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Cubs' Zambrano: ready to replace Wrigley?
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There's no question that one of Chicago's biggest landmarks is Wrigley Field -- the old stadium just north of downtown that the Cubs have called home since 1916. Behind Boston's Fenway Park, Wrigley Field is the second oldest major league stadium.
Having lived within walking distance of Wrigley several years ago, I can attest to the ballpark's charm and draw for the millions of fans that fill the seats every year. The bleacher seats, ballpark ivy, Old Style beer and unpredictable gameday wind all make Wrigley unique. Despite the lack of amenities, the experience keeps people coming back for consistent gameday sell-outs.
This is why it was disappointing hear Cubs' pitcher, Carlos Zambrano, tell the Associated Press Saturday that he wishes Chicago would provide the team with a new stadium.The always entertaining Zambrano -- never short of words -- was no doubt just spewing off in reaction to visiting the new Yankee digs, which is clearly impressive:
"You come into a ballpark like this and you see great things," Zambrano said. "You wish that Chicago'd build a new stadium for the Cubs."
As a fan, replacing Wrigely is a sad thought. As a player, however, it's been no secret that the aging ballpark provides a less-than-comfortable clubhouse and poor general player accomodations. Cubs manager, Lou Piniella, does not echo Big Z's sentiment and says that there is no better time of year than when the Wrigely ivy turns green:
"Wrigley's got its own uniqueness. There's no question the facilities need to be redone, but that's going to happen," said Pinella. "It's really a great environment to play a ballgame."
At some point in the near future, it is inevitable that the Cubs' faithful will be cheering on their squad in a new stadium. With no World Series title in a century, maybe it's the change the Cubbies need to finally make it there. For now, the fans want to preserve their lovable losers in the Friendly Confines as long as possible. What do you think -- time for a new stadium or keep on filling those outffield bleacher seats?
Update: Zambrano now claims he was misquoted and never said he wished the city would build a new stadium.
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