For 108 years, the Chicago Cubs and their fans endured heartbreak, near misses, and what felt like an unshakable curse – the “curse of the billy goat.” The team hadn’t won a World Series since 1908, which tagged along all the superstitions. That plus generations of fans longing for a win. Then in 2016, the history was rewritten. The Chicago Cubs were in the run for a glorious post-season.

Finally fighting off the Cleveland Guardians in extra innings in dramatic Game 7, they ended up winning. A key part of that championship team was Dexter Fowler – both on and off the mound. He was stellar and famously led off Game 7 with a home run – the first player to do so in a World Series Game 7! Fowler’s leadership and playmaking are still what people talk about. Yet, it was not MLB but the NBA that played a small but significant role in ensuring Fowler remained a Cub.

The reason Fowler returned to the Chicago Cubs 

When Dexter Fowler hit his free agency after 2015, his return to Chicago was shaky. Many believed he would step into Baltimore. But the Cubs made a late push and brought him back. But that’s not the complete story. According to Fowler, another factor, a person, was involved – none other than 4x champion basketball coach Steve Kerr. He convinced Fowler to head back.

Recalling the incident, Fowler mentioned that he met Steve Kerr at a PT place. He added, “Steve Kerr was down rehabbing from neck surgery at a PT place I used to go to. One of the doctors told me Kerr wanted a picture with me. So I go in, we start talking, and he tells me, ‘Man, I love you with the Cubs. You guys were so close last year. If you win, trust me—Chicago is the best city to win in.”

This message got stuck with Fowler and hence, his return to Chicago. Well, the rest is history. The Chicago Cubs’ magical season ended with them in a championship parade. Every little push mattered for the franchise that waited over a century for a title, including an unexpected one from an NBA coach! But now the big question is when will they be back in the championship run? To be honest, 2025 seems good for them.

Are the Cubs finally back? Here’s why 2025 could be their year

The Chicago Cubs were one of the dominant teams from 2015 to 2018. But since their last postseason win in 2017, things started getting rough. They have been knocked out in the wild-card round or missed the playoffs entirely in five of the last six years. Could 2025 turn things turn around?

The Cubs have gone all in this offseason. They landed right fielder Kyle Tucker, bringing a legit offense boost. Then they added Ryan Pressly from the Astros and Eli Morgan from the Guardians. They have turned the spots they lacked to serious strength. But the bullpen still needs something; enter – Alex Bregman. Yes, Chicago is seriously in the mix for the Bregman sweepstakes. Well, why not! He is still in the market.

But what if they fail to land him? Matt Shaw is waiting and could take over. And as far as how good the team is for winning this season – according to PECOTA, they are expected to win 90 games. They are even anticipated to take the NL Central title. They also have the fifth-best odds to win the World Series. But no matter what, it won’t be easy. (Hello, the Dodgers superteam).

Do you think they are a more beefed-up team than last year? Share your thoughts with us!