Cubs can't resist itch to stick underwear logo in outfield

February 15, 2007
BY GORDON WITTENMYER Staff Reporter
MESA, Ariz. -- First came the lights, and now ads amid the ivy? What's next, $8 beers and $100 million ballplayers? Wait a minute...

Well, anyway, the Cubs finally have relented to the lure of so-called ''creative revenue streams'' to the extent that the two outfield doors at Wrigley Field will bear advertising in 2007 for the first time since the ivy started creeping in the 1930s.

Under Armour, which makes the ''moisture-wicking'' sports underwear popular among professional athletes for the last decade, will have its logo displayed on the doors starting with the April 9 home opener.

''The Chicago Cubs' mission is to develop a winning culture, and our partnership with Under Armour reflects that vision,'' marketing and sales director Jay Blunk said in a statement released by the team. ''The Cubs are committed to finding alternative and creative revenue streams to build the championship team our fans richly deserve.''

Does that mean they can afford a No. 2 starter?

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