Extra Special

I'm certain that all the players feel wonderful about their division championship.  But there are a few that I think feel extra special about this season:

Cliff Floyd

The Chicago native must feel great to come back home and help the Cubs win.  He was very important to the success of the team in September when he heated up at the plate.  But the biggest reason this season has to be extra special for Floyd is the difficult time he and his family went through.  Cliff's father suffered through various medical problems and passed away.  When Cliff returned from the bereavement list and came up with some huge hits in San Francisco he said he felt his father's presence.  Well, his father will be cheering for him, and the Cubs, from the best seat in the house.

Jacque Jones

There isn't a player that has suffered more abuse from the fans than JJ.  It started last April after a slow start at the plate and throwing problems in RF (we found out that he had a shoulder injury).  Then JJ's first half of this season was especially bad at the plate, but he recieved far worse treatment from the fans than his performance deserved.  He has always hustled and given his best effort.  His smile and passion for the game is always present.  After sitting for two weeks at the end of June to clear his head, Lou Piniella told him that he was going to be the CF in the 2nd half.  The skipper told him to forget about the first half and be the player he could be in the second.  Well, JJ carried the offense in July and August and kept the Cubs from falling too far behind.  Also, his defense has been nothing short of spectacular.  I have gained tremendous respect for his perseverance and mental toughness.

Kerry Wood

Kerry has created some of the best moments in Cubs history, but it was his incredible comeback against all odds this season that I'll remember most.  In September, he has regained most of his electric stuff and helped the bullpen continue their dominance over the last four months.  He was about to give up as his shoulder continued to hurt during his many rehabilitations.  He went out one final day to throw to finally confirm that he had to either retire or try one last surgery.  Something miraculous happened on the way to retirement...he didn't feel any pain.  He took a day off and tried it again; no pain.  It is wonderful to have him be a integral part of this divisional championship team.  No one deserves it more.

The Big Three

Ron Santo, Ernie Banks, and Billy Williams.  Their greatness deserved better team results.  And they must be very excited to see this Cub team succeed.  Can you imagine their genuine joy if the Cubs won the World Series?