CLEVELAND — The Chicago Cubs won their first World Series championship since 1908 when Ben Zobrist hit a go-ahead double in the 10th inning, beating the Cleveland Indians 8-7 in a thrilling Game 7 delayed by rain early Thursday.

Lovable losers for generations, the Cubs nearly let this one get away, too. All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman blew a three-run lead with two outs in the eighth when Rajai Davis hit a tying homer.

But the Cubs, after tormenting their fans one more time, came right back after a 17-minute rain delay before the top of the 10th and scored twice. Davis hit an RBI single with two outs in the bottom half, but Mike Montgomery got the final out.

Manager Joe Maddon's team halted the longest title drought in baseball, becoming the first club to overcome a 3-1 Series deficit since the 1985 Kansas City Royals.

Cleveland was trying to win its first crown since 1948, but lost the last two games at home.

World Series favorites since spring training, Chicago led the majors with 103 wins this season. The Cubs then ended more than a century of misery for their loyal fans. </s> CLEVELAND -- The Chicago Cubs ended America's longest sports title drought in dramatic fashion Thursday morning, defeating the Cleveland Indians 8-7 in a 10-inning thriller to capture their first World Series crown since 1908.

The Cubs captured Major League Baseball's best-of-seven final 4-3, concluding what had been an iconic 107-year run of failure, frustration and futility. But it came only after they squandered a four-run lead and looked ready several times for another heartbreaking stumble.

Ben Zobrist doubled in the go-ahead run and Miguel Montero added a bases-loaded single for an 8-6 Cubs lead in the 10th inning, which followed a 17-minute rain delay after regulation play ended in a 6-6 deadlock.

Rajai Davis, whose two-run home run in the eighth equalized for Cleveland, singled in a run in the 10th for the Indians. But Michael Martinez grounded to third for the final out and a celebration more than a century in the making ensued. </s> Cleveland Indians fan Kelli Donnelly reacts during a Game 5 watch party of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

Chicago Cubs' Kris Bryant, left, celebrates with Jake Arrieta after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Fans celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago Cubs Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

The Chicago Cubs Chicago celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Chicago Cubs' Willson Contreras, left, Aroldis Chapman and Anthony Rizzo celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Singer Eddie Vedder sings "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during Game Five of the 2016 World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Singer Eddie Vedder sings "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during Game Five of the 2016 World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Jose Ramirez #11 of the Cleveland Indians strikes out to end the game against the Chicago Cubs in Game Five of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Javier Baez, left, and Ben Zobrist of the Chicago Cubs celebrate after beating the Cleveland Indians 3-2 in Game Five of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman and catcher Willson Contreras celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs slides into second base for a double in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians in Game 5 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs' Addison Russell hits a RBI single against the Cleveland Indians during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Cleveland Indians' Jose Ramirez celebrates his home run during the second inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Chicago Cubs on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

A Chicago Cubs fan watches during the first inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A fan holds up a sign before Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago Cubs on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

The Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs play in Game 5 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

CHICAGO — Pushed to the brink of elimination in their first World Series appearance in 71 years, the Chicago Cubs aren’t going down without a fight.

Dropping the first two games at Wrigley Field meant it was do-or-die time in the third and final game of the series in Chicago, and the Cubs needed a handful of season-saving performances to send the Fall Classic back to Ohio and thwart the Cleveland Indians’ attempt to finish them off.

From three players in particular, that’s exactly what they got Sunday night, but it was far from easy and Cubs fans, 41,711 of the them, had to deal with another cliffhanger.

In the end, the Cubs earned their first World Series win at Wrigley Field since Oct. 8, 1945, and it was Jon Lester, Kris Bryant and Aroldis Chapman leading them to a season-extending 3-2 victory.

Lester provided the steadiness, limiting the Indians to two runs over six innings.

The Cubs did all their scoring during a three-run fourth inning, and it was Bryant providing the pop, breaking the ice with a solo home run to become the second-youngest player in franchise history to homer in a World Series game.

Finally, Chapman provided the (sigh of) relief, doing his best Andrew Miller impersonation when Cubs manager Joe Maddon brought him into the game in the seventh inning and asked the flame-throwing lefty to get the final eight outs of the ball game, which took a season-high 42 pitches to do.

All of that adds up to the Indians now clinging to a 3-2 series lead, as the scene will now shift back to Cleveland for Game 6 at Progressive Field on Tuesday night and, potentially, Game 7 on Wednesday.

While the Cubs still have hope, the odds are not in their favour.

Of the previous 46 teams that have jumped out to a 3-1 lead in the World Series, 40 of them have gone on to win.

On a chilly, late October night with their season on the line, Lester immediately got the crowd into the game, striking out the side in the top of the first.

He used three different pitches to get the job done, too, getting Rajai Davis with a changeup, Jason Kipnis with a cutter, and Francisco Lindor with a curveball, walking off the field to a roar from the Wrigley faithful.

Lester continued to cruise in the second inning, inducing a pair of weak pop ups, until Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez changed all that.

On the second pitch of the at-bat, Lester grooved a four-seam fastball and Ramirez deposited it in the left field bleachers for a 1-0 lead.

It looked like that solo home run would be big, as Indians starter Trevor Bauer was rolling, but along came the bottom of the fourth inning.

Bryant, the slugging all-star third baseman, walked to the plate and ripped a line-drive homer to left centre field to quickly tie the game, but the Cubs were far from done.

