Franchise Career Home Runs Leader (Sammy Sosa)

Lore & Background

The franchise was originally known as the Chicago White Stockings, and later called the Orphans, Infants, Remnants, and Colts by the press before officially becoming the Cubs in 1903. The team is the only franchise to play continuously in the same city since the formation of the National League in 1876, and is the earliest formed active professional sports club in North America.

In Their Own Story

The air in Wrigley Field hung heavy with humidity and anticipation as the sun dipped below the ivy-covered walls. Sammy Sosa stood at the plate, gripping his bat with familiar confidence. The crowd, a sea of blue and red, held its breath. He swung—a violent arc that sent the ball soaring high into the Chicago sky, disappearing over the bleachers in left field. Sosa dropped the bat, executing his signature flip before beginning his trot. He pointed to the sky as fans rushed toward the railing, faces illuminated by camera flashes. In that moment, he wasn't just a player; he was hope incarnate, a giant walking among men, breaking records with every step.

Reader's Guide

The team's early history includes winning the National League's first championship in 1876 under president William Hulbert, and later dynasties led by Cap Anson in the 1880s. The club survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed their ballpark and equipment.

Did You Know?

• The Chicago White Stockings won the NABBP championship in 1870, though the title was disputed by the New York Mutuals.
• In 1880, the White Stockings posted an all-time NL record winning percentage of .798.
• Pitcher Larry Corcoran threw three no-hitters in the early 1880s, a record that stood until Sandy Koufax broke it in 1965.
• Fred Goldsmith is one of two pitchers credited with the invention of the curveball.