hear from you!)
RED WORD SEARCH
By now, most Cubs World members are very familiar with the process of searching for a Red word sitting somewhere within this newsletter. If you're new to the process (and welcome) heres all you do. Search for a word printed in red and write it down on a piece of paper or a card. Bring it to the October membership meeting and place it in a jar for a drawing. You just might win a valuable gift card! GOOD LUCK!
By now, most Cubs World members are very familiar with the process of searching for a Red word sitting somewhere within this newsletter. If you're new to the process (and welcome) heres all you do. Search for a word printed in red and write it down on a piece of paper or a card. Bring it to the October membership meeting and place it in a jar for a drawing. You just might win a valuable gift card! GOOD LUCK!
DO NOT MISS THE NOVEMBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING
by Dan Marx
You will not want to miss Cubs World's next meeting November 7th at Colony Cottage Recreation Center at 6:00 PM. This is probably the most exciting preview that I have written so far.
During the 1969 season , the Chicago Cubs bleacher area turned into not just another major league seating area, but into an iconic institution. Through circumstances that will be explained to us, that seating area became known as the Bleacher Bums. This phenomenon became quickly known all across the country.
What you will find out that Monday night is that the person ( s) responsible for helping to start the Bleacher Bums is our very own Jack Herbon. Jack and his father , Howard, were very much an integral part of its beginnings, and have been mentioned in several books as such.
What you will see is over 100 slides showing us the people and the craziness of the Bums. Jack will guide us through this presentation, and of course be around to answer questions afterwards.
History was born that year, and you can share in that story with Jack.
Be there or be square !
by Dan Marx
You will not want to miss Cubs World's next meeting November 7th at Colony Cottage Recreation Center at 6:00 PM. This is probably the most exciting preview that I have written so far.
During the 1969 season , the Chicago Cubs bleacher area turned into not just another major league seating area, but into an iconic institution. Through circumstances that will be explained to us, that seating area became known as the Bleacher Bums. This phenomenon became quickly known all across the country.
What you will find out that Monday night is that the person ( s) responsible for helping to start the Bleacher Bums is our very own Jack Herbon. Jack and his father , Howard, were very much an integral part of its beginnings, and have been mentioned in several books as such.
What you will see is over 100 slides showing us the people and the craziness of the Bums. Jack will guide us through this presentation, and of course be around to answer questions afterwards.
History was born that year, and you can share in that story with Jack.
Be there or be square !
Cubs World would like to recognize the new members that have joined over the past few months!
Burke, Angela = Minneapolis Mn
Burke,Terrence = Chicago IL
Carlyon, Kenneth = Belleview IL
Rosenthal, Fred = St Charles IL
Rosenthal, Karin = St. Charles, IL "
Shaheen, Judy = Elkhart In
Shaheen, Greg = Peoria IL
Watson, Pamela = Beloit Wi
We know that they will enjoy our meetings and events, and also our fellowship.
Burke, Angela = Minneapolis Mn
Burke,Terrence = Chicago IL
Carlyon, Kenneth = Belleview IL
Rosenthal, Fred = St Charles IL
Rosenthal, Karin = St. Charles, IL "
Shaheen, Judy = Elkhart In
Shaheen, Greg = Peoria IL
Watson, Pamela = Beloit Wi
We know that they will enjoy our meetings and events, and also our fellowship.
BE A CUBS WORLD CLUB LEADER!
As of now, this is the current slate of board members hoping to retain their office in the November 7th board election. These officers and directors have enclosed their bios to vie for your votes. Feel free to run for these offices yourself. As you can see there are vacancies for the next 2 year term.
This is the current slate for reelection.
Vice President- vacant
Secretary- Barb Beil
Treasurer- Sharon Adochio
At Large Director- Dan Marx
At Large Director- vacant
At Large director- vacant
The most important office is the Vice President's seat . Jim Guleserian is stepping down to take over as event chairman. Since we will now have an event chairman, that means whoever runs for the vice president's office will not have to worry about organizing events or hosting Let's Play Too. We know that was a concern of many of you.
Our president , Don Mulder, would love somebody to work hand in hand with , to keep the direction of our club a very positive and progressive one. As you all know, fresh new ideas are very important to keeping all of our members engaged.
We sincerely hope that members who are passionate about our club will throw their hat in the ring. Please feel free to attend our next board meeting, Monday , October 17th on the porch of Colony Cottage Recreation Center to get a feel for how the Board operates.
