National League Pennant (1910)

Lore & Background

After winning back-to-back World Series in 1907 and 1908, the Cubs fell six games out of first place in 1909, a season some historians attribute to the absence of catcher Johnny Kling, who left to play professional pocket billiards. Kling returned in 1910, and the Cubs won the pennant again, but lost the World Series to the Philadelphia Athletics.

In Their Own Story

The wind off Lake Michigan cut through the heavy wool uniforms at West Side Park as the final out was recorded against the Reds in late September. The roar that erupted wasn't merely for a victory; it was the sound of a four-year empire cementing its legacy. Frank Chance stood on the mound, cap pulled low against the glare, watching his infielders—Tinker and Evers—exchange a weary but triumphant nod. They knew the gauntlet awaited them in the World Series against Mack's Athletics, yet for that fleeting autumn moment in 1910, they were simply kings of the National League, masters of a game defined by grit, strategy, and the unbreakable bond of the 'Tinker to Evers to Chance' trio.

Reader's Guide

The 1910 World Series was a best-of-seven series that ended in five games.

Did You Know?

• The Cubs' 1906 team set a modern-era record winning percentage of .763.
• The Cubs' 108-year World Series championship drought was the longest in major professional sports in the United States and Canada.
• The Cubs have played the most games in MLB history through 2024.