Curse of the Bambino Established
The curse that haunted Boston for 86 years, broken in 2004.
The Curse of the Bambino is a legendary explanation for the Boston Red Sox' 86-year championship drought, said to have been initiated upon the 1919 trade of star player Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees.
Quick Facts
- Origin event
- Sale of Babe Ruth to New York Yankees
- Duration of drought
- 86 years (1918–2004)
- Last championship before curse
- 1918 World Series
- First championship after curse
- 2004 World Series
- Primary rivalry affected
- New York Yankees
Lore & Background
The Red Sox won the first World Series in 1903 and four more championships by 1918, for a total of five. Their following 86-year championship drought is one of the longest in baseball history, often attributed to the 'Curse of the Bambino' said to have been initiated against the Red Sox upon the 1919 trade of star player Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees. The drought ended when the team won their sixth World Series championship in 2004.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did the championship drought last?
The Red Sox endured an 86-year span without a World Series title, stretching from 1918 until their breakthrough win in 2004. This extended period of failure became a defining characteristic of the club's identity for most of the twentieth century.
How was the curse finally broken?
The Red Sox ended the drought by winning the 2004 World Series, famously rallying from a three-game deficit against the Yankees in the ALCS to reach the fall classic. This victory dispelled the long-standing superstition and marked the franchise's first championship since 1918.
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