Closing of Wrigley Field's DraftKings sportsbook could be a huge plus for Cubs fans

When I first received the notification that the DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field would be closing, I was shocked - but as details trickled in, it was far less of a dramatic bit of news than I initially believed.

The sportsbook, which is located adjacent to the Friendly Confines on its south side near the intersection of Addison and Sheffield, isn't going to be closing, per se. The on-site sportsbook operation will close at the end of May, but the establishment itself - which will retain DraftKings branding - will solely operate as a sports bar moving forward.

DraftKings cited a high 'cost of operating', including increased fees and taxes in Illinois, as the reason behind the move - marking the end of a two-year run. Given the ease and prevalence of online sports betting in the state, I personally can't say most fans I know have viewed the sportsbook as anything more than what it will officially be moving forward: a nice sports bar.

This could give Cubs fans a great indoor space to enjoy on gameday

This news might not seem important to most of you, and I understand why. But the Cubs' announced plans to improve access to the bar for fans at Wrigley Field is a huge plus to the gameday experience, enhancing indoor seating options to wait out weather delays or seek refuge from hot summer temperatures, especially during afternoon games.

“DraftKings bar and restaurant will remain open on both game and non-gamedays, offering an elevated sports bar environment for Wrigleyville visitors year-round,” Cubs spokesperson Jennifer Martinez said in a statement. “Later this season, we expect to create a seamless flow between the bar and the ballpark concourse, making the space a great gameday option for Cubs ticketholders.”

Currently, there are little to no accessible indoor options for standard ticket holder. The Wrigley Field renovation saw an explosion of luxury spaces at the ballpark, including the 1914 Club and Maker's Mark Barrel Room, but gameday access to the DraftKings space later this season could change that, hopefully bringing a welcome change for fans in all sections.

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