The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees is one of the most storied and iconic matchups in Major League Baseball history.
These two historic franchises, based in the nation’s largest cities, have captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their rich traditions, legendary players, and unforgettable moments.
Despite belonging to different leagues, their occasional clashes in World Series matchups and interleague play have generated intense excitement and anticipation.
This introduction sets the stage for a captivating tale of passion, triumphs, and heartbreaks as we delve into the history and impact of the Cubs vs. Yankees rivalry on the baseball landscape.
History: Chicago Cubs Vs New York Yankees
Establishment and Early Success
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs were founded in 1870 as the Chicago White Stockings and became one of the founding members of the National League in 1876. They won the inaugural NL pennant that year.
In 1902, the team officially adopted the name “Cubs.” The Cubs enjoyed early success, winning the World Series in 1907 and 1908.
New York Yankees: The Yankees were established in 1901 as the Baltimore Orioles and later moved to New York in 1903 to become the New York Highlanders.
They adopted the name “Yankees” in 1913. The team experienced success in the 1920s and 1930s, with Babe Ruth as their star player, winning the World Series multiple times during this period.
Championship
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs’ most significant achievement came early in their history, with World Series victories in 1907 and 1908. However, since then, the team faced a prolonged championship drought that lasted until 2016, when they finally won their third World Series title after 108 years.
New York Yankees: The Yankees have been one of the most successful franchises in MLB history, with a record 27 World Series championships.
They have enjoyed periods of dynasties, such as the Ruth-Gehrig era in the 1920s-1930s, the 1950s with players like Mickey Mantle, and the late 1990s to early 2000s under the leadership of Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera.
Ballparks and Traditions
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs’ home stadium, Wrigley Field, is one of the oldest ballparks in the league and is known for its unique features like the ivy-covered outfield walls and the hand-operated scoreboard.
Wrigley Field provides a historic and nostalgic baseball experience.
New York Yankees: The Yankees have played in multiple ballparks throughout their history. From 1923 to 2008, they played at the original Yankee Stadium, which was known as “The House That Ruth Built.” In 2009, they moved to the current Yankee Stadium, which combines modern amenities with nods to the team’s storied past.
Fanbase: Chicago Cubs Vs New York Yankees
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs’ fanbase is renowned for its loyalty and resilience. Despite experiencing a long championship drought that lasted over a century, Cubs fans remained devoted and unwavering in their support.
The team’s motto, “Wait ’til next year,” became a symbol of hope and perseverance, as fans continued to fill the iconic Wrigley Field year after year.
Cubs fans are known for creating a lively and friendly atmosphere at Wrigley Field, often referred to as “The Friendly Confines.”
The ballpark’s unique charm, with its ivy-covered outfield walls, hand-operated scoreboard, and nostalgic ambiance, adds to the allure for fans and visitors alike.
The Cubs’ fanbase is deeply connected to the team’s history, embracing iconic players and moments with great affection. Legends like Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, and Sammy Sosa have left a lasting impact on the hearts of Cubs fans.
New York Yankees
The New York Yankees’ fanbase is often described as one of the most passionate and demanding in sports. The team’s long history of success, with a record 27 World Series championships, has cultivated an aura of dominance and high expectations among Yankees fans.
Yankees fans are known for their fervor and intense loyalty to the pinstripes. Yankee Stadium, both the original and current version, is considered a cathedral of baseball, and attending a game there is often seen as a bucket-list experience for baseball enthusiasts.
The “Yankees Universe” extends far beyond the city of New York, as the team has fans across the United States and around the world.
The team’s storied past, with iconic players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and more recently, Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera, has created a legacy that continues to attract fans to the franchise.
Iconic Moments: Chicago Cubs Vs New York Yankees Rivalry
The Chicago Cubs vs. New York Yankees rivalry, while not as frequent as other historical baseball rivalries, has produced several iconic moments that have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Here are some of the most memorable moments from their matchups
1932 World Series, Babe Ruth’s Called Shot
In Game 3 of the 1932 World Series at Wrigley Field, Babe Ruth, playing for the Yankees, famously gestured towards the center field bleachers just before a pitch from Cubs pitcher Charlie Root.
The next pitch resulted in Ruth hitting a home run to the exact spot he had pointed to. While there is some debate about whether Ruth was really calling his shot or simply engaging in some playful banter, the moment has become legendary in baseball history and adds to the lore of the rivalry.
1938 World Series, Yankees Sweep the Cubs
The Cubs and Yankees met again in the 1938 World Series, and the Yankees demonstrated their dominance by sweeping the Cubs in four games to win the championship.
