The Lovable Reunion - Jake Arrieta & John Lackey on no-hitters, beer fridges & more Cubs World Series tales

The Herd with Colin Cowherd1h 28mApril 29, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In a heartfelt three-part reunion episode of 'The Herd with Colin Cowherd,' former Cubs pitchers Jake Arrieta and John Lackey reflect on the 10-year anniversary of the 2016 World Series championship, sharing intimate stories that capture the essence of their historic run. From Arrieta’s transformative journey from Baltimore to Cy Young glory in Chicago, to Lackey’s steady leadership across three World Series titles, the conversation highlights the intangible forces behind their success—team chemistry, mental resilience, and a culture built on trust, accountability, and fun. They recount pivotal moments like Arrieta’s no-hitter, the freezing Game 2, the rain delay in Game 7, and the emotional weight of breaking the 108-year curse, all while emphasizing the importance of veteran mentorship, locker room bonding, and the legendary beer fridge and team trips that strengthened their brotherhood. The episode captures how a shared belief in one another—across stars and bench players—created a legacy that transcended baseball. The reunion deepens into personal reflections on identity, growth, and the lasting impact of adversity and victory. Both Arrieta and Lackey speak candidly about the emotional toll of professional sports, the quiet power of leadership, and how the journey shaped them beyond the field. They express profound gratitude for their teammates, calling the 2016 Cubs 'forever' and crediting their time together for personal transformation. The episode closes with a warm, celebratory tone, underscored by sponsor reads promoting mental health and authentic storytelling, reinforcing the message that connection, humility, and presence are as vital as talent in achieving greatness. The legacy of the 2016 Cubs is not just about a championship—it’s about a culture of belonging, resilience, and shared purpose that continues to inspire.

Key Takeaways
1

Championship culture is built on trust, veteran mentorship, and intentional team bonding—off-field relationships deepen on-field performance.

2

Self-belief, mental toughness, and embracing one’s identity are critical to overcoming career struggles and achieving elite performance.

3

Balancing intense preparation with fun and relaxation—like team dinners and trips—sustains long-term team cohesion and performance.

4

Leadership is defined by consistency, presence, and quiet example, not just loud declarations or statistics.

5

Personal growth often emerges from enduring hardship, and shared adversity forges lifelong bonds and resilience.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
20 min

The 2016 Cubs Legacy: A Celebration of Brotherhood and Belief

I came here for jewelry. I didn't come here for the haircut.

Highlight
20:00
25 min

The Power of Veteran Leadership and Team Culture

You got to earn your party. That's leadership, bro.

Highlight
45:00
25 min

No-Hitters, Mental Toughness, and the 2016 Season's Turning Points

I knew I was going to be an elite starter in the big leagues. I just had that self-belief.

Highlight
1:10:00
14 min

The 2016 World Series: From 3-1 Down to Historic Victory

The final chapter explores the emotional rollercoaster of the 2016 World Series, particularly the 3-1 deficit against Cleveland. Arrieta and Lackey reflect on the belief that kept them going—knowing they had the talent, the depth, and the mental toughness to come back. They discuss key moments like Arrieta’s game six start in freezing conditions, the dugout’s reaction to Ben Zobrist’s bunt, and the pivotal two-run homer by Arrieta in game seven. The episode closes with a powerful moment of unity as all three pitchers—Arrieta, Lackey, and Lester—walked together to the bullpen, symbolizing the team’s collective strength and shared purpose.

1:19:36
4 min

The Rain Delay & the Breaking Point

That 17-minute delay was the tears of all the fans like 108 years of tears just like no please don't do this

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
Without you guys, without everyone on that team, that puzzle isn't complete. Our relationship, it's forever.
Jake Arrieta106:31
Viral: 92.0
I came here for jewelry. I didn't come here for the haircut.
John Lackey36:51
Viral: 92.0
That 17-minute delay was the tears of all the fans like 108 years of tears just like no please don't do this
Dexter Fowler87:47
Viral: 88.0
Speakers

Host

Colin Cowherd

Guests

Jake ArrietaJohn Lackey
Topics Discussed
Championship Team Culture95%World Series Championship Memories95%Team Legacy and Brotherhood95%Veteran Leadership and Mentorship90%Team Brotherhood and Leadership90%Mental Toughness and Self-Belief88%Mental Health Awareness88%Mental Resilience in Sports85%Evolution of Baseball Analytics70%
People & Brands

Jake Arrieta

person

61xPositive

John Lackey

person

56xPositive

2016 Chicago Cubs

other

38xPositive

Colin Cowherd

person

20xNeutral

Joe Maddon

person

20xPositive

Cubs

other

14xPositive

David Ross

person

10xPositive

2016 World Series

other

10xPositive

Anthony Rizzo

person

8xPositive

Kenny Chesney

person

6xPositive

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