Meaning: This quote by John McGraw, a legendary figure in baseball as a player and manager, provides insight into the level of achievement and greatness in the sport. McGraw, who managed the New York Giants from 1902 to 1932, understood the challenges and significance of winning pennants in baseball. The quote emphasizes the rarity and distinction of a team that can win three consecutive pennants, elevating them to a level of greatness in the sport.

In the context of baseball, winning a pennant refers to clinching the championship of a league, such as the National League or the American League, before advancing to the World Series. This achievement is a testament to a team's consistency, competitiveness, and overall performance throughout the regular season and, often, the postseason.

McGraw's statement reflects the demanding nature of baseball and the high standard he set for what constitutes an outstanding and great team. He suggests that winning a single pennant may be a result of a combination of factors such as luck, talent, and timing, but it does not necessarily establish a team as outstanding. This viewpoint aligns with the understanding that a single successful season does not fully capture the essence of greatness in a sport that demands enduring excellence.

The notion of a team that wins two pennants being considered good acknowledges the accomplishment of consistently performing at a high level over multiple seasons. It demonstrates a level of sustained success and competitiveness that distinguishes the team as good, but not necessarily great. Winning two pennants implies a certain degree of skill, determination, and strategic prowess, but it falls short of the exceptional achievement that McGraw reserves for a team that wins three consecutive pennants.

The emphasis on winning three pennants in a row as the hallmark of greatness underscores the rarity and difficulty of such a feat. It requires not only exceptional talent and skill but also unwavering focus, resilience, and the ability to navigate the challenges and pressures of consecutive seasons at the highest level of competition. A team that achieves this level of sustained success establishes a legacy of greatness that transcends individual seasons and cements its place in the annals of baseball history.

McGraw's quote serves as a reminder of the enduring pursuit of greatness in sports and the significance of sustained excellence. It also highlights the enduring impact of achieving greatness in a sport as steeped in tradition and history as baseball. The quote resonates with fans, players, and managers alike, serving as a standard by which to measure the most exceptional teams in the sport's rich tapestry.

In conclusion, John McGraw's quote encapsulates the essence of greatness in baseball, emphasizing the rarity and significance of a team that can win three consecutive pennants. It underscores the distinction between mere success and enduring greatness, setting a high standard for what truly defines an outstanding and exceptional team in the sport. McGraw's perspective continues to resonate in the world of baseball, serving as a reminder of the enduring pursuit of greatness and the legacy of those teams that achieve it.