In a stunning announcement just 30 minutes ago, Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell unveiled plans for a groundbreaking event that has sent waves of excitement through the Cubs fanbase and the baseball world. Dubbed the “Cubs Legends Show,” this historic celebration will bring together legendary players from the team’s storied past, with a special focus on honoring those who have left an indelible mark on Wrigley Field and the city of Chicago. The announcement, made at a press conference at Wrigley Field, promises an unforgettable spectacle that will celebrate the Cubs’ rich history while uniting generations of fans.
A Vision for Unity and Celebration
Craig Counsell, now in his second year as Cubs manager, took to the podium with a palpable sense of enthusiasm. “This is about honoring the Chicago Cubs, our fans, and the legends who made this franchise what it is today,” Counsell said. “The Cubs Legends Show will be a one-of-a-kind event, a chance to bring back the players who defined eras, broke barriers, and gave us moments we’ll never forget. We’re inviting every living legend, and we’re especially excited to highlight those who embodied the spirit of this team and this city.”
While Counsell did not reveal the full list of participants, he hinted that the event would feature a “who’s who” of Cubs icons, spanning multiple decades. The announcement comes at a time when the Cubs are enjoying a strong 2025 season, with a 7-4 record early in the campaign and high expectations for a playoff run. The timing of the event suggests Counsell’s desire to galvanize the fanbase and connect the current roster with the team’s illustrious past.
The Cubs’ Storied Legacy
The Chicago Cubs, one of Major League Baseball’s oldest and most beloved franchises, have a history that stretches back to 1876. Wrigley Field, the team’s home since 1914, is the second-oldest ballpark in the majors, trailing only Fenway Park. Over the years, the Cubs have produced some of baseball’s most iconic figures, from Ernie Banks and Ryne Sandberg to Sammy Sosa and Anthony Rizzo. The team’s 2016 World Series victory, which ended a 108-year championship drought, remains one of the most celebrated moments in sports history.
Counsell’s announcement taps into this deep well of nostalgia and pride. “Wrigley Field is more than a ballpark—it’s a cathedral of baseball,” he said. “The players who’ve worn the Cubs uniform have created memories that live in the hearts of millions. This show is our way of saying thank you to them and to the fans who’ve stood by us through thick and thin.”
What to Expect from the Cubs Legends Show
While details of the event are still emerging, Counsell provided a tantalizing glimpse into what fans can expect. The Cubs Legends Show is slated to take place later this season, potentially during a homestand in late summer or early fall. The event will be a multi-day celebration, featuring on-field ceremonies, fan meet-and-greets, and a special exhibition game pitting Cubs legends against a yet-to-be-announced opponent.
The highlight of the show will be a tribute to Cubs legends who have not only excelled on the field but also embodied the team’s values of resilience, grit, and community. Counsell specifically mentioned the inclusion of players who “changed the game” and “represented Chicago with pride.” Speculation is already swirling about potential attendees, with names like Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins, and more recent stars like Kris Bryant and Jon Lester topping fans’ wish lists.
The event will also include a nod to the 2016 World Series team, which remains a touchstone for Cubs fans. “That 2016 team showed the world what the Cubs are all about,” Counsell said. “We’re going to make sure those players are front and center in this celebration.”
Counsell’s Personal Connection
For Counsell, the Cubs Legends Show is a deeply personal project. A Wisconsin native who grew up a Cubs fan, Counsell spent nine seasons as manager of the Milwaukee Brewers before joining Chicago in 2023, making him the highest-paid manager in MLB history at the time. His transition to the Cubs was a homecoming of sorts, and he has often spoken about his admiration for the team’s history and its passionate fanbase.
“I grew up watching Cubs games on WGN, dreaming of what it would be like to step onto Wrigley Field,” Counsell shared. “To now be in a position to bring together the players who inspired me and so many others—it’s an honor I don’t take lightly.”
Counsell’s reputation as a players’ manager has also fueled excitement for the event. His ability to connect with both veterans and young players has been a hallmark of his tenure, and he emphasized that the Legends Show will be a collaborative effort. “We’re reaching out to every living Cubs legend, and the response has been overwhelming,” he said. “These players love this team and this city as much as the fans do.”
A Boost for the 2025 Season
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the Cubs, who are off to a strong start in 2025. Despite early setbacks, including a 0-2 start in the Tokyo Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team has shown resilience, exemplified by a wild 13-11 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on April 18, where they overcame a 10-run inning to secure the win. Counsell’s leadership has been praised, with analysts noting his ability to instill grit and determination in his players.
The Cubs Legends Show is poised to further energize the team and its fans. “This is about building momentum,” Counsell said. “We’re playing for something bigger than ourselves this season, and celebrating our history is a way to remind everyone what it means to be a Cub.”
Community and Charity Focus
In addition to celebrating the team’s on-field achievements, the Cubs Legends Show will have a strong community focus. Counsell announced that a portion of the proceeds from the event will go to Cubs Charities, which supports youth sports, education, and health initiatives in Chicago. The event will also include outreach programs, such as youth baseball clinics led by Cubs legends, to inspire the next generation of players.
“We want this to be more than just a show,” Counsell said. “It’s about giving back to the city that’s given so much to this team.”
Fan Reaction and Anticipation
News of the Cubs Legends Show has already sparked a frenzy on social media, with fans flooding platforms like X with speculation about which players will attend and what moments will be highlighted. “This is going to be epic,” one fan posted. “Imagine seeing Ryno, Santo, and Rizzo all in one place!” Another wrote, “Counsell gets it. This is what Cubs baseball is all about.”
The announcement has also reignited discussions about welcoming back controversial figures like Sammy Sosa, whose home run exploits in the late 1990s captivated the nation but whose legacy has been complicated by steroid allegations. Counsell remained tight-lipped about specific invitees but emphasized inclusivity. “We’re casting a wide net,” he said. “This is about celebrating everyone who’s contributed to the Cubs’ story.”
Looking Ahead
As the Cubs prepare for their next series and continue their push for the playoffs, the Cubs Legends Show looms as a defining moment of the 2025 season. For Craig Counsell, it’s an opportunity to cement his legacy as a manager who not only wins games but also honors the past while building for the future.
“This is going to be a love letter to Cubs fans,” Counsell concluded. “We’re going to make Wrigley Field shake with pride and joy.”
Stay tuned for more details as the Cubs finalize plans for this historic event. For now, Chicago is buzzing with anticipation, ready to welcome back its legends and celebrate the enduring magic of Cubs baseball.