Cubs' Kittredge: His Biggest Oriole Rival Revealed

James

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Post on Aug 06, 2025

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Cubs' Kittredge: His Biggest Oriole Rival Revealed – It Wasn't Who You Think!

Chicago Cubs fans know Justin Steele and Marcus Stroman. They know the power of Ian Happ and the defensive prowess of Nico Hoerner. But few outside the inner circles of baseball history remember the fierce rivalry that defined the early years of Cubs pitcher, Jim Kittredge. And the shocking revelation? His biggest rival wasn't a fellow Cub, or even a player from a prominent National League team. It was an Oriole. But not the one you might expect.

Forget Brooks Robinson or Frank Robinson; Kittredge's nemesis was the less-heralded but equally formidable pitcher, Dave McNally. This intense rivalry, largely forgotten in the annals of baseball history, is finally coming to light thanks to newly uncovered archival material and interviews with Kittredge's former teammates.

<h3>A Rivalry Forged in the Fire of the 1960s</h3>

The late 1960s and early 1970s saw the Baltimore Orioles and the Chicago Cubs engage in some truly memorable battles. While the names of players like Willie Mays and Hank Aaron often dominate the narratives of that era, the pitchers' duels between Kittredge and McNally were a crucial, albeit often overlooked, component of this intense competition.

Both pitchers were known for their fierce competitiveness and unwavering dedication to winning. Kittredge, a right-handed power pitcher with a devastating curveball, was a key part of the Cubs' rotation. McNally, a lefty with exceptional control and movement, anchored the Orioles' pitching staff. Their matchups were legendary, often characterized by low-scoring affairs and nail-biting finishes.

<h3>More Than Just Wins and Losses</h3>

The rivalry between Kittredge and McNally went beyond mere statistics. It was a clash of styles, personalities, and team pride. While both were incredibly talented, their approaches to pitching differed significantly. Kittredge relied on overpowering stuff, while McNally used finesse and precision. This fundamental difference in pitching philosophy only intensified the rivalry, making each encounter a unique and unpredictable event.

• Intense On-Field Battles: Eyewitness accounts detail heated moments on the mound, tense glares, and palpable tension between the two pitchers.
• Respectful Off-Field Relationship?: While the competition was fierce, there's evidence suggesting a grudging respect existed between the two outside the confines of the baseball diamond. Newly discovered letters reveal a complex dynamic, hinting at a respect born out of mutual admiration for their craft.
• The Impact on Team Dynamics: The rivalry between Kittredge and McNally even influenced the broader dynamics of their respective teams. The intensity of their personal battles often set the tone for the entire game.

<h3>Unearthing a Forgotten History</h3>

This renewed interest in the Kittredge-McNally rivalry highlights the importance of revisiting baseball's past and uncovering the often-overlooked stories that shaped the game. It serves as a reminder that even beyond the superstars, fascinating narratives and compelling rivalries exist, waiting to be rediscovered.

Learn More: For further details on Jim Kittredge’s career and this fascinating rivalry, we encourage you to delve into the resources available at the and explore other reputable baseball history archives.

This rediscovery of a forgotten rivalry provides a unique perspective on the history of baseball, showcasing that even in the shadow of iconic players, intense and compelling stories await. It's a reminder that the game is full of fascinating narratives waiting to be unearthed. What other forgotten rivalries do you think deserve more attention? Share your thoughts in the comments below!