Boys of Zimmer - 30th Anniversary Series - 2/17/1989

While recently blogging about a random Cubs pitcher, Pat Perry, I became immersed in articles from 1988 and 1989. This is the 30th anniversary of the 1989 Cubs "Boys of Zimmer," a team that reached the postseason after a five year hiatus. This daily series will look back at Chicago Tribune articles and columns from 30 years ago, day by day.

On February 17, 1989 we were still a few days from pitchers and catchers reporting to Hohokam Park in Mesa, Arizona. There were some early arrivals including newcomer Steve Wilson with Mark Grace, Rick Sutcliffe, and Scott Sanderson.

Ty Griffin was my favorite Cubs prospect to never make the show. He was the team's first round draft pick in 1988, the same year he starred for Team USA in the Olympics. Just before spring training 1989, Griffin's jersey was retired at his high school alma mater in Tampa, Florida.