by Jeff Axelrod

Created on: August 16, 2008

Chicago Cubs fans are among the most passionate fans in all of sports, and they deserve an equally passionate owner.

Based on his track record, Mark Cuban certainly qualifies.

And actually, the more you think about it, the more baseball needs a character like Mark Cuban around. Baseball's upper echelon is dominated by faceless corporations and boring old men.

Remember when Ted Turner owned the Atlanta Braves back in the 1970s? He was young, brash and confident, full of fire and bravado. He raised the team's profile immensely - even going so far as to dub it "America's Team," thanks to its national exposure on Superstation WTBS.

Remember Charlie Finley of the Oakland A's? As an owner, he was flamboyant, hands-on, and more than a little crazy. Yet he also put together a team that was one of the most dominant the American League had ever seen.

And what about Bill Veeck? Yes, he was eccentric, but he was one of the most masterful showmen that baseball has ever seen, and one of its true pioneers.

With the notable exception of George Steinbrenner (who's now removed himself from much of the day-to-day operations of the New York Yankees), how many of today's owners can you name? How many of today's owners inspire passion in their teams and their fans?

Baseball needs Mark Cuban to challenge the status quo. Baseball needs Mark Cuban to light a fire beneath a sport whose image has stagnated.

Let's face it: Baseball fans wildly cheer managers who kick dirt, toss bases, and throw tantrums when they believe the umpires have blown a call. Baseball fans love showmanship, and they love somebody who will stand up for their team. And that's exactly what Mark Cuban has a history of doing.

Mark Cuban also has a strong commitment to fielding winning teams. Ever since he took over the Dallas Mavericks, the team has never had a winning percentage of less than .622, and the team has gone to the playoffs every year.

(For those who suggest that having an owner like Mark Cuban does not mesh well with the Cubs' "Lovable Losers" image, you might want to check baseball's current standings - as of August 15, no team in baseball has more wins than the Cubs.)

Mark Cuban is loud, passionate, and loves baseball. And if he just happens to have enough money to buy the team, I can't think of any better qualifications - because they match the traits of the typical Cubs fan.

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