Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cubs fans still care about beating the Cardinals and Brewers like they used to?
Cubs fans' attitudes toward rivalries have changed since winning the World Series in 2016. While the rivalries still exist, beating division rivals isn't as important anymore because fans now have bigger goals and expect World Series titles rather than just hoping to finish ahead of their rivals.
Why don't Cubs vs White Sox games feel as exciting as they used to?
The first Cubs-White Sox series at Wrigley in 2018 was one of the most under-promoted and under-hyped in recent memory. The Cubs were so far ahead of the Sox both on and off the field that the games didn't really matter, reducing the traditional crosstown rivalry buzz.
How have Cubs fans' expectations changed since winning the World Series?
Cubs fans have become greedier and smarter after three straight NLCS appearances and a World Series title. Their mentality has shifted from hoping to beat rivals like the Cardinals to expecting World Series championships, making regular season rivalries feel less significant.
Do the Cubs players themselves treat rivalry games differently now?
The Cubs team appears to treat rivalry games as simply another game in their marathon season. These games are just seen as one more team in the way of their ultimate goal of winning a World Series title.
Why do Bears-Packers games still feel more important than Cubs rivalries?
The Bears-Packers rivalry still feels crucial because Bears fans have had nothing else to hope for over the last 30+ years without a Super Bowl title since 1985. The two games against Green Bay are the closest thing to a Super Bowl the Bears get to play each year, unlike the Cubs who now regularly compete for championships.