The 108-year drought that ended a North American sports curse

Countries & Cities · Published 16 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 2016, the Chicago Cubs finally broke a championship drought that had lasted over a century. It wasn't just a victory for a city; it was the conclusion of the longest title wait in North American sports history, ending a legendary narrative known as the Curse of the Billy Goat.

The 2016 MLB postseason served as a historic turning point for several franchises. The Chicago Cubs secured their first title in 108 years by defeating the Cleveland Indians in seven games during the World Series. The 'Curse of the Billy Goat' was broken as this triumph concluded the most extensive championship dry spell in North American athletics. Furthermore, the World Series home-field advantage was decided by the MLB All-Star Game winner for the final time during this tournament.

The path to the championship was defined by notable shifts in team dynasties and regional success. The San Francisco Giants saw their era of dominance end, as they were denied a fourth World Series title in seven years. Simultaneously, the Guardians (formerly Cleveland Indians) initiated a prosperous period, reaching the World Series for the first time since 1997 after sweeping the Boston Red Sox in the ALDS. This win also sparked a broader trend of Cleveland-based teams defeating Boston counterparts, including the NBA's Cavaliers in 2017 and 2018.

The postseason featured several historic firsts and finalities. It was the last time the Houston Astros were absent from the playoffs until 2025. The tournament also saw the final postseason game at Globe Life Park, where the Toronto Blue Jays swept the Texas Rangers. Moreover, the Cubs achieved a regulation victory in Game 4 of the NLDS against the Giants by overcoming a three-run deficit following eight innings, becoming the first squad to do so since the 1986 New York Mets.

The tournament also highlighted individual milestones and long-standing rivalries. It marked David Ortiz’s final major league game following the Indians' sweep of the Red Sox. The Dodgers beat the Nationals in the NLDS to reach the NLCS for a fourth time within eight years, while the Blue Jays won over the Orioles and Rangers to earn their second consecutive postseason spot.

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