Cubs Roundup, Oct 19: Cubs' 1962 Houston Debut, Bryant's Rockies Future, One-Year Wonders, T

[North Side Baseball]

Here is some of the latest Cubs analysis and history from around the internet. The roundup covers the first MLB game in Houston, Kris Bryant's uncertain future, the 25 greatest one-year wonders in Cubs history, and Tyrone Taylor's 2026 performance.

• Cubs historical sleuthing: The very first MLB game in Houston (Bleed Cubbie Blue). Notes a historical photo of the first pitch in the Houston Colt .45s' inaugural MLB game on April 11, 1962, featuring Bobby Shantz pitching to Lou Brock, who struck out; the article also questions the .353 batting average listed on the scoreboard, suggesting it may reflect Brock's 1962 spring training performance.
• Former Cubs star Kris Bryant gets another ominous sign about his MLB future from Rockies (Cubbies Crib). Notes the decline of Kris Bryant's MLB career due to recurring injuries, including a degenerative disc disease that caused him to miss the 2026 season, and cites Rockies president Paul DePodesta's statement that the team is preparing as if Bryant will not play in the final two years of his $182 million, seven-year contract.
• 25 greatest one-year wonders in Cubs history who disappeared almost as fast as they arrived (Cubbies Crib). Notes the 25 most notable one-year wonders in Cubs history, including players like Frank Schwindel (2021-2022, .342/.389/.613 in 56 games), Bryan LaHair (2011-2012, .288/.369/.534 before a .572 OPS post-All-Star break), and Mark Bellhorn (2002, 27 homers, .886 OPS before declining in 2003).
• A few thoughts about the Cubs and Tyrone Taylor (Bleed Cubbie Blue). Notes that Tyrone Taylor performed well as a platoon hitter and defensive outfielder for the Cubs in 2026, batting .351/.390/.500 in 82 plate appearances and showing strong defensive plays, despite being 33 and making $3.8 million.