1907 World Series Game 5 vs Tigers
The Cubs complete their historic sweep to claim their first World Series crown.
The final contest of the 1907 World Series stands as a crowning moment in the early history of the Chicago Cubs, marking their first championship title in franchise lore. Played at Bennett Park in Detroit, this game concluded a four-game sweep against the Detroit Tigers (excluding the series-opening tie), cementing the Cubs' status as a dominant force in the National League during the Dead Ball Era.
- Series Outcome
- Cubs win 4-0 (sweep)
- Final Score Game 5
- 2-1
- Winning Pitcher
- Jack Pfiester
- Home Run Record
- First World Series shutout by a pitcher in the series history
Lore & Background
The series concluded on October 10, 1907, with Jack Pfiester taking the mound against Detroit's ace Ed Killian. In a contest defined by defensive brilliance and low-scoring tension typical of the era, Pfiester recorded a complete-game shutout while holding the Tigers to just four hits. The Cubs' offense, anchored by Frank Chance and Solly Hofman, delivered just enough runs in the early innings to secure victory. This win completed the sweep, etching the 1907 squad into history as the first team to win consecutive World Series games without losing one.
In Their Own Story
The chill of an early autumn evening settled over Bennett Park's wooden grandstands. Jack Pfiester wiped his brow, focusing on the mound as Detroit batters approached. Down in the dugout, Frank Chance watched silently, eyes fixed on the batter's box. The crowd roared as a fly ball was snatched from the air by Solly Hofman, the final out sealing the fate of the Tigers. As the last pitch settled into the catcher's mitt, a hush fell over the Cubs' bench before erupting into cheers that echoed through the stadium, signaling the birth of a dynasty.
Reader's Guide
This historic matchup served as the finale of the 1907 World Series, pitting National League champions Chicago against American League champions Detroit. Played under the unique best-of-nine format, the occasion was significant for determining the first true world champion in the modern era and cementing a perfect run by Chicago.
The game itself showcased the defensive mastery that defined the Dead Ball Era. Jack Pfiester delivered a stellar performance, completing a shutout while managing Detroit's offense through four hits. The Cubs capitalized on early opportunities to maintain their lead through relentless defense. Frank Chance contributed significantly with his leadership and timely hitting, embodying the spirit of the team.
This victory is remembered as a defining moment in Chicago baseball history, establishing the Cubs as the premier franchise of their time. It was the first of two consecutive championships for the club (the second coming in 1908). The sweep demonstrated the team's depth and resilience, overcoming the controversy of Game 2 to finish strong. For generations of fans, this game represents a peak of excellence that has remained unmatched in terms of sustained dominance within the franchise's long timeline.
Did You Know?
- This was the first World Series sweep in MLB history (excluding the tie in Game 1).
- Solly Hofman made the final out of the series with a crucial defensive play.
- The Cubs did not lose a single game in the entire 1907 series (excluding the forfeit/tie controversy).
- Jack Pfiester's victory completed his perfect record for the World Series that year.