1972 NLCS Game 5 vs Reds
The Chicago Cubs, originally known as the Chicago White Stockings, are a charter member of the National League, having started play in the National Association of Base Ball Players in 1870. They are the only franchise to play continuously in the same city since the National League's formation in 1876 and are the earliest formed active professional sports club in North America.
Quick Facts
- Date
- October 11, 1972
- Venue
- Riverfront Stadium, Cincinnati
- Result
- Cincinnati Reds win 4-3 (in 10 innings)
- Key moment
- Johnny Bench's run scoring on a dropped third strike
- Series outcome
- Reds win NLCS 3-2
Lore & Background
The team was originally called the White Stockings by sportswriters, and later the Colts, Orphans, and finally the Cubs in 1903. In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed the team's ballpark and equipment, but they played the season to completion on the road in borrowed uniforms, finishing second, just two games short of the title. The club then dropped out of the league during the city's recovery until being revived in 1874.
Reader's Guide
The team's early history includes winning the National League's first championship in 1876 under William Hulbert, with Albert Spalding winning 47 games. Cap Anson led the team to pennants in 1880 and 1881. The 1880 team set an all-time NL record with a .798 winning percentage.
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