In the annals of baseball history, the 2016 Chicago Cubs' World Series triumph over Cleveland stands apart not just for ending a 108-year drought but for the unprecedented role played by three catchers. Willson Contreras, David Ross, and Miguel Montero collectively produced hits and RBIs in Game 7, a feat unmatched in the 670-game history of the Fall Classic. Maddon's strategic plan hinged on Contreras starting behind the plate for Kyle Hendricks, who navigated Cleveland's lineup for four-plus innings, allowing just one earned run. Contreras, a rookie, delivered a pinch-hit two-run homer, embodying the moment's intensity.

Maddon then pivoted, removing Hendricks after questionable calls to bring in Lester, with Ross entering as his personal catcher. Ross, the 39-year-old 'Grandpa,' faced pressure but walked Carlos Santana and then walked a grounder to Rizzo, only to later hit a walk-off homer off Miller, a rare relief for his career. The plan shifted again when Cleveland rallied, bringing in Montero for the ninth.

His pinch-hit grand slam against the Dodgers in the NLCS foreshadowed his decisive pinch-hit in Game 7, sealing the Cubs' historic victory. This trio's combined performance remains a unique and defining chapter in the franchise's redemption story.