National League Pennant (1932)

Lore & Background

The 1932 pennant was part of a pattern for the Cubs under the ownership of the Wrigley family and president Bill Veeck, Sr., who won a pennant every three years from 1929 to 1938. The team featured six future Hall of Famers, including Hack Wilson, who set the single-season RBI record of 191 in 1930. The World Series that year is famous for Babe Ruth's alleged 'called shot' in Game 3 at Wrigley Field.

In Their Own Story

The wind howled off Lake Michigan, whipping through the bleachers of Wrigley Field as the final out was recorded. Charlie Grimm wiped sweat from his brow, looking up at the scoreboard one last time before the season turned to autumn. The crowd roared, a mix of jubilation and nervous anticipation; they had conquered the National League, but the true test awaited in New York. Gabby Hartnett adjusted his mitt, the leather creaking softly, knowing that while they held the pennant, the ghosts of the Yankees were already waiting to haunt them.

Reader's Guide

The 1932 Cubs were managed by Charlie Grimm, who had previously been a star first baseman for the team. The club finished 90–64, winning the pennant by four games over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Did You Know?

• This was the Cubs' fourth National League pennant in the 20th century, following titles in 1906, 1907, 1908, 1910, and 1918.
• The Cubs would go on to win another National League pennant in 1935, 1938, and 1945 before their next pennant in 2016.
• Charlie Grimm had previously been a star first baseman for the team.