1971 - Baseball Clip - Great Moments in Cubs History - Highlights
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This episode of the Thomas Paine Podcast is a nostalgic and dramatic retrospective on the storied history of the Chicago Cubs, weaving together iconic moments from their 130+ year legacy. From the 1938 'Homer in the Gloamin'' that clinched a pennant to the 1969 season's thrilling surge led by Ernie Banks and Fergie Jenkins, the narrative captures the highs and heartbreaks that define Cubs fandom. The episode highlights legendary plays—Sam Jones's historic first Black no-hitter, Andy Pafko's controversial catch in the 1945 World Series, and Kenny Holtzman's no-hitter in 1969—while also chronicling the team's enduring resilience through decades of near-misses and fan loyalty. The emotional arc culminates in the 1970 season's collapse, where a pivotal error by Matty Alou and a late-season slide cost the Cubs another pennant, reinforcing the bittersweet reality of their long-standing 'curse'. Despite the losses, the episode celebrates the Cubs as a symbol of perseverance, passion, and the enduring magic of baseball.
The 1938 'Homer in the Gloamin'' by Gabby Hartnett remains the most iconic moment in Cubs history, clinching a pennant in dramatic fashion.
Ernie Banks' 500th career home run in 1970 symbolized the peak of a legendary career and the spirit of the 1969–70 Cubs resurgence.
The 1969 season's collapse, despite a 10-game lead, illustrates how quickly momentum can shift in baseball, especially against a rising Mets team.
Cubs history is defined by individual brilliance—no-hitters, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable plays—more than consistent team success.
Fan loyalty endures through decades of heartbreak, with 'Wait till next year' becoming a cultural mantra of resilience.
The Birth of a Legacy: Early Cubs Firsts
The episode opens with a vivid recreation of early baseball history, highlighting the Cubs' pioneering role in the sport—being the first team to be shut out, post a 1-0 shutout, and suffer a no-hit game. These milestones set the stage for the team's long and storied journey.
The 1938 'Homer in the Gloamin''
“The Pirates are a beaten ball club. The Cubs mop up the following day 10-0 in the 1938 pennant race to all intents and purposes is history.”
The 1945 Pennant and the Rise of Claude Passau
The Cubs' 1945 pennant win is chronicled, with a spotlight on Claude Passau's brilliant Game 3 no-hitter in the World Series. The episode emphasizes how this victory, though followed by a series loss, launched a new era of hope.
The 1969 Surge and the 1970 Collapse
“The Cubs are quick to capitalize on the break and win the game, but their momentum stops right there. Instead of demoralizing the Pirates, the error becomes a rallying point around which Pittsburgh builds a drive that takes them to the division title.”
Legacy of the Cubs: The Enduring Spirit
The episode closes with a tribute to the team's legacy—its legendary players, its record-breaking moments, and its unwavering fan base. Despite decades of heartbreak, the Cubs remain a symbol of hope and resilience.
“You win some, you lose some. The Cubs know. They've run the gamut. They've won ten pennants in the 20th century. They've finished last too. But they always come back.”
“Wait till next year.”
“He swings. He hits it! It's a long, long drive way, way out into left center. Lloyd Weiner is racing back. It's going, it's going, it may be, it may be, it is! Home run!”
Host
Chicago Cubs
other
Ernie Banks
person
Gabby Hartnett
person
Wrigley Field
place
Fergie Jenkins
person
Sam Jones
person
Kenny Holtzman
person
Willie Smith
person
1938 National League Pennant Race
other
Billy Williams
person
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