5 greatest comebacks in recent MLB postseason history

If the Chicago Cubs overcome a 3-1 deficit, where could they fit in with the greatest comebacks in MLB postseason history?

The 2016 MLB postseason could wrap up on Sunday night as the Cleveland Indians lead the Chicago Cubs 3-1 in the World Series. One more win will give the Indians their first World Series victory since 1948, and would keep the Cubs’ all-time losing streak ongoing.

However, the odds have been overcome before in the MLB playoffs. When teams have seemed down and out, they find a way to edge out a victory, keep their title hopes alive, and end up winning it all. The Cubs have a long way to get to that point, but the series isn’t over yet. If they can beat the Indians, though, where would they fit in with the five greatest comebacks in MLB postseason history?

5. 1979 World Series – Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Baltimore Orioles

The 1970s had been the golden age of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. They dominated the decade, winning 90-plus games six times, and earning the “We Are Family” nickname. A 98-win season would come in 1979, which also happened to feature a memorable World Series ride for the Bucs.

The Baltimore Orioles, another team who rode strong in the 1970s, were their opponents. They had pitcher Jim Palmer, top hitter Eddie Murray, and legendary manager Earl Weaver leading them. It would seem to be a difficult task to pull off, but the Pirates had other plans.

After Game 4, the Orioles held a 3-1 lead. If Pittsburgh were to come back, they only had one game left at Three Rivers Stadium. The other two would be in Baltimore. However, this didn’t stop the Pirates, who won Game 5 decisively, beat Palmer in Game 6, and won 4-1 in Game 7 to become World Series champions. They were led by Willie Stargell’s go-ahead home run in the final game, which had been all they needed to stand tall.

It’s one of the older comebacks, but the battle between these two top teams of the 1970s can’t be forgotten.