Besides the vacancy of Vice president, there are also 2 at large directorships open for this coming membership meeting.
Feel free to contact Don Mulder at 847 372 7244 for any vacancies that you wish to fill.
Here are the bios of the board members that are up for reelection.....
As of now, this is the current slate of board members hoping to retain their office in the November 7th board election. These officers and directors have enclosed their bios to vie for your votes. Feel free to run for these offices yourself. As you can see there are vacancies for the next 2 year term.
This is the current slate for reelection.
Vice President- vacant
Secretary- Barb Beil
Treasurer- Sharon Adochio
At Large Director- Dan Marx
At Large Director- vacant
At Large director- vacant
The most important office is the Vice President's seat . Jim Guleserian is stepping down to take over as event chairman. Since we will now have an event chairman, that means whoever runs for the vice president's office will not have to worry about organizing events or hosting Let's Play Too. We know that was a concern of many of you.
Our president , Don Mulder, would love somebody to work hand in hand with , to keep the direction of our club a very positive and progressive one. As you all know, fresh new ideas are very important to keeping all of our members engaged.
We sincerely hope that members who are passionate about our club will throw their hat in the ring. Please feel free to attend our next board meeting, Monday , October 17th on the porch of Colony Cottage Recreation Center to get a feel for how the Board operates.
Besides the vacancy of Vice president, there are also 2 at large directorships open for this coming membership meeting.
Feel free to contact Don Mulder at 847 372 7244 for any vacancies that you wish to fill.
Here are the bios of the board members that are up for reelection.....
BARB BEIL (Secretary)
I was born and raised in Chicago a couple of miles away from Wrigley Field. Growing up I remember my mom in front of our black & white TV ironing and watching the Cubs game. We also spent many Ladies Days at the game. My mother’s love of the game has turned both me and my sister in to life-long Cub fans.
My early career was as a Manager at Jewel Food Stores for over 20 years. My second career was with the City of Park Ridge, the majority of time as Administrative Assistant to the Finance Director.
In 1980 my late husband and I purchased a home in Park Ridge and lived there until I moved to the Villages in 2015. I have one son who is married and lives in Boise, Idaho. I am Charter Member of the club.
I was born and raised in Chicago a couple of miles away from Wrigley Field. Growing up I remember my mom in front of our black & white TV ironing and watching the Cubs game. We also spent many Ladies Days at the game. My mother’s love of the game has turned both me and my sister in to life-long Cub fans.
My early career was as a Manager at Jewel Food Stores for over 20 years. My second career was with the City of Park Ridge, the majority of time as Administrative Assistant to the Finance Director.
In 1980 my late husband and I purchased a home in Park Ridge and lived there until I moved to the Villages in 2015. I have one son who is married and lives in Boise, Idaho. I am Charter Member of the club.
SHARON ADACHIO (Treasurer)
My earliest memories of the Cubs was coming home from grade school and the game was on TV! My parents were serious Ernie Banks and Billy William fans.
Fast forward a few years when I met my late husband, Steve. I thought I knew all about Cub fans until I met him. Steve would eat, drink and sleep Cubs…..and that is when my love for the Cubs actually started.
I have had the pleasure of being your treasurer for the past few years and would like to continue. I have enjoyed our meetings as well as the camaraderie with fellow Cub fans.
Go Cubs!!!
My earliest memories of the Cubs was coming home from grade school and the game was on TV! My parents were serious Ernie Banks and Billy William fans.
Fast forward a few years when I met my late husband, Steve. I thought I knew all about Cub fans until I met him. Steve would eat, drink and sleep Cubs…..and that is when my love for the Cubs actually started.
I have had the pleasure of being your treasurer for the past few years and would like to continue. I have enjoyed our meetings as well as the camaraderie with fellow Cub fans.
Go Cubs!!!
DAN MARX (At Large Director) As a cofounder, Cubs World has been my passion since the beginning . I have been an at large director the whole time, and have been part of every meeting , event, game watch, golf match, and board meeting that I have been available for. I love watching its incredible progress and increase in new members. I will continue to offer fresh new ideas for the continued growth of our club.
VP MAKES AN ANNOUNCEMENT
by Jim Juleserian
To my fellow CubsWorld members:
For me it all began when I was sitting next to Dave Gran at a Chicagoland Club meeting. “We’re thinking of starting a Chicago Cubs club.” “Great, count us in.”
