
Aug 29, 2008 6:40 pm US/Central
'Wrigley Fields' Throws Out First Pitch For Cubs
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
What's in a name? If it's 'Wrigley Fields,' it can open doors on the North Side. A little boy got the thrill of his lifetime today - thanks to the Cubs.
CBS 2's Vince Gerasole reports that a Little Leaguer from Lockport scored a home run of a memory at Wrigley Field because his name is - Wrigley Fields.
There is just something special about your first game at Wrigley - especially when you're 7 years old.
"I didn't get to see a game ever," Wrigley said. "I am very excited because it's my first game and I get to throw out the first pitch."
When asked what he thinks of his name, Wrigley said, "I think it's the awesomest name ever!"
Dad Jerry did too, when some college buddies suggested it, long before Wrigley was a twinkle in his parents' eyes.
"I love this place, I always have," said Jerry Fields, Father. "I love the Cubs, but I love the park more."
Wrigley's mother, Kathy said she was a bit hesitant to name her son Wrigley.
"Absolutely," said Kathy Fields, Mother. "OK, maybe not right away. I fought it a little, but eventually gave in."
Describing his experience at Wrigley Field, Wrigley said, "It's really, really neat. I think I am seeing a lot of cool stuff. My dad said I can get all the junk food I want."
Wrigley said that his dad and his uncle Mike have been coaching him.
"I've been throwing the ball in my backyard and I can throw 80 feet," Wrigley said. "I get a good grip on it."
At 12:55 p.m., Wrigley Fields stepped onto Wrigley Field.
His parents naturally recorded Wrigley's communion with his namesake - and the rest of us witnessed the thrill of his impressive first pitch all the way to home plate.
Later, kicking back with a Pepsi, Wrigley reflected on his Major League debut.
"That was awesome," Wrigley said. "They said I threw the best one."
A name alone doesn't earn you the opening pitch. Wrigley's mom mentioned it to someone she met at a conference. It turns out he was a former Cubs official - the rest is now history.
And if you think Wrigley was too cute of a name for the Fields baby, remember, they could have called him Marshall.
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