Encounters of Legends: Exploring the Chicago Cubs Vs. Seattle Mariners Rivalry

The Chicago Cubs and the Seattle Mariners, two esteemed franchises in Major League Baseball, have left indelible marks on the sport’s history.

While not traditional rivals, their occasional interleague matchups have created moments of excitement and nostalgia for fans.

The Cubs’ storied past, including a historic World Series victory ending a century-long drought, has earned them a dedicated and passionate fanbase, while the Mariners have captured the hearts of the Pacific Northwest with legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr.

and memorable playoff runs. We delve into the occasional encounters between these teams, exploring their unique characteristics and iconic moments in their brief but meaningful rivalry.

History: Chicago Cubs Vs Seattle Mariners

The Chicago Cubs and the Seattle Mariners have different histories and backgrounds as two distinct franchises with unique stories in Major League Baseball (MLB).

Let’s compare their histories to understand how they have evolved over time

Establishment and Early Years

• Chicago Cubs: The Cubs were founded in 1876 and are one of the oldest professional baseball teams in existence.
  They were originally known as the Chicago White Stockings and later became the Cubs in 1903.
  The team has a rich and storied history, with notable achievements, including multiple World Series victories in the early 1900s under legendary players like Tinker, Evers, and Chance.

• Seattle Mariners: The Mariners, on the other hand, are a relatively newer franchise, established in 1977.
  As a part of MLB’s expansion, they became the first Major League team based in the Pacific Northwest.
  In their early years, the Mariners struggled to find success on the field, but they began to make an impact in the 1990s.

Postseason Appearances

• Chicago Cubs: Despite their early successes, the Cubs went through a prolonged period of struggles, often referred to as the “Curse of the Billy Goat.”
  It lasted for over 100 years from 1908, when they won their last World Series, until they finally broke the curse and won the championship in 2016. The Cubs have made several postseason appearances, including NLCS berths, in recent years.

• Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have made a few postseason appearances but have not won a World Series as of my last knowledge update in September 2021.
  However, they had notable playoff runs in the mid-1990s and early 2000s, including the aforementioned 1995 ALCS appearance.

Notable Players and Hall of Famers

• Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have been home to numerous Hall of Famers and legendary players throughout their history.
  Icons like Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, and Ron Santo have left an indelible mark on the team’s legacy.

• Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have also had their share of Hall of Fame-caliber players, with Ken Griffey Jr. being one of the most prominent.
  Griffey Jr., who played for the Mariners during two stints, is regarded as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
  Other notable Mariners include Edgar Martinez and Ichiro Suzuki.

Ballparks

• Chicago Cubs: The Cubs’ home games have been played at the historic Wrigley Field since 1916. Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic ballparks in MLB, known for its ivy-covered walls and unique atmosphere.

• Seattle Mariners: The Mariners initially played at the Kingdome and later moved to Safeco Field, which was renamed T-Mobile Park. While T-Mobile Park doesn’t have the same historical significance as Wrigley Field, it is a modern and fan-friendly stadium.

Fanbase: Chicago Cubs Vs Seattle Mariners

Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs boast one of the most passionate and devoted fanbases in sports. Despite a century-long championship drought, their unwavering loyalty endures through generations, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

Wrigley Field holds a special place in their hearts, with its ivy-covered walls and unique charm, making attending a game a bucket-list experience.

Referred to as “Cubs Nation” or the “Cubs faithful,” they fill stadiums, creating a captivating atmosphere both at home and away games.

Their widespread support extends beyond Chicago, gaining popularity across the United States and internationally, solidifying the Cubs as one of the most well-supported teams in baseball.

Their enduring dedication makes them an iconic and cherished part of the sport’s history.

Seattle Mariners

The Seattle Mariners’ fanbase possesses unique characteristics, garnering a robust following in the Pacific Northwest. Being the only MLB team in the region, they boast a devoted fanbase identifying closely with the team.

Legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr. hold a special place in their hearts, leaving an enduring impact on the franchise and the city of Seattle.

While they’ve witnessed memorable playoff runs, the lack of a World Series title has led to some frustration; however, their passion for the team remains unwavering.

Despite ups and downs, the Mariners have cultivated a dedicated and growing fandom that continues to support the team, even during rebuilding periods.

