The Cubs and the Goat
- by Chris Purdon
The following story is one that I heard while watching David Letterman. There was a recently retired umpire on the show who told the story of the Chicago Cubs and the Goat. I cannot remember the name of the umpire, but know the story.
In the glory days of the Chicago Cubs there came a farmer to Wrigley Field who wished to see a ballgame. He brought along his companion and purchased two tickets for the game. Upon trying to enter the stadium he was informed that his companion was not allowed to enter. You see, his companion was a goat. It appeared the farmer wanted to take his favourite goat to see the Cubs play.
The farmer became very annoyed, and told the attendants at the stadium that the Cubs would not win another World Series until his goat was allowed into the stadium. The attendants paid no heed to this threat and the farmer was sent away with his goat trotting along behind.
Years pass, and the Cubs enter into a period of futility. They could not win a World Series. They would come close, only to fail in the end. Finally, there comes the day when the farmer's threat is remembered, and the Cubs management, being desperate for a World Championship, invite the farmer's son and his goat to the stadium. There is a great ceremony, with the goat being allowed to walk on the field and eat some of the grass. Wouldn't you know it, that poor goat died eating the grass that day.
The farmer's son is shocked! His goat is dead! "Now," he states, "the Cubs will not win a World Series until they get lights!" As with his father, his threat is ignored, and the Cubs still do not win a World Series.
Is there truth to this story? I don't know. It is interesting to note that the Cubs came close to making it to the World Series soon after they got lights at Wrigley.
If anyone knows if this story has some credibility, let me know. I am curious to know if this is true. Regardless, it gives Cubs fans everywhere something to think about. The Curse of a Goat? Who knows?
