Cubs, WGN were Early Chicago Connections for Ben Johnson
A Lasting Legacy
Like so many Cubs fans around the country, Ben Johnson also ran inside to watch Cubs baseball on WGN after school.
A Childhood Fandom
In Johnson’s highly-anticipated introductory press conference, he mentioned that he and his family go to a Cubs game once a year.
A Roots of Fandom
Speaking with ESPN 1000’s Carmen and Jurko after the press conference, the new Bears head coach unveiled that his Cubs fandom goes back to the 90s.
“I still remember growing up and coming home from school, my brother and I, he’s three years younger than me, we would always turn on WGN when we came home,” Johnson said. “And there’s Harry Caray, there’s Mark Grace, there’s Ryne Sandberg — it got into the Sammy Sosa years. We followed it almost every single day that it was on.”
A Season Ticket Hold
Like other Cubs fans during the Lou Piniella era, Johnson’s younger brother put his name down for season tickets in 2007.
“It took about six to eight years but finally his name got to the top of it and he ended up getting four tickets,” Johnson said.
A Yearly Tradition
That began a yearly family tradition for the Johnson family with a trip to Chicago to see the Cubs.
“It was a great time for me and my family but we just fell in love with the city as well,” Johnson said.
His brother still has the tickets and Johnson said he lives in Manhattan and does well due to a degree from M.I.T.
A New Era
Johnson made it clear Wednesday that his top priority is to win right away.
Free agency kicks off on March 12 as GM Ryan Poles will look to reshape some of the roster.
Conclusion
Ben Johnson’s love for the Cubs and WGN is a testament to the lasting impact of childhood memories on our lives. As he takes on the challenge of leading the Bears, his dedication to his family and the city of Chicago will undoubtedly be a driving force behind his success.
FAQs
* How long has Ben Johnson been a Cubs fan?
+ Since the 90s
* What was his favorite part of watching Cubs games on WGN?
+ Watching Harry Caray, Mark Grace, and Ryne Sandberg
* Did his family have season tickets to Cubs games?
+ Yes, his younger brother put his name down for season tickets in 2007 and got four tickets
* What is Ben Johnson’s top priority as the new Bears head coach?
+ Winning right away
