Wrigley's tenure as the Cubs' owner was marked by a number of significant events and decisions. One of the most notable was his decision to not install lights at Wrigley Field, making it the last Major League Baseball stadium to hold only day games, a tradition that lasted until 1988. Wrigley believed that baseball was a daytime sport and that installing lights would disrupt the neighborhood surrounding the stadium.
In 1937, Wrigley initiated a major renovation of Wrigley Field, which included the construction of the iconic ivy-covered outfield walls and the installation of the hand-operated scoreboard, both of which remain signature features of the stadium today.
Despite his love for the game, Wrigley's tenure was also marked by a lack of on-field success. The Cubs did not win a World Series under his ownership, and they only made it to the postseason a handful of times. Wrigley was often criticized for his hands-off approach to running the team, as he rarely interfered in baseball operations and instead focused on the fan experience.
In 1961, Wrigley made a significant contribution to women's baseball by founding the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). The league, which was created to keep baseball in the public eye while many male players were serving in World War II, was a major success and played a key role in advancing women's sports.
Wrigley was also known for his innovative marketing strategies. He was one of the first team owners to broadcast games on television and radio, and he introduced the concept of the "friendly confines" of Wrigley Field, a phrase that is still used to describe the stadium today.
Despite the Cubs' lack of success during his tenure, Wrigley's impact on the team and the sport of baseball was significant. His commitment to preserving the tradition and integrity of the game, his innovative marketing strategies, and his dedication to improving the fan experience have left a lasting legacy in the world of baseball.
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