Anthony Rizzo came within a couple feet of making it back-to-back jacks, hitting a double off the right field wall.

Ben Zobrist then singled — the first time all series that the Cubs strung together three straight hits — to set up runners at first and third for shortstop Addison Russell, who promptly chopped an infield single down the third base line, scoring Rizzo to give the Cubs a 2-1 lead.

After Jason Heyward struck out, second baseman Javier Baez laid down a bunt for a single to load the bases up for catcher David Ross.

With many wondering if this was a spot Maddon would turn to Kyle Schwarber for a big, run producing knock, the Cubs weren’t about to throw Lester off his game by yanking his personal catcher in the fourth inning.

Ross ended up delivering, but not in the dramatic fashion many were envisioning with Schwarber at the plate, hitting a sacrifice fly to left field to make it a two-run advantage heading to the fifth inning.

It would prove to be a key run.

Bauer needed 29 pitches to get through the inning, leaving him at 74 through four innings, yet another inefficient start for the 25-year-old right-hander.

In each of his four post-season starts this month, Bauer failed to go five innings — the first pitcher in post-season history to do that — and Indians manager Terry Francona decided he had seen enough, turning to righty Mike Clevinger in the bottom of the fifth.

Clevinger made it through an inning unscathed, and the Indians were able to cut the Cubs’ lead to 3-2 in the top of the sixth.

Davis singled with one out, before swiping second on Lester and being driven in on a Lindor base hit.

Thanks to Lester’s yips and inability to throw over to first base, everyone in the building expected the quick Lindor to easily cruise into second, but Ross had other ideas, gunning down the Indians shortstop to end the inning.

Lester, who gave up four hits, struck out five and didn’t walk anybody, was done after six innings and 90 pitches.

It was Lester’s fifth-career World Series start, tying him with teammate John Lackey for most among active pitchers, and it helped the Cubs live to see another day. </s> Cleveland Indians fan Kelli Donnelly reacts during a Game 5 watch party of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

Chicago Cubs' Kris Bryant, left, celebrates with Jake Arrieta after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Fans celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago Cubs Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

The Chicago Cubs Chicago celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Chicago Cubs' Willson Contreras, left, Aroldis Chapman and Anthony Rizzo celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Singer Eddie Vedder sings "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during Game Five of the 2016 World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Singer Eddie Vedder sings "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during Game Five of the 2016 World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Jose Ramirez #11 of the Cleveland Indians strikes out to end the game against the Chicago Cubs in Game Five of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Javier Baez, left, and Ben Zobrist of the Chicago Cubs celebrate after beating the Cleveland Indians 3-2 in Game Five of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman and catcher Willson Contreras celebrate after Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. The Cubs won 3-2 as the Indians lead the series 3-2. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs slides into second base for a double in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians in Game 5 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs' Addison Russell hits a RBI single against the Cleveland Indians during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Cleveland Indians' Jose Ramirez celebrates his home run during the second inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Chicago Cubs on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

A Chicago Cubs fan watches during the first inning of Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

A fan holds up a sign before Game 5 of the Major League Baseball World Series between the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago Cubs on Oct. 30, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

The Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs play in Game 5 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 30, 2016 in Chicago. (Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

CHICAGO — Pushed to the brink of elimination in their first World Series appearance in 71 years, the Chicago Cubs aren’t going down without a fight.

Dropping the first two games at Wrigley Field meant it was do-or-die time in the third and final game of the series in Chicago, and the Cubs needed a handful of season-saving performances to send the Fall Classic back to Ohio and thwart the Cleveland Indians’ attempt to finish them off.

From three players in particular, that’s exactly what they got Sunday night, but it was far from easy and Cubs fans, 41,711 of the them, had to deal with another cliffhanger.

In the end, the Cubs earned their first World Series win at Wrigley Field since Oct. 8, 1945, and it was Jon Lester, Kris Bryant and Aroldis Chapman leading them to a season-extending 3-2 victory in Game 5.

Lester provided the steadiness, limiting the Indians to two runs over six innings.

The Cubs did all their scoring during a three-run fourth inning, and it was Bryant providing the pop, breaking the ice with a solo home run to become the second-youngest player in franchise history to homer in a World Series game.

Finally, Chapman provided the (sigh of) relief, doing his best Andrew Miller impersonation when Cubs manager Joe Maddon brought him into the game in the seventh inning and asked the flame-throwing lefty to get the final eight outs of the ballgame, which took a season-high 42 pitches to do.

“That was a big ask and he answered,” Indians manager Terry Francona said of Chapman’s performance. “That was impressive.

“It was a big ask. We’ve done it here, too. Nobody’s just ever running to the bat rack when Chapman comes into the game, I’ll tell you that.”

Bryant wasn’t surprised the man with the 103-mph fastball got the job done.

“He just went out there and did his thing and, I think, that right there is exactly the reason why we got him,” Bryant said.

All of that adds up to the Indians now clinging to a 3-2 series lead, as the scene will now shift back to Cleveland for Game 6 at Progressive Field on Tuesday night and, potentially, Game 7 on Wednesday.

“Sometimes, they beat you,” Francona said. “I didn’t think we beat ourselves, I thought they beat us.”

While the Cubs still have hope, the odds are not in their favour.

Of the previous 46 teams that have jumped out to a 3-1 lead in the World Series, 40 of them have gone on to win.

“Why not us?” Bryant said when asked about the historical trends. “I feel like we play our best with our backs against the wall.

“We’re all about writing our own history. This team is a special one.”

On a chilly, late October night with their season on the line, Lester immediately got the crowd into the game, striking out the side in the top of the first.

He used three different pitches to get the job done, too, getting Rajai Davis with a changeup, Jason Kipnis with a cutter, and Francisco Lindor with a curveball, walking off the field to a roar from the Wrigley faithful.

Lester continued to cruise in the second inning, inducing a pair of weak pop ups, until Indians third baseman Jose Ramirez changed all that.

On the second pitch of the at-bat, Lester grooved a four-seam fastball and Ramirez deposited it in the left field bleachers for a 1-0 lead.

It looked like that solo home run would be big, as Indians starter Trevor Bauer was rolling, but along came the bottom of the fourth inning.

Bryant, the slugging all-star third baseman, walked to the plate and ripped a line-drive homer to left centre field to quickly tie the game, but the Cubs were far from done.

Anthony Rizzo came within a couple feet of making it back-to-back jacks, hitting a double off the right field wall.

Ben Zobrist then singled — the first time all series that the Cubs strung together three straight hits — to set up runners at first and third for shortstop Addison Russell, who promptly chopped an infield single down the third base line, scoring Rizzo to give the Cubs a 2-1 lead.

After Jason Heyward struck out, second baseman Javier Baez laid down a bunt for a single to load the bases up for catcher David Ross.

With many wondering if this was a spot Maddon would turn to Kyle Schwarber for a big, run producing knock, the Cubs weren’t about to throw Lester off his game by yanking his personal catcher in the fourth inning.

“There’s all kinds of drama out there,” Maddon said.

Ross ended up delivering, but not in the dramatic fashion many were envisioning with Schwarber at the plate, hitting a sacrifice fly to left field to make it a two-run advantage heading to the fifth inning.

“I mean, yeah, there guy was kind of cruising a little bit through the first three,” Bryant said. “It was nice to have a big inning to kind of get us going.

“For me, I wasn’t going out there and trying to hit a homer or anything like that. I just wanted to have a good at-bat and it was nice it went over the fence.”

Bauer lasted just four innings, and while the Indians would cut the Cubs’ lead to just one run in the sixth inning, they couldn’t get any closer.

Lester gave up four hits, struck out five and didn’t walk anybody in his six innings.

Maddon’s decision to go to Chapman early was a planned move, one that helped the Cubs stay alive.

“I talked to Chappy before the game and he was aware of being ready in the seventh inning,” Maddon said.

“He’s kind of fresh. He hasn’t been overused in the latter part of the season or in the playoffs.” </s> By the end of Wednesday night's World Series Game 7 between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians, one curse will be broken. For the other, the misery will remain.

The winner-take-all game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. The Cubs are trying to become the first team since 1985 to win the World Series after trailing 3-1. But there's a lot more history at stake than that.

The Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908, the longest drought in baseball. The Indians currently have the second-longest dry spell, last winning in 1948. The 174 combined seasons between titles for the two clubs is the most in World Series history.

"It's been a very well-contested series," Cubs manager Joe Maddon said. "Both sides have played really good baseball. They have been outstanding pitching. They have been outstanding pitching all year. All of a sudden, our offense is having a resurgence, which we need. Again, of course, of course we want to be the group that breaks the string. ...It's just correct and apt that we'd go seven games."

Starting for the Indians is ace Corey Kluber, who will try to win his third game this series. Over the last 30 years, only six other pitchers have made three starts in a single Fall Classic, the last being Chris Carpenter of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. The Cubs celebrate after defeating the Indians 9-3 in Game 6 to even the World Series 3-3. Anthony Rizzo of the Cubs hits two-run homer during the ninth inning of Game 6. Aroldis Chapman of the Cubs races Francisco Lindor of the Indians to the bag during the seventh inning in game 6. Addison Russell of the Cubs tosses the ball to Javier Baez (not pictured) for a force out in the sixth inning of Game 6. Jason Kipnis of the Indians rounds the bases after a home run during the fifth inning of Game 6. Jose Ramirez of the Indians makes a catch in the fifth inning in Game 6. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs is in action on the mound during Game 6. Addison Russell of the Cubs celebrates after hitting a grand slam in the third inning of Game 6. Ben Zobrist of the Cubs collides with the Indians' Roberto Perez in the first inning of Game 6. Tyler Naquin and Lonnie Chisenhall of the Indians are unable to make a play in the first inning of Game 6. Kris Bryant of the Cubs hits a solo home run during the first inning of Game 6. A general view during Game 6 of the 2016 World Series. Dexter Fowler, left, and Anthony Rizzo, right, of the Cubs celebrate after beating the Indians 3-2 in Game 5. Fans celebrate after the Chicago Cubs win in Game 5. Javier Baez, left, Jason Heyward, center, and Kris Bryant of the Cubs celebrate after Game 5. Jason Heyward of the Chicago Cubs steals second base past Jason Kipnis of the Cleveland Indians in the eighth inning in Game 5. Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward catches a fly ball hit by Indians' Trevor Bauer during the third inning of Game 5. The Cubs' Kris Bryant, left, celebrates with Ben Zobrist after hitting a home run during the fourth inning of Game 5. Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer throws during the first inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) reaches for a ball bounced off from catcher David Ross who was trying to catch a foul ball hit by Cleveland's Carlos Santana during the second inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester throws during the first inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs fans outside of Wrigley Field before Game 5. Francisco Lindor, left, and Brandon Guyer, right, of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after beating the Chicago Cubs 7-2 in Game 4 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Saturday, October 29, in Chicago. Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler can't make the catch on a double hit by Cleveland Indians' Coco Crisp during the seventh inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Carlos Santana wears socks with the team logo before Game 4. Francisco Lindor of the Cleveland Indians hits a single off of John Lackey of the Chicago Cubs in the third inning in Game 4. Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis collides with Chicago Cubs' Jason Heyward as Kipnis turns a double play on a ball hit by the Cubs' Javier Baez during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Carlos Santana hits a home run off Chicago Cubs starting pitcher John Lackey during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Corey Kluber is safe at first as Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo can't make a play on a wild throw by third baseman Kris Bryant during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis can't catch the ball hit by Chicago Cubs' Dexter Fowler during the first inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws during the first inning of Game 4. Chicago Cubs' Anthony Rizzo hits an RBI single during the first inning of Game 4. Francisco Lindor and Brandon Guyer of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after beating the Chicago Cubs 1-0 in Game 3 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Friday, October 28, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. Ben Zobrist of the Chicago Cubs reacts after striking out in the ninth inning in Game 3. Bryan Shaw of the Indians throws a pitch during the seventh inning in Game 3. Actor Bill Murray sings "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh inning stretch in Game 3. Michael Martinez of the Cleveland Indians scores a run during the seventh inning in Game 3. Coco Crisp of the Indians breaks his bat hitting an RBI single during the seventh inning in Game 3. Fans cheer in the stands after the fifth inning in Game 3. Justin Grimm of the Cubs reacts after a double play during the fifth inning in Game 3. Addison Russell of the Cubs turns an inning ending double play in the fifth inning in Game 3. Willson Contreras of the Cubs throws to second baseman Javier Baez for an out on a bunt attempt by Indians starting pitcher Josh Tomlin in Game 3. Francisco Lindor of the Indians hits a single in the fourth inning in Game 3. Addison Russell of the Cubs makes a diving catch for an out during the third inning in Game 3. Josh Tomlim of the Indians pitches in the first inning in Game 3. Dexter Fowler of the Cubs celebrates with Jason Heyward after defeating the Cleveland Indians 5-1 in Game 2. Designated hitter Carlos Santana of the Indians reacts after striking out during the seventh inning in Game 2. Jason Kipnis of the Indians is unable to handle the ball as Willson Contreras of the Cubs slides safely into second during the seventh inning in Game 2. Cleveland Indians fans hold up a sign in the stands during the sixth inning in Game 2. Ben Zobrist of the Cubs in action at the plate in Game 2. Relief pitcher Zach McAllister and shortstop Francisco Lindor of the Indians react during fifth inning in Game 2. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs throws a pitch during the fourth inning. He had a no hitter through five innings in Game 2. Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs celebrates scoring a run on an RBI single hit by Kyle Schwarber (not pictured) during the third inning in Game 2. Kyle Schwarber of the Cubs hits an RBI single during the third inning in Game 2. Francisco Lindor of the Indians dives back to first on an attempted pick-off in Game 2. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs throws a pitch during the first inning in Game 2. Kris Bryant of the Cubs hits a single during the first inning in Game 2. Francisco Lindor, left, and Rajai Davis of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after defeating the Chicago Cubs 6-0 in the Game 1. Javier Baez of the Cubs tags out Cleveland's Francisco Lindor as he tries to steal second base in Game 1. Cubs catcher David Ross falls after catching a pop fly by Cleveland's Lonnie Chisenhall in Game 1. Cleveland outfielder Rajai Davis catches a ball hit by the Cubs' Willson Contreras in Game 1. Jon Lester of the Cubs throws a pitch in Game 1. Cleveland Indians fans show their enthusiasm during the first game in Game 1. Addison Russell of the Cubs catches a ball hit by Cleveland's Jason Kipnis in Game 1. Cleveland starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws a pitch. Kluber set a World Series record with eight strikeouts in the first three innings in game 1. Fireworks explode over Progressive Field in Cleveland prior to Game 1. Kluber will go up against Chicago's Kyle Hendricks, who started Game 3 -- won by the Indians, 1-0 -- but did not factor in the decision. "It's an honor to even be a part of it, and we're going to give it everything we have," Indians manager Terry Francona said. "I can't imagine a better group of guys to go through something like this with. I'm looking forward to it already." This marks the 38th time in a best-of-seven World Series that the Fall Classic has extended to a final game. But clearly this isn't just any Game 7. For the Cubs, it's the second time they will play in a winner-take-all World Series Game 7. The only other time came 71 years ago in 1945 -- the last time they were in the World Series -- when they lost to the Detroit Tigers. That also was the year when the purported billy goat curse was put on the club. On October 6, 1945, a month after the end of World War II, a Chicago tavern owner named William "Billy" Sianis went to Wrigley Field, intending to attend Game 4 of the World Series with his pet goat, Murphy. But, according to the Billy Goat Tavern website , while both had tickets, the goat was denied entry. No animals were allowed in the ballpark, plus Murphy smelled bad. World Series 2016: Misery soon will end for Cubs or Indians fans Sianis, according to legend, threw up his arms and proclaimed, "The Cubs ain't gonna win no more. The Cubs will never win a World Series so long as the goat is not allowed in Wrigley Field." The Indians have been hexed, too, with the not-so-well-known curse of Rocky Colavito . Just before the start of the 1960 season, the Indians traded Colavito, the American League home run leader the previous year, to the Tigers for Harvey Kuenn. What followed were decades of agony. The team was terrible, spawning the 1989 movie "Major League." Can't watch the WS? The Chicago Cubs have your back. This is the second time in franchise history the Indians will play a World Series Game 7. The last time ended in heartbreak, when they lost to the Florida (now Miami) Marlins in 1997. Indians closer Jose Mesa blew the save in the bottom of the ninth inning, and Edgar Renteria won it for the Marlins with a walkoff single in the bottom of the 11th. </s> The Chicago Cubs are World Series champions at long last, winning their first Fall Classic in 108 years, defeating the Cleveland Indians in 10 innings 8-7 in Game 7 at Progressive Field in Cleveland.

