Synopsis
The Big 50: Chicago Cubs: The Men and Moments that Made the Chicago Cubs by Carrie Muskat is a vibrant and comprehensive exploration of the defining figures and events that have shaped the storied history of the Chicago Cubs, one of Major League Baseball’s most beloved franchises. Written by Muskat, a seasoned journalist who covered the Cubs for nearly two decades as the team’s beat writer for MLB.com, the book draws on her extensive access to players, coaches, and behind-the-scenes personnel to deliver an insider’s perspective on the team’s legacy. With an introduction by Anthony Rizzo, the Cubs’ three-time All-Star first baseman who helped lead the team to their historic 2016 World Series victory, the book celebrates the highs and lows of a franchise often characterized as the “lovable losers” due to their long championship drought and passionate fanbase. Muskat’s work, part of The Big 50 series, weaves together 50 key moments and personalities, from iconic players to unforgettable games, offering a rich tapestry of Cubs history that serves as both a nostalgic journey for longtime fans and an accessible primer for newcomers.
The book delves into the Cubs’ past with a focus on legendary figures like Ernie Banks, known as “Mr. Cub” for his infectious optimism and Hall of Fame career, and Ryne Sandberg, the standout second baseman whose grace and grit defined an era. Muskat also highlights Ron Santo, Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Javy Báez, among others, capturing their contributions to the team’s identity through vivid storytelling and exclusive interviews. Beyond the players, Muskat broadens the scope to include broadcasters like Harry Caray and Jack Brickhouse, whose voices became synonymous with Cubs fandom, and cultural touchstones like the anthem “Go Cubs Go,” which encapsulates the spirit of Wrigley Field. She incorporates perspectives from lesser-known figures, such as groundskeepers and team staff, to provide fresh angles on familiar stories, like Sammy Sosa’s home run chase or Pat Hughes’ iconic radio calls. This approach underscores the familial atmosphere surrounding the Cubs, where Muskat’s decades-long relationships with players like Rizzo and Kerry Wood, a two-time All-Star pitcher, add personal depth to the narrative.
Muskat doesn’t shy away from the Cubs’ challenges, addressing pivotal moments of heartbreak alongside their triumphs. The book revisits the infamous 1969 collapse, when the Cubs squandered a division lead, and the 2003 season, marked by both playoff promise and the lingering shadow of the “Curse of the Billy Goat.” Yet, it also celebrates the euphoric 2016 World Series, a rain-delayed, extra-inning victory that ended a 108-year title drought, with Muskat recounting the emotional weight of Game 7 through her firsthand reporting. She highlights other standout moments, such as Kerry Wood’s remarkable 20-strikeout game in 1998, a feat achieved in just his fifth career start, and the quirky brilliance of manager Joe Maddon, exemplified by his decision to have pitcher Jon Lester pinch-hit in a dramatic 2016 game against the Mariners. These stories are told with a blend of statistical insight and human interest, reflecting Muskat’s deep knowledge of the game and her knack for uncovering the personal side of baseball.
What sets The Big 50 apart is Muskat’s ability to balance the Cubs’ storied past with their modern resurgence, all while capturing the unique charm of Wrigley Field—its ivy-covered walls, manual scoreboard, and the “ballhawks” who chase home runs outside the stadium. The book acknowledges the team’s struggles with injuries, controversies, and mismanagement, particularly in the 2004 season, but frames these setbacks as part of the Cubs’ enduring appeal. Muskat’s conversational style and her intimate connections with the Cubs’ extended family—players, families, and fans alike—make the book feel like a heartfelt tribute to a franchise that represents resilience and hope. While some readers might wish for deeper analysis of certain seasons or players, the book’s strength lies in its accessibility and its ability to evoke smiles and memories, whether through the retelling of iconic moments or lesser-known anecdotes. The Big 50: Chicago Cubs is a love letter to the team and its fans, offering a dynamic, interview-driven chronicle of the men and moments that have made the Cubs a singular force in baseball history.