Hibernating Cubs
NO TEAM has won the World Series two years in a row since the Yankees in 1999 and 2000, the longest drought ever. On the heels of their first title since 1908, the Cubs became just the fourth defending champ this century to enter the All-Star break with a losing record. Despite reaching 46--45 by sweeping the Orioles over the weekend—newly acquired lefty José Quintana delivered a 12-strikeout gem in Sunday's 8--0 win—Chicago is on pace to be the fifth straight title team to miss the postseason one year later.
[This article contains a table. Please see hardcopy of magazine or PDF.]
TEAM | RECORD AFTER 91 GAMES | FINAL RECORD | WIN CHANGE FROM PREV. YEAR |
2013 Giants | 41--50 | 76--86 | -18 |
2014 Red Sox | 40--51 | 71--91 | -26 |
2015 Giants | 48--43 | 84--78 | -4 |
2016 Royals | 46--45 | 81--81 | -14 |
2017 Cubs | 46--45 | 82--80* | -21* |
* Projected finish