MLB Postseason History: Four Greatest NLCS Moments
By Matt Meffe
The Curse Continues (2003 NLCS)
The Cubs were in a terrible position in 2002, finishing with a 67-95 record. They began the 2003 season with a new manager in Dusty Baker and a new look. They then ended the 2003 campaign with the NL Central title and the best pitching staff in the National League.
Many thought 2003 would finally be the Cubs’ year, and all signs pointed to it in the playoffs. The Cubs defeated the Braves in five games in the NLDS before facing the Marlins in the NLCS. Up 3-2, the Cubs entered a controversial Game 6. In that game, with the Cubs leading, Luis Castillo hit a pop fly toward the left field seats. While left fielder Moises Alou thought he had a grab of the ball, Cubs fan Steve Bartman reached out to nab the ball himself.
This play did not cost the Cubs the game, but it certainly turned the momentum in favor of the Marlins. The Cubs would go on to lose that game and the deciding seventh game as well. This moment would add to the ongoing Cubs curse, as the Cubs would again have to wait to reach the promised land.