photo credit: delusionalcubsfan
Is this really the home of a baseball team?
Arizona lawmakers are trying to pass a bill that will keep the Cubs in Arizona for Spring Training. Now, I know that pro sports teams are “cash cows” that can bring in alot of revenue. But in this economy are the Cubs REALLY that important?
The Arizona legislature is planning on levying some kind of tax that will raise $59 million to put towards a new spring training facility for the Cubs. Now, correct me if I’m wrong, but how is it that the state of Arizona has to raise this money? Can’t the Cubs foot the bill for this, and if they can’t why won’t they just do without?
I know that everyone likes new stuff and wants new stuff, but how are we supposed to take the Cubs seriously when they want $59 million from Arizona just to stay there. If you can’t find the funds then move!
If I’m the State I’m seriously considering telling the Cubs to kick rocks. It’s not like they are the only team who trains in Arizona, and I’m sure you could find a better suitor who would carry their fair share.
This also clinches for me the idea that the Cubs are not a baseball team, but an entertainment enterprise. Apparently, the draw of the Cubs is enough to bring people to Arizona in enough masses to pay for a $59 million bill. I’m not saying that baseball teams aren’t providing entertainment, but I’m saying that you can’t JUST be entertainment.
People argue this alot…are Cubs fans baseball fans? I don’t think so. There might be some small clusters who enjoy baseball, but not very many.
The Cubs are also saying that their “Wrigley experience” that has millions of fans turning out every year won’t pay for new spring training facilities. Huh?
Honestly, if the Cubs are a baseball team they’ll pay for their new facility out of pocket. If they’re an entertainment enterprise then they can skip spring training altogether. It hasn’t helped for the last 102 years…why bother continuing the charade now?
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