Introduction to the 2027 MLB All-Star Game
Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs are expected to be named the hosts of the 2027 MLB All-Star Game, according to The Score’s Bruce Levine.
CHICAGO (WGN) — Levine said the news is expected to be official sometime later this summer.
History of All-Star Games at Wrigley Field
The last time Wrigley Field hosted an All-Star Game was July 10, 1990, when the American League defeated the National League 2-0 behind a 2-RBI double from the Texas Rangers’ Julio Franco.
Before 1990, Wrigley Field hosted two other All-Star Games—one in 1962, and another in 1947.
Security Concerns and Preparations
According to Levine, security concerns had long been the main roadblock to Wrigley Field being awarded another All-Star Game, with Major League Baseball being worried the ballpark could be the target of a coordinated attack. Those concerns were beginning to be addressed by the City of Chicago and the Cubs through the implementation of concrete bollards around the stadium.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the city, State of Illinois and the Cubs will split a $30 million tab under legislation proposed Wednesday at City Council.
Legislative Actions for Security
The ordinance, introduced by Ald. Bennett Lawson (44th Ward), calls for the installation of "anti-terrorism-rated removable bollards" around Wrigley and the widening of sidewalks along Addison Street.
“The beauty of Wrigley is we play in a neighborhood," Kenney told The Score in January. "That means active streets during the game, 40,000 people inside and a U-Haul truck that could have fertilizer in it rolling right past the gates. That’s no good, and the commissioner made it very clear that’s no good. Those streets need to be closed – not just from the moment the game starts but during the game.
Progress and Expectations
"Progress was made, and then Rahm [Emanuel] left office. Honestly, Mayor [Lori] Lightfoot made a lot of progress with the commissioner and a plan and then was not re-elected [in 2023]. So we picked up the torch with mayor [Brandon] Johnson, and he’s been making a lot of progress. And I think it’s a very realistic expectation for 2027 based on the conversations I’m aware of that are happening.”
Conclusion
The announcement of Wrigley Field hosting the 2027 MLB All-Star Game is a significant development, marking a return of the prestigious event to the historic ballpark after a long hiatus. The efforts to address security concerns and the cooperation among the city, state, and the Cubs have been instrumental in making this possibility a reality.
FAQs
- Q: When is Wrigley Field expected to host the MLB All-Star Game?
A: Wrigley Field is expected to host the 2027 MLB All-Star Game. - Q: What was the last time Wrigley Field hosted an All-Star Game?
A: The last time Wrigley Field hosted an All-Star Game was July 10, 1990. - Q: What were the main concerns that prevented Wrigley Field from being awarded another All-Star Game?
A: Security concerns, particularly the risk of a coordinated attack, were the main roadblocks. - Q: How are security concerns being addressed?
A: Through the implementation of concrete bollards around the stadium and the widening of sidewalks, among other measures. - Q: Who will cover the costs for the security improvements?
A: The city, State of Illinois, and the Cubs will split a $30 million tab.
