The Chicago Cubs: More Expensive Than Your Baseball Card Collection (Probably)
Ah, the Chicago Cubs. A team steeped in history, with a fan base as loyal as they come (and maybe a touch superstitious). But let's face it, these days, owning a baseball team ain't exactly pocket change. So, how much would it cost to snag this legendary franchise? Buckle up, baseball fans, we're about to delve into the deep pockets of billionaire territory.
From Ricketts to Riches: A Price on Wrigleyville
Back in 2009, the Ricketts family snatched up the Cubs for a cool $845 million. That's like finding a mint-condition Mickey Mantle card under your couch cushions... only a much, much bigger couch. But just like a fine wine (or a well-aged baseball bat), the Cubs have only gotten more valuable with time.
Worth More Than Wrigley Field Itself (Maybe)
By 2022, Forbes estimated the Cubs to be worth a whopping $3.8 billion. That's enough to buy Wrigley Field a few times over, with enough leftover for a lifetime supply of hot dogs and seventh-inning stretch peanuts (important for fan morale, you see).
Breaking the Billion Dollar Barrier: The Cubs Go Galactic (Figuratively)
Fast forward to 2023, and the Cubs blasted past the $4 billion mark for the first time ever. That's right, folks, this team is worth more than some small countries (no offense to those countries, they're probably lovely). As of today, May 5th, 2024, the latest estimates put the Cubs at a sizzling $4.225 billion.
So, Can You Afford the Cubs?
Let's be honest, unless you've got a Scrooge McDuck money vault in your backyard, probably not. But hey, a man (or woman) can dream, right? In the meantime, there's always the joy of cheering on your team, the thrill of the game, and the hope that maybe, just maybe, you'll snag a foul ball and sell it for a small fortune (enough to buy a decent box of Cracker Jacks, at least).