My first event with the club was a trip to St. Pete to see the Cubs get beat by the Rays. Good Lord, that’s an awful stadium. Then Betty and I started attending meetings where we played Cubs bingo, listened to Sudden Sam McDowell, watched Steve Adochio’s comedy troop, participated in a speaker forum where I was Joe Maddon, and argued with Dave Gran over the DH.
Dave and Don Mulder saw the passion that I displayed at meetings and they both asked me to take over “Gran Standing with Dave.” I was told you can do whatever you want. So I did. Shortly after I started doing these presentations, Don asked me to join the Board of Directors. A couple of months later our VP decided to step down and I was appointed his replacement.
It has been my honor and pleasure to serve in that role since mid-2019. Along the way I began taking over the job of coordinating events for the Club. It is time for someone else to step up to the VP position BUT, I will be continuing on doing the monthly presentations and I will be continuing as your Events Chairperson.
And yes, I will keep quizzing you every month. (You’re not getting rid of me yet.)
by Jim Juleserian
To my fellow CubsWorld members:
For me it all began when I was sitting next to Dave Gran at a Chicagoland Club meeting. “We’re thinking of starting a Chicago Cubs club.” “Great, count us in.”
My first event with the club was a trip to St. Pete to see the Cubs get beat by the Rays. Good Lord, that’s an awful stadium. Then Betty and I started attending meetings where we played Cubs bingo, listened to Sudden Sam McDowell, watched Steve Adochio’s comedy troop, participated in a speaker forum where I was Joe Maddon, and argued with Dave Gran over the DH.
Dave and Don Mulder saw the passion that I displayed at meetings and they both asked me to take over “Gran Standing with Dave.” I was told you can do whatever you want. So I did. Shortly after I started doing these presentations, Don asked me to join the Board of Directors. A couple of months later our VP decided to step down and I was appointed his replacement.
It has been my honor and pleasure to serve in that role since mid-2019. Along the way I began taking over the job of coordinating events for the Club. It is time for someone else to step up to the VP position BUT, I will be continuing on doing the monthly presentations and I will be continuing as your Events Chairperson.
And yes, I will keep quizzing you every month. (You’re not getting rid of me yet.)
A QUESTION FOR YOU
by Dan Marx and Wayne Richards
We're sure Cubs World members who have visited Wrigley field
have noticed and admired four statues scattered around the property. They are Harry Carey, Ron Santo, Ernie Banks and Billy Williams.
Here is this month's question for everyone. If you were in charge of deciding who would be the next candidate for a statue, who would it be and why? This could fun! Looking forward to hearing from you!
by Dan Marx and Wayne Richards
We're sure Cubs World members who have visited Wrigley field
have noticed and admired four statues scattered around the property. They are Harry Carey, Ron Santo, Ernie Banks and Billy Williams.
Here is this month's question for everyone. If you were in charge of deciding who would be the next candidate for a statue, who would it be and why? This could fun! Looking forward to hearing from you!
BERRIER BREAKS DOWN BARRIERS IN ENTERTAINING MEMBERSHIP MEETING SPEECH
by Dan Marx
We had over 70 members attending our membership meeting Monday night 10/3 at Colony Cottage Rec Center. A delicious barbecue beef dinner from Oakwood restaurant was served. Then our “in house “ author, Gary Koca gave us an update on who our top ten prospects in the farm system are. Things are definitely looking up for us going into the next few years. Then Jim took us through the top 10 trades of all time for the Cubs. We know what the worst one was, but we were also reminded of how kind Philadelphia was to us with 2 tremendous trades in our favor. And, of course, he want over a few bizarre trades, none more bizarre than a player actually being traded for himself. Yep !!!
Our featured speaker was Bill Berrier. It was great hearing about the game from a managerial viewpoint. Bill was in the Dodgers minor league system for a number of years as a player, but never got that cup of coffee. He became an outstanding manager in the Dodgers minor league system having a lifetime winning percentage of .675.
He tolls us about how a rookie Rick Sutcliffe was down on baseball at the beginning of his career and wanted to go home to his ailing father and quit baseball. Berrier told Sutcliffe that he would let him go home to tend to his father and give up on baseball, but only if he would clear his head and come back to the team afterwards.
