Get ready for some wild and wacky Cubs news, because we're diving into the world of baseball and its unique stories!
The Cubs' Crazy Ride: A Game to Remember
In a year-end column, Jayson Stark highlighted the Cubs' incredible 13-11 game against the Diamondbacks. This match was so bizarre and exciting that it even made its way into the movie 'Knives Out'! The teams scored an insane 21 runs in just an inning and a half, with a cycle of home runs and a combined six homers. It was a game that defied all odds and left fans in awe. But here's where it gets controversial... the movie was made before the game even happened! It seems like a crazy coincidence that this game was chosen, but it just goes to show how memorable it was.
The Carson Kelly Cycle and Other Cubs Highlights
The Cubs also made history with Carson Kelly's cycle in their opening game at the temporary A's ballpark in Sacramento. This was the Cubs' first cycle in 32 years, and it happened in the very first game at the new stadium! A truly special moment for the team and their fans. And this is the part most people miss... the Cubs' front office made a brilliant move by signing Kelly and Matthew Boyd to two-year deals. It seemed like a necessity at the time, but it turned out to be a sneaky good decision.
Hall of Fame Shift and Pitcher Retirements
Speaking of pitchers, it looks like Hall of Fame voters have realized that their standards need an update. With the evolution of baseball statistics over the last 20 years, many pitchers were being left out. But a significant voting jump has occurred, and it's great news for pitchers like Cole Hamels and Jon Lester, who were on the borderline.
Two Dodgers pitchers, Joe Kelly and Andrew Heaney, have recently announced their retirements. Kelly, known for his unique take on retirement, said, "Retiring is for grandmas... Let's just say athletes stop playing." Heaney, on the other hand, offered a more traditional message, expressing his desire to spend more time with family and in his community. Both players could have continued their careers, but they chose to prioritize their personal lives, especially with Heaney passing the 10-year service mark and earning his pension and health benefits.
So, what do you think about these baseball stories? Do you agree that the Hall of Fame standards needed an update? And what about these retirements? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
