The Chicago Cubs play their first game at Weeghman Park (currently Wrigley Field), defeating the Cincinnati Reds 7-6 in 11 innings.

The Chicago Cubs are an enduring symbol of American professional baseball, deeply woven into the fabric of the Windy City. As a venerable franchise in Major League Baseball (MLB), they proudly compete within the National League (NL) Central division, captivating generations of fans with their rich history and distinctive charm.

Their cherished home, the iconic Wrigley Field, stands majestically on Chicago's vibrant North Side. Often affectionately referred to as "The Friendly Confines," this historic ballpark is more than just a venue for baseball; it's a cultural landmark, a place where the ivy-covered walls whisper tales of triumphs and heartbreaks, and where the neighborhood buzzes with an undeniable energy on game days.

A Storied Franchise with Deep Roots

The Cubs' journey began long before they adopted their current moniker. Established in 1876, the team was originally known as the Chicago White Stockings, notably becoming a founding member of the National League, a pivotal moment in the sport's early development. It wasn't until 1903 that the team officially embraced the beloved name, the Chicago Cubs, forging an identity that would resonate for over a century.

Chicago's Baseball Divide: North Siders vs. South Siders

Chicago holds the unique distinction of being home to two Major League Baseball teams, fostering a spirited city-wide rivalry. While the Cubs represent the National League on the North Side, their crosstown counterparts, the Chicago White Sox, are fierce competitors in the American League (AL) Central division, playing their home games on the city's South Side. This geographical distinction has given rise to the Cubs' popular nickname, "the North Siders," a playful yet proud acknowledgment of their roots and a direct contrast to the White Sox, often referred to as the "South Siders."

A Legacy of World Series Drama and Triumph

Throughout their illustrious history, the Chicago Cubs have graced the World Series stage a total of 11 times, experiencing both exhilarating highs and profound lows.

Early Dominance and a Crosstown Heartbreak

One of their most remarkable early seasons was in 1906, when the Cubs achieved an astounding 116 wins against just 36 losses, boasting a modern-era record winning percentage of .763. However, destiny delivered a dramatic twist, as they ultimately fell in the World Series to their very own city rivals, the Chicago White Sox—a team famously dubbed "The Hitless Wonders"—in a captivating six-game series, making that particular "Crosstown Classic" especially memorable.

Undeterred, the Cubs quickly rebounded, achieving back-to-back World Series championships in 1907 and 1908. This remarkable feat not only marked them as the first major league team to participate in three consecutive World Series but also the first to clinch the championship twice in a row, solidifying their place in early baseball lore, an era often associated with legendary figures like Tinker, Evers, and Chance.

Breaking the Curse: The 2016 World Series Triumph

For decades, the Cubs and their loyal fanbase endured what became known as "the Curse of the Billy Goat," a fabled hex that seemed to shadow the team, contributing to one of the most talked-about droughts in professional sports. This period saw the Cubs go 71 years without a National League pennant and an astonishing 108 years without a World Series championship. Both of these lengthy periods stood as record droughts in Major League Baseball, with the 108-year World Series dry spell being the longest such occurrence across all major North American sports.

However, history was gloriously rewritten in 2016. The Chicago Cubs mounted an unforgettable season, culminating in victory in the National League Championship Series and, more significantly, triumphing in the 2016 World Series. This monumental achievement not only brought an end to the agonizing droughts but also ignited an unparalleled celebration across Chicago and among Cub fans worldwide, solidifying their place as champions once more.

Postseason Presence in the Modern Era

Since the advent of divisional play in 1969, the Chicago Cubs have consistently demonstrated their competitive spirit, making 11 postseason appearances through the 2020 season. This sustained presence in contention underscores their enduring commitment to excellence and their consistent pursuit of another championship title.

Franchise Legacy and All-Time Record

Through the 2021 season, the Chicago Cubs franchise boasts an all-time record of 11,087 wins against 10,521 losses, yielding a winning percentage of .513. This impressive record reflects a long and proud history of competitive baseball, fueled by a passionate fanbase and an indelible mark on the sport's landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the official name of the Chicago baseball team based on the North Side?
The team is officially known as the Chicago Cubs.
In which league and division do the Chicago Cubs compete?
They compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as part of the National League (NL) Central division.
Where do the Chicago Cubs play their home games?
Their home games are played at the historic Wrigley Field, located on the North Side of Chicago.
When did the Chicago Cubs last win the World Series?
The Chicago Cubs famously won their most recent World Series championship in 2016, ending a 108-year drought.
Who are the Cubs' main rivals in Chicago?
Their main cross-town rivals are the Chicago White Sox, who play in the American League.
What was the "108-year drought" often associated with the Cubs?
The "108-year drought" refers to the period between their 1908 and 2016 World Series championships, which was the longest such drought in MLB history and across all major North American sports.
What is the Chicago Cubs' all-time record?
Through the 2021 season, the franchise's all-time record stands at 11,087 wins and 10,521 losses, with a winning percentage of .513.
Why are the Chicago Cubs often referred to as "the North Siders"?
They are called "the North Siders" because their home ballpark, Wrigley Field, is located on Chicago's North Side, distinguishing them from the White Sox, who play on the South Side.