Gambling could soon become a fixture at Wrigley Field. (Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports)
Gambling could soon become a fixture at Wrigley Field. (Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports)

Cubs considering adding sportsbook to Wrigley Field


by - Senior Writer -

CHICAGO — The Windy City could soon become a little more like Sin City, as the ripple effect of the last year's Supreme Court ruling that opened the door for states to legalize sports gambling has reached Chicago. On Saturday, an article written by ESPN columnist David Purdum reported that the Chicago Cubs organization is considering opening a gambling sportsbook at Wrigley Field.

Although the Cubs declined to comment on the rumor when contacted about it, as there are no official plans for implementing the sportsbook at this point in time, the timing of the rumors makes sense, considering that Illinois' law that will legalize sports betting is set to take effect soon. Reportedly, other professional sports franchises in Chicago are considering adding sportsbooks to their venues, as well.

The sportsbook under consideration at Wrigley could reportedly include automated kiosks and betting windows. Interestingly, Major League Baseball currently prohibits sportsbooks at its parks but, according to Purdum, is looking into nixing that restriction due to the changing climate in the sports-gambling scene. MLB was asked to comment on the rumors surrounding the proposed Friendly Confines sportsbook and responded in a way that indicates that betting could soon be embraced by the league.

The MLB spokesperson reached by Purdum said, "We will work with our clubs to explore the opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving sports betting landscape in a socially responsible manner."

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