The Ricketts Ownership Era (2009-Present)

Lore & Background

The team was originally called the White Stockings, then Orphans, Infants, Remnants, and Colts by the press before officially becoming the Cubs in 1903. Key early figures include William Hulbert, who financed the club and spearheaded the formation of the National League, and Cap Anson, the team's captain and greatest early player. The club won the first National League championship in 1876 and later pennants in 1880 and 1881.

In Their Own Story

October 2016, Wrigley Field. The air is thick with anticipation as Ben Zobrist steps up to the plate against Cody Allen. A sharp single arcs toward left field, scoring Kyle Schwarber from second base for a walk-off hit. The roar from the stands finally breaks the spell of 1908.

Reader's Guide

It provides no information about Wrigley Field lights or night games.

Did You Know?

• The Chicago White Stockings won the NABBP championship in 1870, though the title was disputed by the New York Mutuals.
• The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed the team's ballpark and all equipment, but the club finished second that season playing on the road in borrowed uniforms.
• Pitcher Larry Corcoran threw three no-hitters in the early 1880s, a record that was later tied by other pitchers (e.g., Cy Young) before Sandy Koufax broke it in 1965.