Posted by John Dewan on Dec 16th 2015
July 07, 2006
That's the tune the Chicago Cubs are singing this year. They are last in the majors (not just the National League) in allowing the most walks by their pitchers. And they are last in the majors (not just the National League) in drawing walks by their batters.
How often has a team ended the season last in baseball in both categories? Eight times. While generally these teams have not fared well, only once did that team finish in last place! Now that is a surprise. Here's the complete list:
Year Team Standings Finish
1972 Angels AL West 5th of 6 teams
1960 Indians AL 4th of 8 teams
1959 Indians AL 2nd of 8 teams
1954 Orioles AL 7th of 8 teams
1910 Braves NL 8th of 8 teams
1901 Indians AL 7th of 8 teams
1890 Giants NL 6th of 8 teams
1886 Maroons NL 6th of 8 teams
Thank you to my old actuary friend Andrew Berman for unveiling this ignominious accomplishment by the Chicago Cubs.