A Cunning Kind of Play: The Cubs - Giants Rivalry, 1876-1932

The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the New York Giants--the National League's greatest teams in its early days--took hold with the founding of the league in 1876. Between the two bitter rivals there were nine first-second finishes, eight second-third finishes, and 30 out of a possible 65 championships in the league's first six decades. Their games often showcased match-ups between baseball's most talented and toughest players and often had playoff implications.

This history of the rivalry begins coverage in 1876 (when the Cubs won the first NL championship) and goes through 1932 (when John McGraw stepped down as manager of the Giants). All of the many great personalities, player match-ups, streaks, and pennant races are included.

Warren N. Wilbert, a veteran baseball historian and SABR member, is the author of numerous books about baseball. He lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana.