The 2003 Chicago Cubs enjoyed a historic breakthrough season under first-year manager Dusty Baker, winning 88 games and clinching their first National League Central division title. The campaign was headlined by a dominant young starting rotation featuring All-Stars Mark Prior and Kerry Wood, alongside the mid-season acquisitions of Aramis Ramirez and Kenny Lofton, which ignited a powerful offensive surge in September. In a major milestone for the franchise, the Cubs defeated the Atlanta Braves in the NLDS to secure their first postseason series victory since 1908, providing fans at Wrigley Field with one of the most thrilling and memorable summers in team history. The 2004 Chicago Cubs season was highlighted by several individual achievements and a competitive performance in the National League Central, finishing with an 89-73 record. Fans at Wrigley Field enjoyed the historic return of legendary pitcher Greg Maddux and a powerful offensive display from stars like Aramis Ramirez, who hit 36 home runs, and Moises Alou, who drove in 106 runs. The pitching staff remained a major strength, led by Carlos Zambrano's 16 wins and the continued dominance of Kerry Wood and Mark Prior when healthy. A seven-time All-Star and the 1998 NL MVP, Sammy Sosa is a legendary Chicago Cubs outfielder who became the first player in MLB history to record three seasons with at least 60 home runs.