On the Beat at Wrigley Field for Game 3 of the NLDS

Getting Press Credentials at Wrigley Field during the regular season is difficult at best.  The Cubs are always in demand, even when they are struggling and the Press Box is not exceptionally large.  Getting Press Credentials for any of the playoff games was next to impossible, yet I pulled some strings and got lucky with credentials for Game 3 of the National League Division Series.

With the series tied at one, Game 3 was very important.  It was also the hottest ticket in town and yet, there I was heading into Wrigley.

I joked that the Presbox served Pepsi (which as a staunch Coke guy is off limits), but I wouldn't complain.  Heck, they could have served warm Diet Pepsi and I would not have complained.  (I chose water over Pepsi, but I did not complain).

I was treated to a great game.  The Cubs won 8-4 to take a 2-1 lead in the series with Game 4 last night.

Records seemed to be falling left and right.  The Cubs hit 6 home runs in the game.  The first six batters in the order hit a home run at some point.  Jorge Soler continued his post-season perfection and now stands at 4-4 with 5 walks in 9 plate appearances.

This Cubs team is young, talented, deep and likable.  It is poised for a long-term run of success.  Maybe this is why there does not seem to be the desperation I have seen during other playoff appearances by the Cubs.

It was a thrilling experience.  I appreciate everything about it.  I took my own advice and soaked in every minute.

On a related note, a couple years ago, Johngy's Beat landed an interview with Michael Wacha, the losing pitcher.  Chuck Gekas handled the questioning and Wacha was very gracious in giving his time while signing autographs before the game.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Michael Wacha.

Me in Chicago, IL-October 2015.