The Iowa Cubs
The Iowa Cubs, fondly known as the 'I-Cubs', are a beacon of Baseball in the American heartland. Established in 1969, they are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and have been since 1981. The I-Cubs have had several names in the past, including the Iowa Oaks under the affiliation of the White Sox and the Athletics, before embracing their current name and identity in 1982.
The team calls Principal Park their home, a stadium nestled at the confluence of the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. Boasting a seating capacity of 11,000, the stadium often reverberates with cheers from the passionate I-Cubs fans, creating an atmosphere that is electric and unparalleled.
Over the years, the I-Cubs have enjoyed a rich playoff history. Their most prestigious achievement came in 1993 when they clinched the American Association Championship. The taste of victory has only intensified their hunger, and the team continues to strive for more glory.
As with any sports franchise, the I-Cubs have their fair share of rivalries. The most notable is perhaps with the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The two teams have shared numerous heated encounters, further adding to the rich tapestry of Minor League Baseball.
What makes the I-Cubs particularly interesting is their role in shaping future Major League Baseball's stars. They have been a vital stepping stone for numerous players who have gone on to make a significant impact in the major leagues. Notable alumni include Greg Maddux, Mark Grace, and Kris Bryant. The I-Cubs provide an opportunity for these players to hone their skills and prepare for the big leagues, and it's a thrill for the fans to witness these future stars in action.
In conclusion, the Iowa Cubs are more than just a baseball team; they are a significant part of the community, a symbol of Iowa's rich baseball culture, and a testament to the enduring appeal of America's pastime. From their humble beginnings to their current standing, the I-Cubs have consistently offered thrilling baseball and cultivated a deep-rooted love for the sport within their fans.
Iowa Cubs Facts
- The Iowa Cubs play their home games at Principal Park, located in Des Moines, Iowa. The stadium has a seating capacity of around 11,500 and offers beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
- In 1997, the Iowa Cubs moved from the American Association to the Pacific Coast League (PCL). The PCL is one of the highest levels of MiLB and features teams from the western United States and the Pacific Rim. In its heyday, this league saw the talents of top stars like Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams.
- The team’s sole title so far is the 1993 American Association championship.
- Triple-A teams like the Iowa Cubs play a crucial role in player development for their MLB parent club. It serves as a stepping stone for young prospects, and a place for veterans to continue honing their skills or getting back in the game after recovering from injuries.
- As a Triple-A team, the Iowa Cubs serve as a direct feeder club to the Chicago Cubs. Players can be promoted from Iowa to Chicago or demoted back down, depending on their performance and the needs of the MLB team.
- Many notable players have spent time with the Iowa Cubs before making it to the Major Leagues. Some of them have gone on to have successful careers in MLB, including several players from the iconic 2016 team that brought in the Chicago Cubs World Series victory, such as Kris Bryant, Javier Báez, and Kyle Schwarber.
