Angels’ Mike Trout looking forward to first game in Wrigley Field
CHICAGO — Mike Trout received some sound advice before playing his first game in Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, Tuesday night.
“Don’t run into the wall full speed,” the Angels center fielder said.
The walls of the 99-year-old park, known as the “Friendly Confines,” are anything but friendly. Behind the lush, green layer of ivy on the fence is solid brick, one of several challenges for those who have never played in Wrigley.
Another is the wind, which often blows out but sometimes can swirl or gust violently, wreaking havoc on fly balls and popups.
“The wind probably plays here more than in any park in baseball,” said Angels Manager Mike Scioscia, who played here as a catcher with the Dodgers. “It can turn routine fly balls into home runs.”
Trout’s response, when he heard about the wind?
“It’s going to be fun out there,” the 21-year-old said. “I like going to the old stadiums. Fenway Park in Boston is really cool. I’m going to walk around tomorrow and check this place out.”
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