Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein yesterday talked up the plans for a Wrigley Field renovation (on the same day he was invited to celebrate Fenway Park’s 100 year anniversary, the place where he last watched an historic ballpark undergo a massive renovation).
‘‘It has a chance to affect our on-field product in a couple of ways,’’ Epstein said of a renovation, in a conversation with reporters. ‘‘One is that a renovated Wrigley will put our players in a better position to succeed, so they can prepare better, they can take care of their bodies better, with a modern clubhouse, modern training room, modern BP tunnel, modern video rooms.”
In other words: the Cubs remain at a competitive disadvantage with Wrigley Field as it stands today. And then Epstein drove the point home.
‘‘And usually a renovated ballpark leads to more revenue to pour back into the Major League team and continue to improve the product on the field.’’
Indeed. Keep stumping, Theo. This is good, and it’s a reminder of yet another reason why the Cubs’ on-field fortunes could change for the better over the next five, ten years, if only we’re patient.
There were a few good articles this week on the Wrigley Field renovation and related funding, each of which is worth a read if you’re into this issue.