The Cubs, World War II and Chicago in 1945-- Part 8: Long-Time Cubs

Stan Hack spent his whole career with the Cubs.  So too did Don Johnson, the second baseman.  First baseman Phil Cavarretta was a Cubbie for twenty years.  He came to the team from Lane Technical High School, just west from Wrigley Field  on Addison Street.  After his playing days, he worked in a clothing store on Cicero Avenue.  "You know, taking shoulder measurements and pants lengths," he said.

Given their modest salaries, players had to be penny-pinchers.  Pitcher Claude Passeau and center fielder Andy Pafko both lived at the Sheridan Plaza Hotel at Wilson Avenue and Sheridan Road.  Both were farm boys and walked to and from Wrigley Field.  That allowed admirers a close-up view.

--GreGen