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Sammy Linebaugh ReportingThe Chicago Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908. Utah is home to one of the ball club's ex-managers, and today KSL spoke with Herman Franks about his former club's chances this year.
It's the time of year baseball fans stand around the water cooler, make predictions, add up stats, and speculate on which two teams will earn the golden ticket in the face off in the final series. But few know the game like Herman Franks.
Herman Franks, Baseball Hall of Famer: "There's Willie Mays -- what we were talking about at that time, I don't know. And here is he is, why, he's just the greatest ball player I ever saw."
Franks spent nearly half a century living major league baseball as a player, coach and manager. His basement is a treasure trove of memorabilia and moments.
Herman Franks, Baseball Hall of Famer: "They talk about the shot heard around the world in the 51 playoff with Brooklyn."
Franks was there as a coach for the Dodgers when Bobby Thompson hit the game-winning home run that is still considered one of the greatest plays in baseball history.
But what might be most stunning of all this season is if his Cubs -- the team he managed before retiring in 79, the club that hasn't won a world series in 95 years -- this time takes it all.
Herman Franks, Baseball Hall of Famer: "I'm just tickled to death that they would get in one."
And having spent decades right there on the dirt, he says he's content to catch the games from home for now.
Herman Franks, Baseball Hall of Famer: "If the Cubs pull this off? I'd definitely go. In fact I just talked to them the other day. I said if the Cubs win it, save me tickets."
What a ticket that will be.
