On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Bleed Cubbie Blue takes you on a delightful exploration of the Cubs' baseball past. With a focus on lore and various narratives, this light-hearted look unfolds over time. Let's follow along with this handy Cubs timeline.

Uncover the Cubs' Colorful Past with Bleed Cubbie Blue

1905: A Trade that Shaped the Cubs' Future

In 1905, the Cubs made a significant trade. They sent OF Jack McCarthy and Billy Maloney, 3B Doc Casey, and P Buttons Briggs to Brooklyn in exchange for Jimmy Sheckard. This move would have a lasting impact as Sheckard would go on to take over LF for the National League champions in the next three years. It was a turning point in the Cubs' history, setting the stage for future developments. (2)This trade not only brought in a new player but also marked a change in the team's lineup and strategy. It showed the Cubs' willingness to make bold moves to improve their chances of success. Over the years, this trade would be remembered as one of the key moments in the team's history.

1926: Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis Gets a New Term

In 1926, Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis was given a new seven-year term as commissioner with a raise to $65,000 per annum. This was a significant development in the history of baseball. Landis played a crucial role in shaping the sport and maintaining its integrity. His leadership and authority were widely respected. (1,2)During his tenure, Landis made several important decisions that had a lasting impact on baseball. His strict enforcement of rules and his ability to handle controversial situations helped to establish baseball as a respected sport. His new term and raise were a testament to his importance and influence in the baseball world.

1975: The Return of Bill Veeck

In 1975, the colorful Bill Veeck made a comeback. A group he headed bought 80 percent of the White Sox from John Allyn. Veeck was known for his innovative and entertaining approaches to baseball. His presence brought a new energy and excitement to the team. (1)His leadership and ideas transformed the White Sox franchise. He implemented various promotions and fan-friendly initiatives that made baseball more accessible and enjoyable for fans. His return was a significant event in baseball history and had a lasting impact on the team and the sport.

1976: Court Proceedings and Commissioner's Authority

In 1976, court proceedings in Charlie Finley's $10 million damage suit against Commissioner Bowie Kuhn began in Chicago. The issue at hand was Kuhn's voiding of Finley's attempted player sales last June. The proceedings would take 15 days, and the decision would take three months. However, the decision would uphold the Commissioner's authority to act "in the best interests of baseball." (1,2)This case highlighted the importance of the Commissioner's role in maintaining the integrity and stability of baseball. It demonstrated that the Commissioner had the power to make decisions that were in the best interests of the sport as a whole. The outcome of the case set an important precedent for future disputes in baseball.

2016: Luxury Tax Payments and the Cubs' Place

In 2016, a record number of six teams were assessed luxury tax payments for the coming season. The Dodgers ($31.8 million) and Yankees ($27.4 million) led the pack of profligate spenders. The Cubs were also among the teams assessed penalties, with a payment of less than $5 million. This showed the Cubs' financial standing and their commitment to competing at a high level. (2)The luxury tax payments were a reflection of the teams' spending habits and their efforts to build competitive rosters. The Cubs' inclusion in this group demonstrated their willingness to invest in their team and compete for championships. It was a significant milestone in the team's recent history.

Cubs Birthdays and Historical Events

Sammy Strang, Tony Kaufmann, Joe Berry, Adolfo Phillips*, Paul Noce, and Tyler Chatwood have all had their birthdays within the Cubs' baseball history. These individuals have made their mark in different ways and have been a part of the team's story. (2)Along with the Cubs' birthdays, there are also numerous historical events that have taken place on these days. From King Henry VI's coronation in 1431 to the last recorded eruption of Mount Fuji in 1707, these events add to the rich tapestry of history. The Boston tea party incident in 1773 and the US Major League Baseball's elevation of the Negro Leagues to Major League status in 2020 are also significant events that have shaped the course of history. (2)These historical events and birthdays provide a unique perspective on the Cubs' place in history. They show that the team is not just about baseball but also about the larger context of human history. Each event and birthday is a part of the Cubs' story and contributes to their legacy.