This World Series showcased the disparity between the two teams during that era and emphasized the Yankees’ stature as one of the most successful franchises in baseball.
2003 National League Championship Series, Steve Bartman Incident
In Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS at Wrigley Field, the Cubs were just five outs away from clinching the pennant when a controversial moment occurred involving a fan named Steve Bartman.
A potential catchable foul ball hit by Luis Castillo was interfered with by Bartman, causing Cubs outfielder Moises Alou to react angrily. The Cubs’ momentum stalled, and they went on to lose Game 6 and Game 7 to the Florida Marlins, ending their World Series hopes.
This incident became a symbol of the “Curse of the Billy Goat” and added to the Cubs’ history of heartbreak.
2016 World Series, Cubs’ Historic Victory
The most significant and memorable moment in recent Cubs-Yankees rivalry history came in 2016. The Chicago Cubs finally ended their 108-year-long championship drought by defeating the Cleveland Indians in a thrilling seven-game World Series.
The Cubs’ victory was met with overwhelming joy and celebration among their fanbase and marked a historic moment in baseball history.
Interleague Play Excitement
Though the Cubs and Yankees have only occasionally met in interleague play due to their respective league affiliations (Cubs in the National League and Yankees in the American League), their matchups are always highly anticipated.
These rare meetings provide fans with a unique opportunity to see two storied franchises face off against each other in regular-season games.
Future Outlook: Chicago Cubs Vs New York Yankees
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs are in a transitional phase, having undergone a significant roster overhaul after their 2016 World Series triumph. Trading away key players has given them financial flexibility and a chance to rebuild their farm system.
The focus now is on developing young talent and identifying new core players. While this approach may result in some short-term challenges, it could lead to a promising future if their prospects pan out.
The Cubs’ loyal fanbase remains hopeful, anticipating a return to contention in the coming years.
New York Yankees
The Yankees, historically known for their pursuit of championships, continue to operate with high expectations. Their substantial payroll allows them to retain star players and attract top free agents.
However, despite their competitive roster, they face challenges in an increasingly competitive American League. The Yankees must address issues like consistency on offense, bullpen depth, and developing young talent.
They remain a formidable force, but sustaining success will depend on strategic decisions and roster adjustments.
Chicago Cubs Vs New York Yankees Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 | Oct 1-6 | Wrigley Field | New York | 4-0 (Yankees) |
| 1938 | Oct 1-8 | Wrigley Field | New York | 4-0 (Yankees) |
| 2003 | Oct 14-15 | Wrigley Field | New York | 8-7 (Yankees) |
| 2014 | May 20-22 | Yankee Stadium | New York | 3-0 (Yankees) |
| 2016 | May 6-8 | Wrigley Field | Chicago | 5-4 (Cubs) |
| 2017 | May 5-7 | Yankee Stadium | New York | 5-4 (Yankees) |
| 2019 | Jun 21-23 | Wrigley Field | New York | 10-2 (Yankees) |
| 2021 | Jun 4-6 | Yankee Stadium | Chicago | 8-5 (Cubs) |
FAQs
When was the last time the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees played against each other in a World Series?
Answer: The last time the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees faced each other in a World Series was in 1938. The Yankees swept the Cubs to win the championship.
How often do the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees play against each other in the regular season?
Answer: The Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees play against each other occasionally during the regular season due to their respective league affiliations (Cubs in the National League and Yankees in the American League).
What is the most iconic moment in the Cubs vs. Yankees rivalry?
Answer: One of the most iconic moments in the Cubs vs. Yankees rivalry is Babe Ruth’s “Called Shot” during the 1932 World Series. Ruth famously pointed towards the center field stands before hitting a home run.
Are the Cubs and Yankees considered strong rivals despite being in different leagues?
Answer: Yes, the Cubs and Yankees are considered strong rivals due to their storied histories and occasional meetings in the World Series. Though they are in different leagues, their matchups are highly anticipated by fans.
Have the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees ever played each other in interleague play?
Answer: Yes, the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees have played each other in interleague play since the introduction of interleague games in 1997. These rare matchups provide fans with a unique opportunity to see two iconic franchises face off in regular-season games.
To Recap
The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees stands as a captivating tale of two baseball giants with passionate fan bases.
Despite being in different leagues, their occasional matchups in the World Series and interleague play have produced iconic moments that have left a lasting impact on the sport.
From Babe Ruth’s “Called Shot” to the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory, these moments have enriched baseball history.
Both teams boast devoted fan bases, with the Cubs known for their unwavering loyalty and resilience, while the Yankees command a widespread following fueled by a tradition of success.
The Cubs vs. Yankees rivalry remains a celebrated and cherished part of baseball lore.
