Sections of Wrigley Field's iconic bleachers were filled with fans for the first time this season.
The outfield seating had been closed to the public while work continued on renovations for the cozy neighborhood ballpark. But the Chicago Cubs opened the bleachers in left and center field for Monday night's game against the New York Mets.
Among the first people to make it to their new seats was long-time Cubs fan Christopher Sorlie, who sprinted to his spot, yelling the whole way. Sorlie says "You just feel the energy in the crowd today - it's unbelievable."
The new and improved Budweiser Bleachers in left and center field were the first section to open, featuring “new group spaces, improved concessions and additional room for fans to socialize and watch the game,” the Cubs said in a release.
Work will continue throughout May and June as the team finishes the spaces with the right field bleachers likely opening by June 11.
The newly renovated stands will feature new video boards and signage that will show game and player stats, video replays, historical Cubs footage and behind-the-scenes interviews with the team along with baseball content from around the league.
They will also include portable and fixed concessions and vendors, an outdoor concession area and a larger variety of food options, officials said. Those features are slated to be available until early June.
“There’s no experience quite like sitting in the Budweiser Bleachers for a Cubs game,” said Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney. “With new group spaces, wider concourses and expanded concession service, we are excited to open the Budweiser Bleachers for our next homestand and celebrate the relaunch of one of the most popular seats in sports with our legacy partner, Anheuser-Busch.”
The Cubs plan to begin “Budweiser Bleachers Fridays” on certain dates during the 2015 season, which will include pre- or post-game entertainment, giveaways and special food and beverage options.
Chicago Baseball
This year’s schedule features a post-game Extra innings Show for all game attendees on July 10 with a performance by Fitz & The Tantrums. There will also be a beach bash, a country day, a red, white and brew day, a ‘90s day and a singles and doubles day.
The bleachers have been an area of concern for fans after an unusually early start to winter put the field’s renovation project behind schedule. Opening night at the field featured the unfinished bleachers as a backdrop and forced some season ticket holders to be relocated.
