As Chicago baseball fans watch other teams in the playoffs this October, word that Boston Red Sox General Manager Theo Epstein was leaving Beantown for Wrigleyville put a spring in many Cubs fans' steps.
"We've been season ticket holders for almost 40 years and we're looking for a change and we think he can bring us to the promised land," said fan Gary Leibovitz after hearing reports that Epstein had agreed to a five-year, multi-million dollar deal with the Chicago Cubs.
Many credit Epstein with leading the Boston Red Sox to a 2004 World Series victory, the team's first in 86 years. And it's hoped he'll be able to quench the the thirst of Cubs fans who've been waiting even longer.
"He brought the Red Sox back around, so I think he definitely has what it takes," said fan Ed Weigel.
If unconfirmed reports are true, Epstein will have a tough time in Chicago. The Cubs haven't won a world series in more than a century. But as the youngest GM in Major League Baseball history, he restored one of the most storied franchises to glory twice, in 2004 and in 2007, and lifting the Curse of the Bambino.
"He ended the curse for the Red Sox years ago, so going forward the Cubs can only get better from here," said Alex Constable.
After a 103-year drought, Cubs fans now have reason to have hope despite their own rumored curse.
"As long as they allow him to spend some money and get the right players, I think with his experience we'll be fine," said Sam Silk.
Time will only tell if Epstein is the key to victory.
