Chicago Cubs History Unpacked: March 23

Key Moments in Cubs History: Trades, Rules, and Legacy

March 23 has seen its fair share of significant moments in Chicago Cubs history, from trades that shaped the team’s future to groundbreaking events in baseball and beyond. Let’s take a look at some of the important moments that have marked this date in Cubs history.

1938 – A Big Move in the Farm System

In 1938, Commissioner Landis freed 74 St. Louis Cardinals minor leaguers, including Pete Reiser, in a bid to halt the farm system cover-up. Brooklyn Dodgers GM Larry MacPhail and St. Louis Cardinals GM Branch Rickey made a deal to take Reiser in and then trade him back later. However, Reiser’s exceptional ability quickly became apparent, and he was no longer someone who could be hidden away in the minors.

This event was a significant part of baseball’s changing landscape, where teams were beginning to understand the true value of their farm systems, a concept that would later revolutionize baseball recruitment and talent development.

1968 – The “Lip Pass” Incident

In 1968, during a spring training game, Chicago Cubs pitcher Jim Ellis invented what would be known as the “Lip Pass”. On a 3-1 count, Ellis went to his mouth to issue an intentional walk, which led to a warning from Cubs manager Leo Durocher. Durocher, who opposed the newly enforced rule preventing pitchers from going to their mouths while on the rubber, was told not to repeat the action or face a fine. He didn’t repeat it, and in the end, the rule was relaxed. This quirky moment marked an important chapter in the game’s history regarding pitchers’ behavior on the mound.

1974 – Cubs Trade All-Star Jim Hickman

In 1974, the Cubs traded All-Star outfielder Jim Hickman to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for pitcher Scipio Spinks. While Hickman had provided solid contributions to the Cubs, the trade was a reflection of the team’s need for more pitching depth, a move that would influence the Cubs’ roster decisions in the years to come.

2000 – Cubs Acquire Gary Matthews Jr.

In 2000, the Cubs sent relief pitcher Rodney Myers to the San Diego Padres in exchange for outfielder Gary Matthews Jr.. Matthews, known for his speed and defensive skills, had a productive time with the Cubs, though he is most remembered for his work with other teams in his career. The deal marked one of the many moves in the Cubs’ ongoing effort to strengthen their lineup during the early 2000s.

2015 – Louisville Slugger Brand Sells to Wilson Sporting Goods

In 2015, Hillerich & Bradsby, the company behind the iconic Louisville Slugger baseball bat, sold the brand to Wilson Sporting Goods for $70 million. The Louisville Slugger Museum continued to operate, and the bats were still produced in Louisville, KY, but the deal marked the end of an era for the legendary bat brand that has been a staple in the game of baseball for over 130 years.

2016 – Matt Bush Makes a Stellar Return

In 2016, former Number One pick in the 2004 MLB draft, Matt Bush, made his first professional pitching appearance after serving 51 months in prison for driving under the influence and causing grievous bodily injury. In his return, he flashed a fastball that hit 98 mph and a devastating curveball, pitching two hitless innings for the Texas Rangers against the Cubs. His redemption story became a feel-good moment for baseball fans, showing how second chances can lead to a fresh start.

2018 – “Save America’s Pastime Act” and MLB Labor Changes

In 2018, the Save America’s Pastime Act became part of a $1.3 trillion spending bill passed by Congress, which exempted Major League Baseball from certain provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The law meant that minor league players would no longer be paid for spring training, off-season workouts, or overtime during the season. The law was passed after MLB lobbying to preempt a lawsuit filed by former minor league player Garrett Broshuis. This controversial act significantly impacted the livelihood of minor leaguers, and the debate continues to spark conversations about fair treatment and compensation in professional baseball.

Cubs Birthdays: Celebrating Cubs Legends

March 23 also marks the birthdays of several notable figures in Cubs history, including Peaches Graham, Cy Slapnicka, Johnny Moore, Pat Bourque, Mike Remlinger, and Joel Peralta. These individuals made contributions to the Cubs organization and are remembered by fans for their roles in shaping the team’s legacy over the years.

Other Historical Events on March 23

While the Cubs have their own rich history on this day, March 23 has seen significant events in global history as well. Here are some notable moments:

• 1066 – The 18th recorded perihelion passage of Halley’s Comet.
• 1775 – Patrick Henry famously declared, “Give me liberty or give me death” in a speech advocating for Virginia’s support in the U.S. Revolutionary War.
• 1857 – Elisha Otis installs the first successful elevator at 488 Broadway, New York City.
• 1901 – Dame Nellie Melba reveals the secret of her now-famous toast.