The Cubs will return to the National League Championship Series for the first time in 12 years Saturday to face the New York Mets and fans will be out in force to watch the game at local bars and restaurants. After the Cubs’ NLDS win this week, fans kept the peace with Cardinal supporters watching the game together at McGonigal’s Pub, where the rivalry was (mostly) friendly and the Cubs’ victory OH-SO-SWEET!
We stopped by both McGonigal’s Pub and Tip Top Tap on Tuesday to catch fan reaction to the team’s win and the Cubs’ chances heading into game one of the NLCS. Here’s what they had to say about how the team is looking so far and their predictions for the rest of the season.
“The curse has been broken and they’re the best team in baseball. I predict they’re going to play the Mets next, win the NLCS 4-2 and go on to the World Series to beat the Texas Rangers in game seven.” – Tim Kelley, Barrington
“I think it’s the beginning of a dynasty for the Cubs. There’s a different vibe going on. I think Joe Madden is a big part of it and the other young rookies are just stepping up to the plate. I like our chances for the NLCS and I predict the Cubs are going to win it in five.” – Gino Grisi
“I’ve been a Cub fan my whole life and I was really jaded with the Cubs the past couple of years because I didn’t agree with how they were rebuilding the team. But I certainly didn’t think they were going to turn it around this quickly. We look like we could beat anybody at this point. It’s insane, it’s way different this year and it’s really exciting.” – Rob, Barrington
“Come watch the Cubs win at the Tip Top Tap! It’s down to earth, we’re a fun group and, since their break, the Cubs are the best team in baseball. Enough Said!” – Tip Top Tap Co-owner, Mark Konicek
NLCS game one starts at 7 p.m. CT and, if you’re a Cubs fan, you’ll be in good company at both McGonigal’s Pub and Tip Top Tap at opposite corners of the Cook/Main Street intersection in the heart of downtown Barrington. Go Cubs!!!