Berrier also told us that he put his career on the line sticking up for Bill Russell, when no other management would. Russell went on to become the Dodgers starting shortstop for 17 years. Among his humorous stories, he told us about a doppelgänger of Hoss Cartwright who slugged an umpire during one of the games, and Berrier charged the field to protect his player and deflected the attention away from his player.
Berrier had a great sense of humor and the members were loving the stories.
by Dan Marx
We had over 70 members attending our membership meeting Monday night 10/3 at Colony Cottage Rec Center. A delicious barbecue beef dinner from Oakwood restaurant was served. Then our “in house “ author, Gary Koca gave us an update on who our top ten prospects in the farm system are. Things are definitely looking up for us going into the next few years. Then Jim took us through the top 10 trades of all time for the Cubs. We know what the worst one was, but we were also reminded of how kind Philadelphia was to us with 2 tremendous trades in our favor. And, of course, he want over a few bizarre trades, none more bizarre than a player actually being traded for himself. Yep !!!
Our featured speaker was Bill Berrier. It was great hearing about the game from a managerial viewpoint. Bill was in the Dodgers minor league system for a number of years as a player, but never got that cup of coffee. He became an outstanding manager in the Dodgers minor league system having a lifetime winning percentage of .675.
He tolls us about how a rookie Rick Sutcliffe was down on baseball at the beginning of his career and wanted to go home to his ailing father and quit baseball. Berrier told Sutcliffe that he would let him go home to tend to his father and give up on baseball, but only if he would clear his head and come back to the team afterwards.
Berrier also told us that he put his career on the line sticking up for Bill Russell, when no other management would. Russell went on to become the Dodgers starting shortstop for 17 years. Among his humorous stories, he told us about a doppelgänger of Hoss Cartwright who slugged an umpire during one of the games, and Berrier charged the field to protect his player and deflected the attention away from his player.
Berrier had a great sense of humor and the members were loving the stories.
BLEACHER BUM REPORT
by Jack Herbron
Let's look back at the 2022 season and then forward to next year. The Cubs sure looked like a different team in the last month of the season. The young players called up in September looked good and they give us hope for 2023. The young veterans Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner both finished with respectable batting averages. And their defense was very good. I thought they were our best every day players not named Wilson Contreras. I think Wilson was our MVP for 2022. I really believe the Cubs will resign Happ and Contreras in the winter.
Now who are players to watch for next spring? Here are three names to remember! First is Brennen Davis, who carries a big bat and plays the outfield. 2nd is Matt Mervis a first baseman and can fill that position for years to come. I see him as another Anthony Rizzo. And last is Alexander Canario who hit the cover off the ball in the minor leagues. These three players could become the core of the Cubs for years to come.
Look for the Cubs to sign some big names in the offseason. With the addition of a couple of key players, I can envision the Cubs making the playoffs! I'm going to say that Matt Mervis will be the Cubs best player next year. The Rookie of the Year trophy will be on his mantle next October. He will finish with 33 home runs, 112 RBI and a batting average of 281. If your in Las Vegas in the next few months make sure you put down some money on the Cubs. They are going to be a much different team next year!
by Jack Herbron
Let's look back at the 2022 season and then forward to next year. The Cubs sure looked like a different team in the last month of the season. The young players called up in September looked good and they give us hope for 2023. The young veterans Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner both finished with respectable batting averages. And their defense was very good. I thought they were our best every day players not named Wilson Contreras. I think Wilson was our MVP for 2022. I really believe the Cubs will resign Happ and Contreras in the winter.
Now who are players to watch for next spring? Here are three names to remember! First is Brennen Davis, who carries a big bat and plays the outfield. 2nd is Matt Mervis a first baseman and can fill that position for years to come. I see him as another Anthony Rizzo. And last is Alexander Canario who hit the cover off the ball in the minor leagues. These three players could become the core of the Cubs for years to come.
Look for the Cubs to sign some big names in the offseason. With the addition of a couple of key players, I can envision the Cubs making the playoffs! I'm going to say that Matt Mervis will be the Cubs best player next year. The Rookie of the Year trophy will be on his mantle next October. He will finish with 33 home runs, 112 RBI and a batting average of 281. If your in Las Vegas in the next few months make sure you put down some money on the Cubs. They are going to be a much different team next year!
GOLF SCRAMBLE TIME
by Dan Marx
Cubs world members held their final scramble of the year at the Bogart and Bacall golf courses on 9/22. Each course had 4 groups participating.
