9 replies to this topic

[Fishin Phil]

Cubs Fact:

The Chicago Cubs won the National League pennant in 1908 because New York's Fred Merkle failed to run to second from first base on a game-winning base hit to the outfield.

[OCCubFan]

This fact reduces a really interesting and complex story to relative dullness. It also contains an error (because Merkle was forced out, it wasn't a base hit) and a misleading oversimplification (the Cubs won the pennant because they won the season-ending game, which was made possible by the Merkle game).

Phil, I'm not criticizing you; I realize you just tell us what is on the calendar. I'm just being a grinch because I got a lump of coal this morning.

I really enjoy and appreciate that you post these facts every day. It's one of the first things I check every morning after I get my cup of coffee. I certainly hope your wife got you a calendar again this year. Merry Christmas.

[King Jeff]

Ah, the Cubs calendar saves the boner for Christmas.

[OCCubFan]

Ah, the Cubs calendar saves the boner for Christmas.

Merkle gave the Cubs a gift.

[Spriggs]

Thanks for posting these Phil. I get a real kick out of them. Like OCCubfan, it's one of the first things I check out in the morning - though I am 2 hours behind Chicago time half the year. (that's an excuse for not winning a few more)

Merry Xmas, all!

[Tommy]

The Merkle Boner is what it was coined. I learned that watching Baseball by Ken Burns. Great series, but man, you could really tell that he was a New Yorker.

[Spencer]

Did you get another calendar this year, Phil?

[Fishin Phil]

Thanks for the kind words folks. Yes, Mrs. Puppet came through with another calender this year!

[fromthemitten]

I recall that the fans stormed the field or something, further complicating the situation

[Tommy]

Sorry Jeff - I totally disregarded your post nailing the boner reference! Well done, sir!

fromthemitten - you were at the game!? Outstanding!