What's Happening?
The Chicago Cubs are set to honor their World Series championship teams with a new archway monument at the Clark Street entrance of Gallagher Way. This monument will commemorate the Cubs' three World Series victories
in 1907, 1908, and 2016. The unveiling is scheduled for July 17, coinciding with a celebration of the 2016 championship team. The monument will feature narratives by historian Ed Hartig and include the names of players and coaches from each championship season. Additionally, the Cubs' Marquee Sports Network is adapting to changes in media consumption by reducing the number of spring training games broadcasted and expanding streaming options. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to navigate the evolving media landscape, which has seen a decline in cable subscribers.
Why It's Important?
The creation of the World Series archway monument is significant as it provides a lasting tribute to the Cubs' historic achievements, fostering a sense of pride and continuity among fans. It also reflects the team's commitment to celebrating its heritage while looking forward to future successes. On the media front, the adjustments to Marquee Sports Network's broadcasting strategy highlight the challenges faced by sports franchises in adapting to the digital age. As more consumers shift away from traditional cable, the Cubs' move to enhance streaming options demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining fan engagement and revenue streams. This shift is crucial for the Cubs and other MLB teams as they navigate the financial implications of changing media consumption habits.
What's Next?
The Cubs are expected to announce new streaming distributors for Marquee Sports Network closer to the start of the regular season, which could further expand their audience reach. The unveiling of the World Series archway monument in July will likely draw significant attention and attendance from fans, providing an opportunity for the Cubs to strengthen their community ties. Additionally, the broader MLB landscape may see further changes as teams and the league explore new broadcasting models to address the challenges posed by the decline in cable subscriptions. The Cubs' approach to maintaining control over their media content could serve as a model for other teams considering similar strategies.