The Indians were down 6-3 in the bottom of the eighth inning, but they got to closer Aroldis Chapman, tying things up with an RBI double from Brandon Guyer and a two-run home run from Rajai Davis.

Chapman blew the save, Cleveland had the momentum, but then play was halted by rain before the start of the 10th inning. The delay lasted 17 minutes.

When play resumed, Chicago got to work.

Kyle Schwarber singled off Bryan Shaw. Albert Almora, Jr., came in to pinch run and advanced to second on a fly out from Kris Bryant. Ben Zobrist's RBI double off Bryan Shaw drove in pinch runner Albert Almora, Jr., and Miguel Montero's single with the bases loaded brought home Anthony Rizzo for what proved the winning run. Zobrist, who went 10-for-28 (a .357 average) with two doubles, a triple, two RBIs and five runs in the series, was named World Series MVP.

Schwarber went 3-for-5 and finished the World Series 7-for-17 with a .412 average and two RBIs.

Longest drought over at last

The Cubs hadn't won a World Series since 1908, which was the longest drought in baseball. They also broke the curse set the last time they got this far 71 years ago.

On October 6, 1945, a month after the end of World War II, a Chicago tavern owner named William "Billy" Sianis went to Wrigley Field, intending to attend Game 4 of the World Series with his pet goat, Murphy. But, according to the Billy Goat Tavern website, while both had tickets, the goat was denied entry. No animals were allowed in the ballpark, plus Murphy smelled bad.

Sianis, according to legend, threw up his arms and proclaimed, "The Cubs ain't gonna win no more. The Cubs will never win a World Series so long as the goat is not allowed in Wrigley Field."

They had not won since. Until now.

The Cubs are the first team to come behind from a 3-1 deficit to win the World Series since the Kansas City Royals did it in 1985. Chicago also accomplished that feat by winning the final two games on the road. The last team to do that was the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates.

With the Cubs' win early Thursday morning, the Indians now have the current longest dry spell between championships, last winning in 1948.

This Cubs roster was built by team president Theo Epstein, and he's helped kill a curse before. Epstein's previous job: General manager of the Boston Red Sox. In 2004, the team roster he built won its first World Series since 1918, ending the Curse of the Bambino.

"It's fitting it's got to be done with one of the best games of all time," Epstein said with the World Series trophy in his arms, talking to Fox. "It's unbelievable. What a testament to our players, their grit."

Epstein said this title isn't just for the current team, and he can't wait to bring the trophy back to Chicago.

"Our fans just deserve it so much, and all the former Cubs, everyone, this is for so many people -- (the late) Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, Billy Williams. ... We're bringing the trophy home to you guys. It's been a century in the making."

Indians starter Corey Kluber had been dominant this postseason, including getting the win in Games 1 and 4. Entering Game 7, he allowed just three earned runs in 30 1/3 innings this postseason, striking out 35 with an ERA of 0.89.

But Kluber struggled, giving up four runs on six hits. It was his first career game (134 starts, five relief appearances) where he failed to record a strikeout.

In the top of the first inning, Dexter Fowler hit the first lead-off home run in a winner-take-all Game 7 to give the Cubs a 1-0 lead.

Cleveland answered in the bottom of the third inning, with Carlos Santana driving in Coco Crisp. Chicago, though, wasn't finished.

In the top of the fourth, Kris Bryant singled to left for the Cubs. Rizzo was hit by a pitch. Zobrist reached on a fielder's choice to put runners on first and third.

An Addison Russell sacrifice fly brought home Bryant to regain the lead. Willson Contreras doubled off the wall in center and drove in Zobrist to make it 3-1.

In the top of the fifth, Javier Baez, the final batter Kluber faced, hit a solo home run. It was 5-1.

In the bottom of the fifth with two outs, Cubs manager Joe Maddon elected to take out his starter, Kyle Hendricks, with a runner (Santana) on first. In came Jon Lester, coming off two days' rest, and his catcher, David Ross. It didn't go so well for Chicago at first.

Jason Kipnis hit a soft grounder. Ross' throw sailed past first base, and Kipnis reached on an infield single. Santana advanced all the way to third while Kipnis went to second on the Ross error.

With Francisco Lindor at the plate, a Lester wild pitch bounced off Ross. On heads up base running, Santana and Kipnis scored to make it 5-3.

But any second guessing of Ross was erased in the top of the fifth inning, when the 39-year-old connected on a solo home run to center to give Chicago a 6-3 lead. And with that insurance run came history. Ross -- playing in the final game of his career -- is the oldest player to hit a home run in a World Series Game 7, at 39 years, 228 days old, edging Willie Stargell (1979) by three days. </s> The Cubs, powered in part by an Addison Russell grand slam and home runs from Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo, have forced a decisive Game 7, winning Game 6 at Progressive Field in Cleveland in a 9-3 blowout. They now have the chance to win the World Series for the first time in 108 years.