I personally saw John Curtis put his tee shot 10” from the hole on number 1, and said to myself “ what a shame that isn’t the hole for closest to the pin”. Well, not to worry. John did it again on number 6 to win the closest to the pin on Bogart. Frank Salerno won the closest to the pin on number 2 at Bacall, and in an emotional thank you, he gave credit to his mom and dad.
At Bogart , there was a three way tie for 1st with a score of one under par. Using tiebreakers, it was determined that the team of ( you guessed it) JOHN CURTIS, Marge Curtis , and Jim Hill won 1st place money. The 2nd place team of Dan & Dale Marx and Burt & Myra Fischel took home second place.
At Bacall, there was also a three way tie for 1st. Using the same tiebreakers it was determined that the first place winners were Wayne Babor, Barry Ehrlich, Jeff Finesilver, and Sam Pagoria. The second place team was Ron House, Gene Babiarz, and Frank Salerno.
Thanks to all of you for participating in a fun day , and we hope to see you all next year.
by Dan Marx
Cubs world members held their final scramble of the year at the Bogart and Bacall golf courses on 9/22. Each course had 4 groups participating.
I personally saw John Curtis put his tee shot 10” from the hole on number 1, and said to myself “ what a shame that isn’t the hole for closest to the pin”. Well, not to worry. John did it again on number 6 to win the closest to the pin on Bogart. Frank Salerno won the closest to the pin on number 2 at Bacall, and in an emotional thank you, he gave credit to his mom and dad.
At Bogart , there was a three way tie for 1st with a score of one under par. Using tiebreakers, it was determined that the team of ( you guessed it) JOHN CURTIS, Marge Curtis , and Jim Hill won 1st place money. The 2nd place team of Dan & Dale Marx and Burt & Myra Fischel took home second place.
At Bacall, there was also a three way tie for 1st. Using the same tiebreakers it was determined that the first place winners were Wayne Babor, Barry Ehrlich, Jeff Finesilver, and Sam Pagoria. The second place team was Ron House, Gene Babiarz, and Frank Salerno.
Thanks to all of you for participating in a fun day , and we hope to see you all next year.
CUBS FANS YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE HEARD ABOUT
by Wayne Richards
The Cubbie nation is huge. It actually is not uncommon to notice celebs visiting the "friendly confines." Bill Murray is a good example. He doesn't even bother with a suite. He just pops down with the fans.
We know about Bill. But let's take a look at some famous people whom you might not know were die-hard fans!
by Wayne Richards
The Cubbie nation is huge. It actually is not uncommon to notice celebs visiting the "friendly confines." Bill Murray is a good example. He doesn't even bother with a suite. He just pops down with the fans.
We know about Bill. But let's take a look at some famous people whom you might not know were die-hard fans!
If you've ever seen the masterful film the Untouchables you certainly were made aware that Al Capone was a huge baseball fan. In fact, he often attended, so called, business meetings with a baseball bat in hand!
As long as we're on the subject, John Dillinger and his son were also Cubs fans. In the words of public enemy #1..." I’d like to have enough money to enjoy life; be clear of everything – not worry; take care of my old man, and see a ball game every day." – John Dillinger
By the way, John Dillinger played a bit of semi-pro ball and was reported to be a very good pitcher!
As long as we're on the subject, John Dillinger and his son were also Cubs fans. In the words of public enemy #1..." I’d like to have enough money to enjoy life; be clear of everything – not worry; take care of my old man, and see a ball game every day." – John Dillinger
By the way, John Dillinger played a bit of semi-pro ball and was reported to be a very good pitcher!
Just how much of a Cubs fan could late night talk show host Stephen Colbert be? After all, he's sandwiched in New York between the Yankees and the Mets.
If you are a doubter you must be aware of something. Colbert loved Wrigley and Cubs so much, he has gone undercover as a hot dog vendor. In fact, the name on his badge was DONNY FRANKS! (I think he can afford a ticket now.)
If you are a doubter you must be aware of something. Colbert loved Wrigley and Cubs so much, he has gone undercover as a hot dog vendor. In fact, the name on his badge was DONNY FRANKS! (I think he can afford a ticket now.)
IS TOM RICKETTS REALLY LISTENING ?
by Wayne Richards
As the post season builds to a fever pitch, one wonders what actually is going through Tom Ricketts mind. It is the subject of discussion for many Cub World members and fans everywhere.
