Cubs Explained Presented by @eero Episode 2: The Basket

Cubs Explained Presented by @eero Episode 2: The Basket

The basket on the outfield wall is the final barrier between our players and fans. But why is Wrigley Field the only MLB ballpark that has it? The structure of the fence is simple metal posts and aluminum mesh. The posts are roughly 46 in in length that juts out 36 in from the wall at a 45° angle. This simple fence construction creates the basket and runs from fowl pole to fowl pole. The basket hasn’t always been here, and we have bleacher bums to thank for this architectural quirk. Prior to 1970, some Bleacher fans apparently had no fear of the 11 ft drop that separated them from the outfield. Bleacher Bums were known to stand and even walk along the top of the ledge of the wall, and sometimes they’d fall off it. Here’s Cubs player Willie Smith helping a bum climb back to where he came from. Thanks, Willie. A brawl on opening day in 1970 was the last straw and with the coordination of the city of Chicago and MLB, the basket was announced on April 16th of 1970. It was originally designed to mount at the top of the wall, but was eventually lowered to improve visibility and not raise the requirements of a home run. The fence worked. It created a buffer zone that kept bleacher bums off the field and limited fan interference. Unlike other parks where a yellow line determines a home run or where a fan can reach over and interfere with the play. Oh yeah, that hit the fan. Yeah, that’s a home run. That was clearly over the yellow line and that fan didn’t reach down. Error on the fan. Home run for the Cubs. The basket provides a clear physical boundary. No risk of fan interference, no debate. Paired with the iconic Bricks and Ivy, the basket ensures the friendly confines outfield wall remains the most unique in all of Major League Baseball. The basket solved the problem of bleacher bums falling onto the field. Although occasionally some do fall directly into the basket. Hey, progress comes in baby steps.