The Cubs are trying to make peace with their most infamous fan and a put a chapter behind them. Steve Bartman, the man who interfered with a foul ball in Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS playoffs and became the most-hated man in Chicago, received a 2016 World Series ring from the team.
Steve Bartman awarded 2016 World Series ring by Cubs
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
On Monday Cubs owner Tom Ricketts issued a statement to WGN in Chicago to explain the organization’s decision:
“On behalf of the entire Chicago Cubs organization, we are honored to present a 2016 World Series Championship Ring to Mr. Steve Bartman,” the Cubs told WGN in a statement. “We hope this provides closure on an unfortunate chapter of the story that has perpetuated throughout our quest to win a long-awaited World Series. While no gesture can fully lift the public burden he has endured for more than a decade, we felt it was important Steve knows he has been and continues to be fully embraced by this organization. After all he has sacrificed, we are proud to recognize Steve Bartman with this gift today.”
Bartman endured unbelievable abuse as a result of his mistake. He routinely received death threats, and was the subject of the 2011 ESPN 30-for-30 documentary Catching Hell, which examined his role in the Cubs series and its aftermath.
The 2016 World Series win served as catharsis for Cubs fans and finally absolved Bartman from years of abuse. Normally reclusive, he issued a statement through WGN about being given a ring:
“Although I do not consider myself worthy of such an honor, I am deeply moved and sincerely grateful to receive an official Chicago Cubs 2016 World Series Championship ring. I am fully aware of the historical significance and appreciate the symbolism the ring represents on multiple levels. My family and I will cherish it for generations. Most meaningful is the genuine outreach from the Ricketts family, on behalf of the Cubs organization and fans, signifying to me that I am welcomed back into the Cubs family and have their support going forward. I am relieved and hopeful that the saga of the 2003 foul ball incident surrounding my family and me is finally over.”
Hopefully this will finally put the incident behind everyone.
