Cubs' Epstein uses rain delay as inspirational metaphor in speech to Yale students

Theo Epstein, one of the architects behind the Chicago Cubs' return to World Series glory, spoke with Yale students at the school's annual Class Day. Epstein, a Yale grad from 1995, channeled Cubs manager Joe Maddon, telling the undergrads, "if you look hot, wear it."

He spoke about how when Game 7 of the 2016 World Series seemed firmly in hand, his son even continued updating him on their statistical odds of winning. Epstein used the rain delay from the game as a catalyst for the inspiration of his players, but also connected it to how it's applicable to everyday situations, according to Cut4's Gemma Kaneko.

"... We all have our rain delay moments," Epstein said. "There will be times when everything you have been wanting, everything you have worked for, everything you have earned, everything you feel you deserve is snatched away in what seems like a personal and unfair blow. This, I will tell them, is called life. But when these moments happen, and they will, will you be alone at your locker with your head down, lamenting, divvying up blame; or will you be shoulder to shoulder with your teammates, connected, with your heads up, giving and receiving support?"

The rest of the speech, the text of which can be found here, goes further into the specifics of the rain delay and how the Cubs came together as a team after surrendering a late lead in order to win the World Series in extra innings.