Cubs exec Theo Epstein surpasses Pope Francis as world’s greatest leader
By Carly Regehr
It took Theo Epstein only 43 years to be named the world’s greatest leader.
Apparently, Theo Epstein’s a better leader than the Pope.
According to a list published by Fortune, the President of Baseball Operations for the Cubs organization is the world’s greatest leader, several spots head of another sports figure, LeBron James.
Epstein led his second team to a World Series title in October 2016. The Cubs beat the Indians in seven games, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to do so. Additionally, Epstein pioneered and pieced together one of the best farm systems in MLB history. The Ricketts family, owners of the Cubs, love Epstein so much they signed him to a five-year extension in September.
Then there’s the case of LeBron James (No. 11), a brand name so attractive he left Nike salivating. Like Epstein, James also achieved a championship ring last year, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to do so, and that’s just the beginning. Not only has King James turned the Cavaliers into a relevant NBA team, but he’s working hard off the court to ensure his post-NBA career his just as memorable as his time in the league.
Next: 5 Reasons Theo Epstein's the Top GM in Sports History
Last year, Fortune’s list didn’t include any sports figures in the top 10. Nick Saban nearly cracked it at No. 11, followed closely by Stephen Curry and his coach, Steve Kerr. By dethroning Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos as No. 1 overall in 2016, Epstein makes not just an example out of Chicago, but the entire community of professional sports.