Caray Is Back in the Booth : Baseball: Cubs’ broadcaster makes his return to Wrigley, but says he won’t go on the road for a while.

Harry Caray returned to Wrigley Field on Friday, his first appearance in the broadcast booth in nearly a month, saying he feels good but will not make a road trip until September.

“I’ve been lying on my back, not able to do anything or say anything,” said Caray, 74, who was hospitalized after falling June 23 in Miami when he was overcome by the heat.

Caray, who doctors found had an irregular heartbeat, was the center of attention before the Cubs’ 7-6 victory over Cincinnati on Friday, greeted by cheering fans as his limousine pulled up outside Wrigley Field. He has not attended a home game since June 12, the day before Ryne Sandberg surprised baseball by announcing his retirement.

Sandberg also was back at Wrigley Field on Friday to take part in ceremonies for the “Walk of Fame,” a collection of plaques on the sidewalk outside the ballpark.

“I feel good, I’m happy and having fun,” Sandberg said. “I’m doing a lot of things that I’ve wanted to do in the summer with my family.”

Caray went right back to work, taping his pre-game radio show with Tom Trebelhorn, and the Chicago Cubs manager signed off saying, “Harry, everything’s in place. I’m ready, you’re ready -- let’s go.”

Caray said he’s received cards and letters from around the country, although not as many as when he had a stroke in 1987. His fans knew he would be back this time.

“This might be my chance to thank everyone for the Mass and cards and letters and all the prayers,” he said. “I can’t acknowledge everyone individually. I just want everyone to know how much I appreciate their gestures.”

The Cubs announced they will celebrate “Harry Caray Day” on Aug. 27 before their game with the New York Mets. Caray began his major league broadcasting career in 1945 with the St. Louis Cardinals. He joined the Cubs in 1982.

“I’m so happy the people still like me,” he said. “Let me tell you one thing, I love them.”

Doctors have ordered Caray to restrict his travel, but he was expected to make the Sept. 2-4 trip to Philadelphia, and the Sept. 16-21 trip to San Diego and San Francisco.

He also must curtail his alcohol consumption, which means no more cold beers, unless they’re the non-alcoholic kind.

“I’m reduced to drinking O’Doul’s,” Caray said. “Can you imagine Harry Caray unable to drink a martini? Without a cold Budweiser? It’s not me.”

It’s tough to imagine Wrigley Field and the Cubs without Caray, who is celebrating his 50th year of broadcasting.