1909 T206 Jimmy Slagle

The story goes that on Oct. 6, 1945, the owner of the Billy Goat Tavern bought two tickets to Game 4 of the World Series at Wrigley Field; one for himself and the other for his pet goat. The owner was let in but not his four-legged friend.

The goat's owner was incensed, declaring that the Cubs would never win again. And so it has been, the Cubs have not won a World Series since. It's a good story and it may be true. But I have a different thought as to why the Chicago side hasn't won a world title since 1908.

The answer: Jimmy Slagle.

You see, Jimmy Slagle played center field for the Cubs in 1907 and 1908. The Cubs were World Champions both years, their only Series wins in their history. In 1909, Slagle was relegated to the minor league Baltimore Orioles. The Cubs finished second to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the NL.

Coincidence? You be the judge.

I think I may be on to something.