[Nick Soulis]

Series #18
Preliminary Round



1920 Chicago Cubs
Record: 75-79
Finish: 5th in NL
Manager: Fred Mitchell
Ball Park: Cubs Park
WAR Leader: Pete Alexander (12.6)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CHC/1920.shtml

1986 Pittsburgh Pirates
Record: 64-98
Finish: 6th in NL East
Manager: Jim Leyland
Ball Park: Three Rivers Stadium
WAR Leader: Rich Rhoden (7.6)
Hall of Famers: (0)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/PIT/1986.shtml
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Another Upset As Bucs Take Cubs in Seven
Dominant Pittsburgh Pitching the Difference



Baseball is often called a timeless game, a sport where history and modernity coexist on the diamond. It's rare, however, that these two worlds collide as spectacularly as they did in the unforgettable best-of-seven playoff series between the 1920 Chicago Cubs and the 1986 Pittsburgh Pirates.

On one side, you had the Cubs, whose 1920 season had long been buried in the annals of baseball history. Sporting an underwhelming 75-79 record during the regular season, they were hardly the favorites. On the other side, the 1986 Pittsburgh Pirates, a team that had struggled to a 64-98 record during the regular season, was making an unlikely playoff appearance. The stage was set for a showdown like no other.

The series opened at Cubs Park in a matchup that would be a true test of vintage talent. Pete Alexander, a legendary pitcher from the early 20th century, took the mound for the 1920 Cubs. Facing him was Rick Rhoden of the '86 Pirates. Despite the Cubs' losing season, Alexander, in his twilight years, summoned his old magic. It was a classic pitchers' duel, but it was the Cubs who eked out a 1-0 win in a nail-biting affair. Alexander's complete-game shutout reminded everyone why he's regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in history.

The '86 Pirates came back with a vengeance in Game 2. Jim Morrison, who would later emerge as the series MVP, played a pivotal role by launching a home run, along with RJ Reynolds and Tony Pena. The Pirates cruised to a 10-4 victory, showcasing their ability to score in bunches. Morrison's bat proved to be a harbinger of things to come.

In Game 3, the 1920 Cubs showed that they weren't ready to be swept aside. Claude Hendrix pitched a masterful game, going the distance and leading the Cubs to a 5-2 win. It was an impressive display of talent, and they showed resilience from an era long gone by. Dave Robertson provided the offensive spark, going 3-4 with two RBIs.

In a pivotal Game 4, the '86 Pirates continued to assert their dominance. They defeated the 1920 Cubs with a convincing 4-0 shutout, securing a commanding 3-1 series lead. Bob Kipper twirled a gem, hurling a complete-game shutout. The game was marred by the Cubs' three errors, demonstrating that even the best of the past could falter in the face of modern competition.

Facing elimination in Game 5, the 1920 Cubs rose to the occasion. Rick Rueschel, representing the vintage Cubs, pitched a shutout to defeat the '86 Pirates, 1-0. It was a display of pure heart and vintage talent, highlighting how these old-time heroes were not to be underestimated.

Game 6, back at Cubs Park, was a sight to behold. Hippo Vaughn, a legendary figure in Cubs history, took the mound for the 1920 Cubs. Bob O'Farrell, a name that resonated with Cubs aficionados, put on a show, going 4-4 and launching a home run. The 1920 Cubs kept their hopes alive with a 7-0 win.

The series culminated in a Game 7 that will be remembered for generations to come. The '86 Pirates, led by Jim Morrison, brought their best to the field. Morrison struck again, hitting a crucial two-run home run, propelling the Pirates to a 5-3 victory. It was his second home run of the series, sealing his status as the MVP.

1986 Pittsburgh Pirates Win Series 4 Games To 3

Series MVP:

(.308, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 2 R, 1 SB, 1 3B, .912 OPS)