Kris Bryant Credits Joe Maddon in Big Way for Cubs World Series Victory in 2016

Joe Maddon is probably the best manager in the Chicago Cubs' nearly 135-year history. He brought them to four straight postseasons for the first time ever and broke the team's 108-year World Series drought in 2016.

Some Cubs fans and players were then, understandably, very sad when Maddon wasn't asked to return to the Cubs and left for the Los Angeles Angels this past offseason. There's absolutely no animosity between him and his former club, however, as Cubs All-Star third baseman Kris Bryant spoke glowingly about Maddon on Monday.

Hard to argue with that. The man did everything he was brought in to do and more.

Maddon's managerial decisions weren't the only reason he was so successful. He allowed for team bonding and for the players to have fun. He organized pregame petting zoo trips, pajama road trips, and once had three pitchers play left field in the same game. He kept it loose and made sure everyone was enjoying themselves.

Bryant is probably right in saying what he did. The young, impressionable team needed a coach like Maddon, and he delivered. He'll forever be a Cubs legend for that.