Cubs starter Jake Arrieta got his second win of the series. He went 5 2/3 innings, giving up two runs on three hits, walking three and striking out nine. The only damage done on his watch was a fourth-inning Mike Napoli RBI single, driving in Jason Kipnis, as well as by a Kipnis solo home run in the fifth.

"Jake was really good," Cubs manager Joe Maddon said. "On his regular rest he was outstanding. We came out hitting the baseball. We looked more normal. We hit our home runs."

Game 7 is Wednesday in Cleveland, with first pitch scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET. Starting for the Indians will be Corey Kluber, who will try to win his third game this series. He'll face Chicago's Kyle Hendricks, who had a no decision in Game 3.

The Cubs celebrate after defeating the Indians 9-3 in Game 6 to even the World Series 3-3. Anthony Rizzo of the Cubs hits two-run homer during the ninth inning of Game 6. Aroldis Chapman of the Cubs races Francisco Lindor of the Indians to the bag during the seventh inning in game 6. Addison Russell of the Cubs tosses the ball to Javier Baez (not pictured) for a force out in the sixth inning of Game 6. Jason Kipnis of the Indians rounds the bases after a home run during the fifth inning of Game 6. Jose Ramirez of the Indians makes a catch in the fifth inning in Game 6. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs is in action on the mound during Game 6. Addison Russell of the Cubs celebrates after hitting a grand slam in the third inning of Game 6. Ben Zobrist of the Cubs collides with the Indians' Roberto Perez in the first inning of Game 6. Tyler Naquin and Lonnie Chisenhall of the Indians are unable to make a play in the first inning of Game 6. Kris Bryant of the Cubs hits a solo home run during the first inning of Game 6. A general view during Game 6 of the 2016 World Series. Dexter Fowler, left, and Anthony Rizzo, right, of the Cubs celebrate after beating the Indians 3-2 in Game 5. Fans celebrate after the Chicago Cubs win in Game 5. Javier Baez, left, Jason Heyward, center, and Kris Bryant of the Cubs celebrate after Game 5. Jason Heyward of the Chicago Cubs steals second base past Jason Kipnis of the Cleveland Indians in the eighth inning in Game 5. Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward catches a fly ball hit by Indians' Trevor Bauer during the third inning of Game 5. The Cubs' Kris Bryant, left, celebrates with Ben Zobrist after hitting a home run during the fourth inning of Game 5. Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer throws during the first inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) reaches for a ball bounced off from catcher David Ross who was trying to catch a foul ball hit by Cleveland's Carlos Santana during the second inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester throws during the first inning of Game 5. Chicago Cubs fans outside of Wrigley Field before Game 5. Francisco Lindor, left, and Brandon Guyer, right, of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after beating the Chicago Cubs 7-2 in Game 4 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Saturday, October 29, in Chicago. Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler can't make the catch on a double hit by Cleveland Indians' Coco Crisp during the seventh inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Carlos Santana wears socks with the team logo before Game 4. Francisco Lindor of the Cleveland Indians hits a single off of John Lackey of the Chicago Cubs in the third inning in Game 4. Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis collides with Chicago Cubs' Jason Heyward as Kipnis turns a double play on a ball hit by the Cubs' Javier Baez during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Carlos Santana hits a home run off Chicago Cubs starting pitcher John Lackey during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians' Corey Kluber is safe at first as Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo can't make a play on a wild throw by third baseman Kris Bryant during the second inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians center fielder Rajai Davis can't catch the ball hit by Chicago Cubs' Dexter Fowler during the first inning of Game 4. Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws during the first inning of Game 4. Chicago Cubs' Anthony Rizzo hits an RBI single during the first inning of Game 4. Francisco Lindor and Brandon Guyer of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after beating the Chicago Cubs 1-0 in Game 3 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on Friday, October 28, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. Ben Zobrist of the Chicago Cubs reacts after striking out in the ninth inning in Game 3. Bryan Shaw of the Indians throws a pitch during the seventh inning in Game 3. Actor Bill Murray sings "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh inning stretch in Game 3. Michael Martinez of the Cleveland Indians scores a run during the seventh inning in Game 3. Coco Crisp of the Indians breaks his bat hitting an RBI single during the seventh inning in Game 3. Fans cheer in the stands after the fifth inning in Game 3. Justin Grimm of the Cubs reacts after a double play during the fifth inning in Game 3. Addison Russell of the Cubs turns an inning ending double play in the fifth inning in Game 3. Willson Contreras of the Cubs throws to second baseman Javier Baez for an out on a bunt attempt by Indians starting pitcher Josh Tomlin in Game 3. Francisco Lindor of the Indians hits a single in the fourth inning in Game 3. Addison Russell of the Cubs makes a diving catch for an out during the third inning in Game 3. Josh Tomlim of the Indians pitches in the first inning in Game 3. Dexter Fowler of the Cubs celebrates with Jason Heyward after defeating the Cleveland Indians 5-1 in Game 2. Designated hitter Carlos Santana of the Indians reacts after striking out during the seventh inning in Game 2. Jason Kipnis of the Indians is unable to handle the ball as Willson Contreras of the Cubs slides safely into second during the seventh inning in Game 2. Cleveland Indians fans hold up a sign in the stands during the sixth inning in Game 2. Ben Zobrist of the Cubs in action at the plate in Game 2. Relief pitcher Zach McAllister and shortstop Francisco Lindor of the Indians react during fifth inning in Game 2. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs throws a pitch during the fourth inning. He had a no hitter through five innings in Game 2. Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs celebrates scoring a run on an RBI single hit by Kyle Schwarber (not pictured) during the third inning in Game 2. Kyle Schwarber of the Cubs hits an RBI single during the third inning in Game 2. Francisco Lindor of the Indians dives back to first on an attempted pick-off in Game 2. Jake Arrieta of the Cubs throws a pitch during the first inning in Game 2. Kris Bryant of the Cubs hits a single during the first inning in Game 2. Francisco Lindor, left, and Rajai Davis of the Cleveland Indians celebrate after defeating the Chicago Cubs 6-0 in the Game 1. Javier Baez of the Cubs tags out Cleveland's Francisco Lindor as he tries to steal second base in Game 1. Cubs catcher David Ross falls after catching a pop fly by Cleveland's Lonnie Chisenhall in Game 1. Cleveland outfielder Rajai Davis catches a ball hit by the Cubs' Willson Contreras in Game 1. Jon Lester of the Cubs throws a pitch in Game 1. Cleveland Indians fans show their enthusiasm during the first game in Game 1. Addison Russell of the Cubs catches a ball hit by Cleveland's Jason Kipnis in Game 1. Cleveland starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws a pitch. Kluber set a World Series record with eight strikeouts in the first three innings in game 1. Fireworks explode over Progressive Field in Cleveland prior to Game 1. The Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908, the longest drought in baseball. The Indians currently have the second-longest dry spell, last winning in 1948. The 174 combined seasons between titles for the two clubs is the most in World Series history. By the end of Wednesday night, one city will feel pure euphoria. For the other, the misery will continue. "I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's a really important game tomorrow," Indians manager Terry Francona said. "And we'll be really excited to play." Cleveland starting pitcher Josh Tomlin, who had last pitched in Game 3 and was coming off just three days' rest, got rocked early by the heart of the Cubs' lineup. In the top of the first inning, Bryant homered to left for the first run of the game. It was his second consecutive game with a homer and would finish Tuesday night 4-for-5. The next batter, Rizzo, singled. A Ben Zobrist single advanced Rizzo to third. World Series 2016: Misery soon will end for Cubs or Indians fans And then, a defensive nightmare for Cleveland. Russell hit a shallow fly ball to right-center field that looked playable, but it dropped between center fielder Tyler Naquin and right fielder Lonnie Chisenhall for a double. Rizzo and Zobrist scored, while a Kipnis throwing error sent Russell to third. That made it 3-0. "Lonnie went hard after it, as he should, but it's Naquin's ball," Francona said. "He was playing on that side, and he's the center fielder. And I think at the end there, as Lonnie was kind of pulling off, Naquin was yelling, 'It's yours. You got it.' It's pretty loud anyway. I think we kind of told Nake especially playing on that side, that's his ball. Just take charge and take it. Kind of made it hard on Lonnie because you've got to go hard until you hear something. "That was an unfortunate play, because that we thought we were out of the inning with one, kind of regroup, and instead it's three and JT had to keep pitching." It didn't get any better for Tomlin in the third, as a walk to Kyle Schwarber and base hits from Rizzo and Zobrist loaded the bases. Francona pulled his starter for Dan Otero, but the floodgates already had been opened. On a 2-0 count, Russell launched a 91 mph pitch from Otero to center field for a grand slam and a 7-0 lead. At 22 years old, Russell is the second-youngest player to hit a grand slam in the World Series. Only Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle, who was two weeks shy of his 22nd birthday in 1953, did that at a younger age. Russell also tied the all-time record for RBIs in a single World Series game with six. Tomlin lasted just 2 1/3 innings and was responsible for six runs. He allowed six hits, walked one and struck out none. Rizzo went 3-for-5 with a two-run home run in the ninth. Zobrist went 2-for-4 and scored twice. </s> Chicago Cubs fans celebrate at Progressive Field after Game 6 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Cleveland. The Cubs won 9-3 to tie the series 3-3. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) Cleveland Indians fans watch during the ninth inning of Game 6 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Chicago Cubs Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Travis Wood, and catcher Willson Contreras celebrate after their win in Game 6 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Cleveland. The Cubs won 9-3 to tie the series 3-3. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum) Chicago Cubs' Ben Zobrist collides with Cleveland Indians catcher Roberto Perez as he scores during the first inning of Game 6 of the Major League Baseball World Series Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Jamie Squire, Pool) FILE - In this June 2, 2016 file photo, Los Angeles Dodgers legend Tommy Lasorda, left, poses with actor Joseph Mantegna before Mantegna threw out a ceremonial first pitch before a baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and Dodgers in Chicago. The Chicago Cubs are trying to do something that hasn't happened in the lifetime of anyone born in the last 108 years: Win a World Series. Mantegna, 68, is hoping his 101-year-old mother can see a Cubs win this year. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File) FILE - In this May 29, 2009 file photo, actor Joe Mantegna reacts after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before the start of a baseball game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, in Chicago. The Chicago Cubs are trying to do something that hasn't happened in the lifetime of anyone born in the last 108 years: Win a World Series. Mantegna, 68, is hoping his 101-year-old mother can see a Cubs win this year. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File) FILE - In this Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2016 file photo, the Chicago Cubs celebrate after Game 4 of the National League baseball championship series against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Los Angeles. The Cubs won 10-2 to tie the series 2-2. The Chicago Cubs are trying to do something that hasn't happened in the lifetime of anyone born in the last 108 years: Win a World Series. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

CLEVELAND | Most fans around the country can sit back and savor Game 7. Not so easy for anyone who has spent a lifetime rooting for the Cubs or Indians.

