A few days ago, CBS Chicago quoted MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred as saying, “It makes sense the Cubs get an opportunity ahead after the new renovations are complete.”  He went on to say, “This will provide the Cubs and Ricketts family a chance to showcase the unbelievable renovation they are in the midst of doing for Wrigley Field. Timing wise, we have the schedule of cities set through Washington ( in 2018). We will have an open and complete competition for the All-Star Game beyond that time.”

Naturally, the commissioner’s words have stirred speculation and hopes among Cubs fans for the opportunity to host the 2019 All-Star Game.  Sporting News also made note of the commissioner’s quotes although refrained from speculation.  Fox Sports went out on the limb a bit more to suggest that the Cubs are likely to host the game in the near future while hinting at the 2019 season.  Chicago Now has placed their guess on the year 2020, rather than 2019.  Our readers may remember that ASG News speculated that it was possible for Chicago to leapfrog L.A. because of their renovations, although for now our projection for 2019 continues to be Toronto, given that the National League will have hosted four years in a row, and it’s certainly possible that the Wrigley renovations might not be completely wrapped up in time.

While the location for the 2019 All-Star Game is still unknown, we know that the commissioner has his eye on Chicago.  The city certainly is due to host the game soon and the excitement around their renovations could help them cut to the front of the line.  Cubs fans have taken the commissioner’s latest statement as a good sign that they will have the opportunity to showcase a renovated Wrigley Field soon after the project is completed.