Iowa Cubs Unveil 50th Anniversary Logo

DES MOINES - The Iowa Cubs, formerly the Iowa Oaks, are proud to unveil a commemorative logo for 2018 in celebration of the 50th season of Triple-A baseball in Des Moines.

The logo, designed by Minor League Baseball, pays tribute to both the Oaks (1969-1981) and the Cubs (1982-present), while depicting the iconic green roofing of Principal Park.

"Fifty years of Triple-A baseball in Des Moines is no small feat," said Iowa Cubs President and General Manager Sam Bernabe. "We are proud and excited to celebrate Des Moines' rich baseball history. This logo embodies who we are, and who we have been, throughout our history here."
"It's been a great fifty years and I look forward to the next fifty," said Michael Gartner, the 79-year-old Chairman and Principal Owner of the team.
Promotions in 2018 will be dedicated to Iowa's 50 seasons of Triple-A baseball. A schedule of events will be announced at a later date.
Iowa Cubs History
The relationship between Des Moines and professional baseball dates back to 1887 when the Des Moines Hawkeyes of the Northwestern League played its inaugural season in the city. Baseball would come and go over the years, eventually coming to stay in 1969 after a seven-year hiatus. The Iowa Oaks, an Oakland A's affiliate, was the first Triple-A team to play in Des Moines.
In 1981, the Oaks became the affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, a partnership that remains to this day. The following season, the Oaks rebranded to mirror the parent team and have remained the Iowa Cubs since.
Looking Ahead
Prior to the 2017 season, the Iowa Cubs made a series of moves to ensure the longevity and stability of baseball in Des Moines. Principal Financial extended its stadium marketing contract until 2027 - meaning the stadium will continue to be know as Principal Park - and the team extended its lease on the city-owned property until 2037. Iowa's player development contract with the Chicago Cubs was also extended through the 2020 season.