The Forgotten Story of #44
Phil Cavarretta’s #44 was retired in 1954, but shortly after the Cubs announced this honor, he was fired by P. K. Wrigley after the two had a behind the scenes disagreement with the Cubs owner. Right after that, Cavarretta committed the greatest sin of all and signed with the White Sox. He fell out of favor with the Wrigleys and the number was not “officially” retired. Number 44 later was given toBurt Hooton in 1971, but only after clubhouse manager Yosh Kawano personally spoke to Phil Cavarretta to receive his permission. It’s been worn by 14 other players since.