Would you feel safe going to a Cubs or Sox game this season? Here’s what Chicagoans say.

Some can’t wait to get back to ‘the smell of the grass, grilled hot dogs popcorn, the sound of the bat as it connects with the ball.’ Others say: Why take that risk?

SHARE Would you feel safe going to a Cubs or Sox game this season? Here’s what Chicagoans say.
Chicagoans are torn about whether or not it’s safe to go to a baseball game this summer.

Chicagoans are torn about whether or not it’s safe to go to a baseball game this summer.

Mark Black/AP

We asked Chicagoans: If the Cubs and White Sox are allowed to let a limited number of fans attend games this year, would you feel safe going to a ballgame? Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.

“I can’t imagine taking a risk like that for a game. I understand wanting a distraction and a return to a sense of normalcy. But I also understand the dire consequences that could come from making that choice. I’ll pass.” — Eric Anderson

“Yes, I would. I miss baseball. The smell of the grass, grilled hot dogs popcorn, the sound of the bat as it connects with the ball. I would feel normal again.” — Scott Robertson

“I’m 100 percent interested. I would still feel the need to wear a mask and limit interaction with other fans. Hand-sanitizer stations and testing sights near/inside would definitely ease my worries.” —Trevor Arbogast

“I’m a big Cubs fan and love going to games, but, no, not going this year. I would rather just go next summer, when there hopefully is not a pandemic. Will definitely be tuning in on Marquee, though.” — Paul Dipping

“Yes. If you don’t wanna go, don’t. Sports fans want to attend games, and we know the risk we are taking.” — Collin Miller

“This will be the 1st time in over 20 years I have not been to Wrigley. I think I’ll have to pass. I’m in that dangerous age group. Can’t risk getting sick.” — Sharon Naftzger Woodring

“I’d be down to attend a game towards the end of the season or give support to the White Sox by buying a ticket and not attending.” — Oscar Sandoval

“No, I would love to attend a Cubs game, but I have an issue using public bathrooms now.” — Linda Kole

“I would love to see our Cubbies play. Wrigley is the only place I’d go with a large gathering!” — Jan Stammis

“Absolutely, wouldn’t miss it. Would be safe in the open air.” — Debbie Ochwat

“Sure, why not. If I can go to a packed grocery store to shop, I can go to a game. Especially if there’s social distancing and limited seating.” — Eric Joseph Brasel

“Yes! I think I’d feel safe sitting in an open-air venue where it’s very easy to social distance. However, the bathrooms and snacking might be a problem. Go, Sox!” — Lino Galvan

“Nope. I can see the action better on TV in my air-conditioned house.” — Sharon Hunt Gonzales

“Depends on how many are allowed, how they space seating and mask requirements.” — Michael Horsky

“Nope. I love my Cubbies, but my health is more important than paying $8 for a beer.” — Andrew Lyon

“Yes, I’d be interested in going. This year has been dreadful, and going to watch my Cubbies or even the White Sox will take my mind off this horrible year while I enjoy watching my favorite sport.” — Santos Aranda

“No, they shouldn’t even be playing. It’s pure greed on both sides.” — Ed Wieczorek

“Yes yes yes! This would be one of the only years in my life I haven’t gone to a game if they don’t open to fans.” — Denise Moore

“I’ll watch the Cubs play baseball at Wrigley Field as long as there’s ivy on the walls. The umpire and the catchers already wear masks, so I can, too.” — Brian Shields

“No. Not worth putting my family and friends at risk.” — Karen Slechta Hovorka

“Nope. I’m not going to any large gatherings until 2021.” — Sjonia Harper

“Too many droplets swirling around.” — Molly Friedberg Solik

“My heart says yes, but my brain says no. I am in that high-risk group but also the biggest Cubs fan ever.” — Louise Cerpa

“Hell, yes. I will wear a mask if needed but need to see my White Sox!.” — Julie Deischer

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