The Chicago Cubs are turning back the clock next month, as they prepare to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the team that finally broke the curse. The 2016 World Series champions-still one of the most iconic squads in franchise history-will be honored at CubsCon, with a reunion that’s sure to stir up all kinds of nostalgia on the North Side.
While some members of that legendary core are still active around the league-Kris Bryant, Javier Báez, and Kyle Schwarber among them-plenty of familiar faces are confirmed to be in attendance. Anthony Rizzo and Kyle Hendricks, both of whom recently stepped away from the game, will be there. And they won’t be alone.
Jon Lester, Ben Zobrist, Jason Heyward, Dexter Fowler, and John Lackey are all expected to join the festivities. That’s a who’s who of the 2016 run, and the kind of lineup that brings back memories of champagne showers and parade crowds stretching down Michigan Avenue.
It’s also worth noting that both Lester and Zobrist are currently nominated for the Cubs Hall of Fame-a fitting nod to their impact not just during that title run, but on the culture of the team as a whole. Whether one or both get the call, their place in Cubs lore is already secure.
Another interesting name on the guest list: Carl Edwards Jr. The right-hander, who was a key bullpen piece during that championship season, recently signed a minor-league deal with the Mets and is looking to reinvent himself as a starter. His inclusion makes sense-he’s still active and still grinding, but his connection to 2016 remains strong.
As for the big bats who aren’t attending-Bryant, Báez, and Schwarber-there’s hope that their Cubs story isn’t entirely written yet. While it’s unlikely they’ll be back in uniform anytime soon, the door is always open for a future reunion of a different kind. Bryant and Báez haven’t quite recaptured their Chicago magic in other cities, while Schwarber has carved out a new chapter in Philadelphia, becoming a fan favorite in his own right.
Still, once a Cub, always a Cub-or at least that’s the hope.
There are, however, two notable absences that fans will likely feel: Joe Maddon and David Ross. Maddon, the manager who steered the team to that historic title, and Ross, the veteran catcher-turned-manager who succeeded him, are both sitting this one out.
Ross, who was a beloved clubhouse leader in 2016, was let go just two years ago when the Cubs pivoted to Craig Counsell. The move came swiftly and caught many off guard. Maddon, meanwhile, saw his time in Chicago end in 2019, and his relationship with the organization has cooled considerably since.
Whether those bridges can be rebuilt remains to be seen. For now, though, the focus is on the players-the ones who stepped between the lines and delivered the most unforgettable October in Cubs history.
A decade later, the memories still feel fresh. And next month at CubsCon, fans will get a chance to relive it all, with the heroes who made it happen.