30 greatest World Series in MLB history
29. Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago Cubs, 1945
In 1945, the Chicago Cubs finally appeared ready to put an end to a World Series title drought that dated back to 1908.
After posting a 98-56 record during the regular season, they entered the Fall Classic as the clearcut favorite over the Detroit Tigers. And through the first three games, they looked the part.
The series was set up in a 3-4 format instead of 2-3-2 due to World War II, so Detroit hosted the first three games. The Cubs went 2-1 on the road to start the series, shutting out the Tigers twice. They returned home needing just two wins in four games to close out the World Series.
In Game 4, the momentum would shift, and the infamous “Curse of the Billy Goat” would begin.
Legend has it that local bar owner Billy Sianis brought his pet goat to the stadium, but was asked to leave. Sianis was infuriated, and claimed that the Cubs would never win another World Series.
Chicago went on to lose three out of the next four games at Wrigley Field, and have yet to return to the World Series since. The Cubs have not won a title in 107 years, the longest championship drought in all of professional sports.
Next: 28. Cleveland Indians vs. Atlanta Braves, 1995