On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Bleed Cubbie Blue offers a delightful Cubs-centric exploration of baseball's rich history. With an abundance of lore and various narratives unfolding over time, this article presents a handy Cubs timeline to enhance your follow-along experience.

Uncover the Colorful Tapestry of Cubs Baseball History

1913: World Tour and Exhibition Games

In 1913, exhibition teams composed of White Sox and Giants players embarked on a world tour. They made a stop in Tokyo and played against each other at Keio University Stadium. The White Sox emerged victorious with a score of 9-4. The next day, a combined team defeated Keio University 16-3, followed by the White Sox beating the Giants 12-3. These games marked an important chapter in baseball history.During this time, baseball was evolving on a global scale, and these exhibition matches showcased the talent and competitiveness of the teams. It was a glimpse into the future of the sport and how it would continue to spread across different continents.

1914: An Indoor Baseball Game for a Cause

In 1914, an indoor baseball game was held in Chicago, IL. The purpose of this game was to raise funds for the family of recently deceased Chicago Cubs third baseman Jim Doyle. It was a touching gesture that demonstrated the community's support for the players and their families.This event not only honored Doyle but also highlighted the importance of baseball in the lives of the players and the fans. It showed how the sport could bring people together in times of need and create a sense of unity.

1920: The Reserve Clause Ruling

In 1920, a lawsuit that awarded $264,000 in damages to the Baltimore Federal League club was reversed by a court of appeals. The court upheld the reserve clause and held that baseball was not interstate commerce nor subject to antitrust laws. This ruling had a significant impact on the future of baseball and the relationship between players and teams.The original suit was initiated because the Baltimore Feds were not included in the settlement of the Federal League war. They wanted a major league team in Baltimore and were disappointed with the outcome. The ruling in 1920 would be upheld in 1922 by the U.S. Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice William Howard Taft, solidifying the reserve clause as a fundamental aspect of baseball.

1938: A Trade that Shaped the Giants

In 1938, the Giants made a significant trade by sending Dick Bartell, Hank Leiber, and Gus Mancuso to the Cubs in exchange for Billy Jurges, Frank Demaree, and Ken O’Dea. This trade worked out well for the Giants as the New York-born Jurges became a key player and anchored the infield for seven years. On the other hand, Chicago-born Bartell had a less successful stint at Wrigley Field, lasting just a season.Trades like this one often have a lasting impact on the teams involved. They can shape the future of a franchise and determine which players will become legends. In this case, the trade between the Giants and the Cubs had a significant effect on the development of both teams.

1939: The Cubs' Shortstop Swap

In 1939, the Cubs acquired Billy Rogell from the Detroit Tigers in a trade of veteran shortstops. One newspaper described it as a trade of “worn-out shortstops.” Rogell had injured his arm playing handball the previous year and struggled at the plate, hitting just.136 before retiring. The Tigers would release “Rowdy Richard” five games into the 1941 season but he would go on to have a successful career with the Giants until 1946.Trades involving shortstops are often crucial as this position is vital to a team's defense and offense. In this instance, the Cubs' acquisition of Rogell was part of their efforts to strengthen their infield, while the Tigers looked to move on from a player who was no longer performing at a high level.

1952: The Bonus Rule and Its Changes

In 1952, at the Winter Meetings, a new bonus rule was approved. This rule replaced the one that was instituted in 1946 and repealed in 1950. The new bonus limit was set at $4,000, and if a player exceeded this limit, he could be lost through the draft. This second bonus rule would last until 1957 when it was abolished.The bonus rule played a significant role in shaping the landscape of baseball during this period. It influenced the way teams signed and developed players and had a direct impact on the talent pool available to major league teams.

1955: The Brooklyn-Cubs Trade

In 1955, Brooklyn traded 3B Don Hoak and OF Walt Moryn to the Cubs for 3B Randy Jackson. These trades often involved players with different skill sets and potential. In this case, the Cubs acquired Hoak and Moryn, who brought their own strengths to the team.Trades like these are a common occurrence in baseball and can have a ripple effect on the performance and dynamics of the teams involved. They allow teams to acquire new talent and fill gaps in their rosters.

1959: The Cubs' Big Trade

In 1959, the Cubs made a significant trade by sending OF Lee Walls and Lou Jackson, along with P Bill Henry, to the Reds for slugger Frank Thomas. This trade brought a new dimension to the Cubs' lineup and added power to their offense.Trades for star players like Frank Thomas can have a transformative effect on a team. They can change the course of a season and potentially lead to championships. In this case, the Cubs' acquisition of Thomas was a move that aimed to improve their performance on the field.

1968: The Commissioner's Resignation

In 1968, William Eckert resigned as commissioner. This was a significant event in the history of baseball as the commissioner plays a crucial role in overseeing the league and making important decisions.The resignation of Eckert led to a period of transition within the baseball community. It sparked discussions about the future direction of the sport and the role of the commissioner.

1990: Free Agent Signing

In 1990, free agent George Bell signed with the Cubs. This signing brought a new star to the team and added excitement to the Cubs' fan base.Free agent signings can have a major impact on a team's performance and popularity. They allow teams to acquire proven talent and strengthen their rosters.

2018: A Tragic Car Crash

In 2018, José Castillo, 38, and Luis Valbuena, 33, were both killed in a car crash in their native Venezuela. Their car, driven by teammate Carlos Rivero, who survived the accident, hit a rock on the road placed by bandits who then robbed the passengers. This tragic event was a reminder of the risks faced by athletes even outside of the playing field.Such incidents highlight the importance of safety and the need for measures to protect athletes. They also serve as a somber reminder of the human side of sports and the impact that tragedies can have on families and communities.

2022: Winter Meetings Signings

In 2022, at the Winter Meetings in San Diego, CA, the Cubs signed P Jameson Taillon for four years and $68 million and OF Cody Bellinger for one year at $17.5 million. These signings were important moves for the Cubs as they added talent and depth to their pitching and outfield.Winter meetings are a crucial time for teams to make strategic moves and strengthen their rosters. Signings like these can have a significant impact on a team's performance in the upcoming season.

Cubs Birthdays and Notable Figures

The Cubs have a rich history of talented players, and on certain days, we celebrate their birthdays. Harry Wolverton, Tony Lazzeri HOF, Tommy Brown, Larry Bowa, and Jocko Conlan HOF are among the notable Cubs players whose birthdays are commemorated.These players have made significant contributions to the Cubs and baseball history. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.

Today in History

1240: Mongols led by Batu Khan occupied and destroyed Kyiv after an eight-day siege. Out of 50,000 people in the city, only 2,000 survived. This event had a profound impact on the history of Ukraine and the region.1790: The U.S. Congress moved from New York City to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This was a significant moment in the development of the United States and the establishment of its capital.1866: The Chicago water supply tunnel 3,227 meters into Lake Michigan was completed. This was a major achievement that provided a reliable source of water for the city.1897: London became the world's first city to host licensed taxicabs. This innovation in transportation had a lasting impact on urban mobility.1917: The French munition ship SS Mont Blanc collided with the Norwegian SS Imo in Halifax Harbor, Canada, resulting in an explosion that killed at least 1,700 and injured more than 9,000 people. It was the world's largest pre-atomic explosion and had a significant impact on the history of Halifax.1925: A record 73,000 people paid to watch the Chicago Bears beat the NY Giants 19-7. This game was a highlight of the football season and demonstrated the passion and competitiveness of the teams.1964: “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” first aired on TV. This holiday classic has become a beloved part of Christmas traditions and has entertained generations of viewers.