Every year at this time, Ricketts publishes a letter sharing his thoughts. Here is some excerpts for your perusal. (courtesy of Twitter.)
"This past season ended too soon. While we knew 2022 was going to be a year of transition, we were cautiously optimistic with our offseason moves we could compete for a spot in the expanded postseason format. Obviously, our poor start ended those hopes early in the season.
Yet as I look back, 2022 felt like two different seasons. The first half of the year was defined by young players struggling to adjust to everyday roles and injuries that exposed a lack of overall team depth. However, the second half of the season had a much different feel. It showcased young players, particularly young pitchers, growing into their roles and competing hard in every game.
As the season progressed, it was clear that David Ross and his coaching staff were doing an excellent job leading and developing our young team. We closed out the season's second half with a 39-31 record (a .557 winning percentage), which is fifth-best in the National League. Several of our position players proved that they belong at the major league level while our pitching infrastructure continued to improve. This improvement is perhaps best evidenced by our starting pitchers posting a 2.89 ERA following the All-Star break, third-best in the majors.
To win the World Series again we need to build a team that can consistently make the playoffs. That means having a strong farm system. In fact, the last 15 World Series winners were ranked in the top 10 farm systems in MLB in the years leading up to their titles. Our system made tremendous progress this year and it’s clear the efforts we have made in recent drafts and at the trade deadline are showing positive results. FanGraphs recently ranked our farm system 5th in baseball, a significant improvement over our preseason ranking of 8th and our 2021 preseason ranking of 22nd. Additionally, our prospects are learning to win as a team as three of our four minor league affiliates reached the postseason, with the South Bend Cubs winning the Midwest League championship.
There is positive momentum in our organization. Jed Hoyer and his team are building an expansive core of young high-ceiling players while making investments in infrastructure and technology to help them reach their maximum potential.
My family does not take your loyalty for granted nor our responsibility to be stewards of this beloved franchise. It was certainly on display at the MLB at Field of Dreams game, which was among the most-watched regular season game on any network this year. I have no doubt that passion will again take the center stage during the much-anticipated MLB London Series in 2023.
So, as we look to the future, I want to say thank you. Thank you for your ongoing support of this team. I remain committed to getting back to championship baseball and look forward to sharing our love of the game together in 2023."
by Wayne Richards
As the post season builds to a fever pitch, one wonders what actually is going through Tom Ricketts mind. It is the subject of discussion for many Cub World members and fans everywhere.
Every year at this time, Ricketts publishes a letter sharing his thoughts. Here is some excerpts for your perusal. (courtesy of Twitter.)
"This past season ended too soon. While we knew 2022 was going to be a year of transition, we were cautiously optimistic with our offseason moves we could compete for a spot in the expanded postseason format. Obviously, our poor start ended those hopes early in the season.
Yet as I look back, 2022 felt like two different seasons. The first half of the year was defined by young players struggling to adjust to everyday roles and injuries that exposed a lack of overall team depth. However, the second half of the season had a much different feel. It showcased young players, particularly young pitchers, growing into their roles and competing hard in every game.
As the season progressed, it was clear that David Ross and his coaching staff were doing an excellent job leading and developing our young team. We closed out the season's second half with a 39-31 record (a .557 winning percentage), which is fifth-best in the National League. Several of our position players proved that they belong at the major league level while our pitching infrastructure continued to improve. This improvement is perhaps best evidenced by our starting pitchers posting a 2.89 ERA following the All-Star break, third-best in the majors.
To win the World Series again we need to build a team that can consistently make the playoffs. That means having a strong farm system. In fact, the last 15 World Series winners were ranked in the top 10 farm systems in MLB in the years leading up to their titles. Our system made tremendous progress this year and it’s clear the efforts we have made in recent drafts and at the trade deadline are showing positive results. FanGraphs recently ranked our farm system 5th in baseball, a significant improvement over our preseason ranking of 8th and our 2021 preseason ranking of 22nd. Additionally, our prospects are learning to win as a team as three of our four minor league affiliates reached the postseason, with the South Bend Cubs winning the Midwest League championship.
There is positive momentum in our organization. Jed Hoyer and his team are building an expansive core of young high-ceiling players while making investments in infrastructure and technology to help them reach their maximum potential.
My family does not take your loyalty for granted nor our responsibility to be stewards of this beloved franchise. It was certainly on display at the MLB at Field of Dreams game, which was among the most-watched regular season game on any network this year. I have no doubt that passion will again take the center stage during the much-anticipated MLB London Series in 2023.
