This story was excerpted from Jordan Bastian’s Cubs Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe ...

The Cubs' journey to a championship in 2016 might have seemed like a Cinderella run in the grand scheme of things, but inside Chicago's clubhouse, pressure to win was higher than ever.

From a prospect in a rebuild to a World Series hero, Anthony Rizzo's time with the Chicago Cubs was marked with countless unforgettable moments.

Never mind that the organization once known as baseball’s lovable losers took 108 years to win one in 2016, its first since 1908. These 2026 Cubs can dream big again without being scoffed at.

Why are we asking for donations? Why are we asking for donations? This site is free thanks to our community of supporters. Voluntary donations from readers like you keep our news accessible for ...