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6 moves that got Tribe, Cubs to the Series
- Updated: October 24, 2016
This year’s World Series matchup between the Cubs and the Indians might be the most compelling we’ve seen in a long time. In addition to the extensive World Series droughts for both clubs, we also have two rosters loaded with recognizable stars, including Kris Bryant, Francisco Lindor, Jon Lester, Corey Kluber and many more.
Yet for all the star power on the field, there are two men behind the scenes who are arguably most responsible for the two teams taking the field Tuesday for Game 1, and they are presidents of baseball operations Theo Epstein (Cubs) and Chris Antonetti (Indians). Both have set similar standards for other forward-thinking front offices to aspire to and imitate.
• World Series Game 1: Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. ET air time | 8 ET game time on FOX
Game Date Time (air time/game time) Matchup TV Gm 1 Oct. 25 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX Gm 2 Oct. 26 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX Gm 3 Oct. 28 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CLE @ CHC FOX Gm 4 Oct. 29 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CLE @ CHC FOX *Gm 5 Oct. 30 8 p.m. CLE @ CHC FOX *Gm 6 Nov. 1 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX *Gm 7 Nov. 2 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX * If necessary | All times listed ET • World Series coverageShop for postseason gear: Cubs | Indians
The two are similar in many ways, and each has stressed the importance of continuity as a main reason for their success. Epstein has relied his long-standing relationship with general manager Jed Hoyer and vice president of player development and amateur scouting Jason McLeod, a trio that helped build the Red Sox’s World Series winners in 2004 and ’07. Epstein devised a five-year plan to build a future franchise monster, and his team clinched a World Series berth almost five years to the day of his hiring (Oct. 12, 2011 to Oct. 22, 2016).
The Indians and Antonetti, who has relied on GM Mike Chernoff and assistant GM Derek Falvey (soon heading to the Twins), have stayed disciplined and true to their plan dating back to the days when they all worked under former GM Mark Shapiro. They have had an incredible amount of continuity in their front office and on their roster, with 12 players currently a part of the organization before …