Their steadfast loyalty makes them an integral part of Seattle’s sports culture.

Iconic Moments: Chicago Cubs Vs Seattle Mariners Rivalry

There have been some memorable and notable moments when the Cubs and Mariners faced each other in interleague matchups. . .

Here are a few iconic moments

June 23, 1998 – Home Run Derby in Seattle

In a memorable interleague game at the Kingdome in Seattle, the Cubs and Mariners engaged in a high-scoring affair, with the final score being 15-12 in favor of the Mariners.

The game featured an incredible display of power hitting, with a total of 12 home runs hit between both teams. Sammy Sosa, the Cubs’ legendary slugger, hit three home runs in this game.

June 12, 2007 – Ted Lilly’s Near No-hitter

In a game at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly came incredibly close to throwing a no-hitter against the Mariners. He carried a no-hit bid into the ninth inning, but it was broken up by a leadoff double from Adrian Beltre.

Nonetheless, Lilly’s dominant performance in that game remains a memorable moment for Cubs fans.

June 23, 2016 – Kris Bryant’s Historic Game

In another interleague matchup at Wrigley Field, the Cubs defeated the Mariners with a score of 12-1. Cubs’ third baseman Kris Bryant had a historic performance, hitting three home runs and driving in six runs in the game.

It was a standout moment in his MVP-winning season and further solidified his place as one of the Cubs’ all-time greats.

Recent Performance: Chicago Cubs Vs Seattle Mariners

March 6, 2023, Peoria Sports Complex, Arizona

• Winner: Chicago Cubs

• Score: Cubs 6, Mariners 2

• Key Performances: Julian Merryweather (Cubs) delivered a strong pitching performance, allowing only one run and striking out six in six innings. Jarred Kelenic (Mariners) hit a solo homer, and Eugenio Suárez (Mariners) added an RBI single.

April 10, 2023, Wrigley Field, Chicago

• Winner: Chicago Cubs

• Score: Cubs 3, Mariners 2

• Key Moments: Cody Bellinger’s (Cubs) walk-off single in the ninth inning secured the victory. Teoscar Hernández (Mariners) had a two-run homer, while Merryweather (Cubs) contributed with a solo homer in the eighth inning.

April 13, 2023, Wrigley Field, Chicago

• Winner: Seattle Mariners

• Score: Mariners 5, Cubs 2

• Key Highlights: The Mariners’ four-run eighth inning, featuring a three-run homer by Hernández and a solo homer by Kelenic, led to victory. Bellinger (Cubs) contributed with a sacrifice fly and a solo homer.

Chicago Cubs Vs Seattle Mariners Rivalry

FAQs

Are the Chicago Cubs and the Seattle Mariners in the same league?

No, they are not. The Chicago Cubs belong to the National League (NL), while the Seattle Mariners are part of the American League (AL).

How often do the Cubs and Mariners play against each other?

The Cubs and Mariners face each other occasionally during interleague play, which occurs in specific series scheduled throughout the regular season.

What is the history of the Cubs vs. Mariners rivalry?

The Cubs vs. Mariners rivalry is not as prominent as traditional divisional rivalries due to being from different leagues. They have had sporadic matchups in interleague play, and their interactions have been relatively limited.

Which team has won more games in their head-to-head matchups?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the head-to-head record between the Cubs and Mariners has been fairly even, with both teams winning games in their interleague matchups.

Have the Cubs and Mariners ever met in the postseason?

No, the Cubs and Mariners have not faced each other in the postseason. As they belong to different leagues, they would only meet in the World Series if both teams were to advance to the championship, which hasn’t happened as of my last update in September 2021.

To Recap

While the Chicago Cubs and the Seattle Mariners have not developed a long-standing rivalry due to their different leagues, their interleague matchups have produced some memorable moments for fans and players alike.

Despite not meeting frequently, both teams have garnered passionate and devoted fan bases, creating unique atmospheres in their respective ballparks.

The Cubs’ historical significance and enduring loyalty have made them a symbol of resilience and hope for their supporters, while the Mariners’ regional appeal and appreciation for legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr.

have solidified their place in the hearts of Pacific Northwest fans. As their journeys continue, the occasional meetings between these teams promise excitement and the potential for more iconic moments in the future.