The Chicago Cubs began the 2000s with a historic international opening series in Japan and saw a resurgence in relevance under managers Dusty Baker and Lou Piniella. The decade was highlighted by the team clinching back-to-back division titles in 2007 and 2008 for the first time in a century, led by stars like Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez, and a dominant pitching staff. In 2008, the franchise set an all-time attendance record as fans flocked to Wrigley Field to support a club that earned the best record in the National League with 97 wins.