Lower Manhattan in the early 21st century (Stephen Amiaga/Wildlife Conservation Society)
Like many Chicago Cubs fans, I’m frustrated with the lack of activity on the part of the Cubs and Jed Hoyer. However, big picture, all that his lack of activity impacts is the Cubs standing in the NL Central. If Jed was at a different time and place in history, the consequences of his actions could have been much more severe. Consider a few examples.
Jed Hoyer at Manhattan Island
When I was in school, I was taught about how the Pilgrims traded some bobbles and beads to the Indians for Manhattan Island. The value of those trinkets was put at $24. But what if Jed Hoyer had been there representing the Pilgrims? The Indians would still have the island and it would be the biggest casino operation in the world. Here’s how that could have gone down.
Jed to the other Pilgrims: ” We need to save those bobbles and beads for the future. What if we need those trinkets down the line? And what good is that island going to do us? Sure, this stuff is worth $24 now, but what will it be worth in a few years. What will that island be worth? Think people!
“By the way, anybody have a hay mattress we can hide these things in? We can acquire more land when the time is right.“
Jed Hoyer at the Alamo
Jed would have been the one who gave an inspirational speech to those defend the Alamo. I can see Jed saying, “Boys, I think we can take them with what we’ve got. We’re not going to raise the white flag. We’re not the White Sox.
Jed continues: What do you mean you don’t like the odds? What is it, like 20 to 1? We can handle that. If you don’t like the odds, cross this line. What’s wrong with you guys? Get back behind that line.”
“And Travis, don’t send for any help. Davy, Jim, Dansby and Cody have this covered. Besides, I already got Jose to help us, but I’m not sure that was a good idea. We might have to let him go.“
Jed Hoyer at The Wall Street Crash of 1929
Hoyer was seen on the floor of the Stock Exchange yelling, “Buy baby, buy!” He was actually trying to buy from guys who were on their way down from a high floor before they hit the ground, figuring if he waited long enough, he could buy at the best price possible.
Jed was also noted as being the only guy on the trading floor trying to buy stock with coupons.
It has been said that humor is the defense of the powerless. When it comes to Cubs management, Cubs fans are defenseless. Maybe humor helps with the disappointment.