All those years of hope and heartbreak collide Wednesday night when Chicago and Cleveland meet one last time this season to decide the World Series.

With the Cubs seeking their first championship since 1908 and the Indians trying to stop a drought that dates to 1948, the stakes could hardly be higher.

“No one says Game 3 or 5. This is what you want,” said shortstop Francisco Lindor, who leads the Indians with a .364 Series average.

Cleveland ace Corey Kluber pitches against Kyle Hendricks, the major league ERA leader. Kluber has a chance to become the first pitcher to win three World Series starts since Detroit’s Mickey Lolich in 1968.

“The game has changed,” the 76-year-old Lolich said Tuesday. “It’s a totally different game than what we played back in our days. It just doesn’t happen.”

Addison Russell hit a grand slam and tied a Series record with six RBIs in Chicago’s 9-3 win Tuesday night that forced this captivating matchup to the limit.

Chicago is trying to become the first club to overcome a 3-1 Series deficit since the 1985 Kansas City Royals and the first to do it by winning Games 6 and 7 on the road since the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates.

Now it’s one night, winner take all.

Even after losing two straight, the Indians remain confident.

Kluber is 4-1 with a 0.89 ERA in four postseason starts, starting with 16 consecutive scoreless innings against Boston in the Division Series and Toronto in the AL Championship Series.

“That’s our guy. That’s our stud,” Cleveland second baseman Jason Kipnis said.

A 30-year-old right-hander, Kluber started on three days’ rest for the first time in his big league career in Game 4 against the Blue Jays. He left after five innings with the Indians trailing 2-1 in a 5-1 defeat, then threw 88 pitches over six innings as Cleveland beat the Cubs 6-0 last Tuesday in the Series opener.

He came back on three days’ rest in Game 4, needing 81 pitches for six innings of one-run, five-hit ball in a 7-2 win that gave Cleveland a 3-1 lead.

“Obviously, he’s a special guy,” Hendricks said. “You can just see it, the way he takes to the mound. He’s always locked in.”

Nine pitchers have won three starts in a single Series, none since Lolich went 3-0 with a 1.67 ERA and 21 strikeouts while tossing three complete games against the St. Louis Cardinals.

“Good players, good pitchers, can do special things. He’s in that category,” Indians manager Terry Francona said. “It was kind of an easy decision after talking to him.”

The 2014 AL Cy Young Award winner, Kluber was 18-9 with a 3.14 ERA this season as Cleveland won the AL Central for the first time since 2007. His win in the All-Star Game at San Diego in July gave the American League home-field advantage in the Series.

“I never connected those dots at that point in time,” he said.

Already, he is the first pitcher to win Games 1 and 4 in the Series since Cincinnati’s Jose Rijo in 1990. In addition to Lolich, the only others to win three Series starts were Charles “Deacon” Phillippe of Pittsburgh and Bill Dinneen of the Boston Americans (1903), the New York Giants’ Christy Mathewson (1905), the Philadelphia Athletics’ Jack Coombs (1910), Pittsburgh’s Babe Adams (1909), Cleveland’s Stan Coveleski (1920), Milwaukee’s Lew Burdette (1957) and Bob Gibson (1967).

Hendricks, a 28-year-old right-hander, went 16-8 and didn’t get a decision in his Game 3 Series start, when he allowed six hits in 4 1/3 scoreless innings of a 1-0 loss.

“This is the ultimate dream,” he said. “When you’re out in your backyard as a kid, playing Little League at the field with your friends, this is the moment you dream about: Game 7, 3-2, two outs, something like that, bottom of the ninth. But it’s always Game 7 of the World Series.”

Behind the starters, Chicago closer Aroldis Chapman has thrown 62 pitches in the last three days. Cleveland’s Andrew Miller hasn’t pitched since Saturday and closer Cody Allen has been rested since Sunday.

“We’re all ready to go,” Miller said. “Hopefully we’re fresh.” </s> The Chicago Cubs shed themselves of the "Curse of the Billy Goat" and ended a 108-year wait for a World Series title by beating the Cleveland Indians 8-7 in 10 innings on Wednesday in a thrilling Game Seven classic.

The triumph of Chicago's beloved Cubbies set off a wild celebration in the streets of the Windy City after more than a century of pent up frustration for fans since their last Major League Baseball championship in 1908.

Cubs players held their own euphoric party on the Progressive Field diamond cheered on by boisterous contingent of their fans after earlier squandering a 6-3 lead with four outs left in the game only to bounce back for the precious victory.

The victory in the early hours of Thursday morning capped a Chicago comeback from a 3-1 deficit in the best-of-seven, a feat last achieved by the Kansas City Royals in 1985.

It was the third World Series crown for the Cubs, while the disconsolate Indians replaced them as the team with the longest current World Series title drought, 68 years and counting.
In American Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs defeat the Cleveland Indians 8–7 in 10 innings, winning the Series 4–3 and claiming their first MLB title since 1908. The Cubs' Ben Zobrist is named series MVP. Cubs win game 7 and the title in the early hours of November 3rd, 2016.