So, as we look to the future, I want to say thank you. Thank you for your ongoing support of this team. I remain committed to getting back to championship baseball and look forward to sharing our love of the game together in 2023."
WALK UP MUSIC...OLD AND NEW
by Wayne Richards
Remember George Bell? He played for the Cubbies in 1991 as a left fielder. I was at the friendly confines that year enjoying a game when I noticed as Bell approached home base to bat, there were a few loud and distinct bells that rang loudly in the air thanks to the fine organist Gary Pressy. It was then that I first noticed a trend to feature selected songs for many players during their "walk ups".
This tradition actually began in 1970 via the inspiration of my friend Nancy Faust, ex organist for the Chicago White Sox. Nancy's idea caught on with fans as she musically identified each batter by performing their home state song. She must've spent hours on research.
Today's ball players actually request certain tunes be played. I know sitting in a ball park, I wouldn't recognize more than a handful of selections but the "TIMES THEY ARE A CHANGIN" (Come to think of it, that would be a great theme song for the entire Cubs team!)
Let's begin with a few selections beginning with Seiya Suzuki. His choice of song was made famous by the band Imagine Dragons. The song is THUNDER. I would love to hear this song played with straight organ.
Justin Steele prefers a country ditty titled, GOD'S GONNA CUT YOU DOWN by the great Johnny Cash. It's very refreshing for younger players to acknowledge older artists and their songs.
But...its an entirely new ball game as you are about to find out!
For more....CLICK HERE
by Wayne Richards
Remember George Bell? He played for the Cubbies in 1991 as a left fielder. I was at the friendly confines that year enjoying a game when I noticed as Bell approached home base to bat, there were a few loud and distinct bells that rang loudly in the air thanks to the fine organist Gary Pressy. It was then that I first noticed a trend to feature selected songs for many players during their "walk ups".
This tradition actually began in 1970 via the inspiration of my friend Nancy Faust, ex organist for the Chicago White Sox. Nancy's idea caught on with fans as she musically identified each batter by performing their home state song. She must've spent hours on research.
Today's ball players actually request certain tunes be played. I know sitting in a ball park, I wouldn't recognize more than a handful of selections but the "TIMES THEY ARE A CHANGIN" (Come to think of it, that would be a great theme song for the entire Cubs team!)
Let's begin with a few selections beginning with Seiya Suzuki. His choice of song was made famous by the band Imagine Dragons. The song is THUNDER. I would love to hear this song played with straight organ.
Justin Steele prefers a country ditty titled, GOD'S GONNA CUT YOU DOWN by the great Johnny Cash. It's very refreshing for younger players to acknowledge older artists and their songs.
But...its an entirely new ball game as you are about to find out!
For more....CLICK HERE
THE FINAL WORD!!
by Wayne Richards
Pay no attention to the messy desk. Once I straighten it out, I'm always ready to write some more. It has been and continues to be a pleasure helping to piece this monthly newsletter together for your entertainment and information.
Dan Marx, my editor and friend, is always presenting ideas and helpful suggestions to make this newsletter special for all! The Members Corner is Dan's brainchild and we are grateful for those who take a little time to express their opinions. This corner is for everybody to share thoughts and ideas about our beloved Cubbies.
Thank you to all who contribute articles. We encourage one and all to create something. After all, we're a community and community members always should have a voice!
In conclusion, I have one last question for everyone. Next to Jack Herbron's article, there is a photo of a gentleman standing on a concrete wall. What was he doing up there? I know. I bet Jack knows too! What do you think?
See you all in November!!!!
by Wayne Richards
Pay no attention to the messy desk. Once I straighten it out, I'm always ready to write some more. It has been and continues to be a pleasure helping to piece this monthly newsletter together for your entertainment and information.
Dan Marx, my editor and friend, is always presenting ideas and helpful suggestions to make this newsletter special for all! The Members Corner is Dan's brainchild and we are grateful for those who take a little time to express their opinions. This corner is for everybody to share thoughts and ideas about our beloved Cubbies.
Thank you to all who contribute articles. We encourage one and all to create something. After all, we're a community and community members always should have a voice!
In conclusion, I have one last question for everyone. Next to Jack Herbron's article, there is a photo of a gentleman standing on a concrete wall. What was he doing up there? I know. I bet Jack knows too! What do you think?
See you all in November!!!!