Five years ago, the Cubs embarked on a historic journey that will go down as one of the most impactful seasons in professional sports.

Throughout 2021, we’re taking a look back at some of the best moments from the incredible 2016 campaign.

Next up: World Series Game 6 – Cubs force Game 7!

Cleveland was rocking before Game 6. The Indians had the opportunity to clinch their first World Series since 1948 in front of their hometown fans.

Three batters in, the Cubs were rocking Cleveland.

Kris Bryant homered on an 0-2 curveball from Cleveland starter Josh Tomlin to give the Cubs an early 1-0 lead. They plated two more after miscommunication between Lonnie Chisenhall and Tyler Naquin led to a 2-run double from Addison Russell.

In the top of the third Addison Russell put the game out of reach with a grand slam off reliever Dan Otero, stretching the Cubs lead to 7-0 and all but ensuring there would be a Game 7.

Jake Arrieta continued his strong postseason going 5.2 innings and striking out 9. That was the most strikeouts by a Cubs pitcher in a game since Orval Overall struck out 10 in the 1908 World Series.

Anthony Rizzo hit his first home run of the World Series in the 9^th, a 2-run shot and a preview of what was coming the next day:

Game. Seven.

Fun Facts

• Arrieta became the Cubs postseason strikeout leader in this game
• He’s still the postseason strikeout leader with 66 Ks
• Joe West was the home plate umpire for this game, the only time he was behind the plate for a Cubs postseason game.
• Bryzzo went a combined 7-for-10 with 2 HR and 3 RBI