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Watching batting practice gives fans an opportunity to see players up close and personal. Some players use this time to sign autographs and interact with fans. But what about Chicago Cubs games at Wrigley Field? Can you watch batting practice at Wrigley Field?
Yes, you can watch batting practice at Wrigley Field, although it’s worth noting that batting practice begins prior to the stadium gates opening, so fans will only be able to see part of batting practice. The official time that Chicago Cubs batting practice is held can change, but in general, you can expect batting practice to begin roughly two hours before game time. Typically, batting practice lasts 45-50 minutes per team.
Most MLB teams start batting practice approximately two and a half hours before game time, but according to the Cubs Information Guide (source), Cubs batting practice starts two hours before game time. In general, it is probably best to expect Cubs batting practice to begin somewhere between 2 to 2.5 hours before first pitch.
The Cubs will take batting practice first, since they are the home team. After that, the visiting team will take their batting practice. The length of batting practice can fluctuate day-to-day, but most teams stick to normal routines as much as possible.
Wrigley Field gates open 90 minutes prior to game time, except opening day which is 2 hours. Because of this, when fans enter the stadium, Cubs batting practice may already be underway, or near conclusion depending on start time. The road team will begin batting practice after the Cubs are finished.
Although batting practice is usually held, it is worth noting that there can be occasional exceptions due to weather or other circumstances. Batting practice time is at the manager’s discretion, but as I mentioned earlier, most teams stick to normal routines as much as possible.
Chicago Cubs Batting Practice Time
Can You Watch Batting Practice at Wrigley Field?
Yes, you can watch batting practice at Wrigley Field. As we discussed above, the official time that Chicago Cubs batting practice is held can change, but in general, you can expect batting practice to begin roughly 2 to 2.5 hours before game time.
The Chicago Cubs will take batting practice first, since they are the home team. After that, the visiting team will take their batting practice. The length of batting practice can fluctuate day-to-day, but batting practice usually lasts 45-50 minutes per team.
Wrigley Field gates open 2 hours prior to game time. Because of this, when fans enter the stadium, Cubs batting practice may already be underway, or near conclusion depending on start time. The road team will begin batting practice after the Cubs are finished.
The main takeaway is that even though, yes, fans are allowed to enter the stadium early to watch batting practice at Wrigley Field, because the gates only open 2 hours prior to first pitch, the Cubs will often be underway and some Cubs players may already be done. The road team will then take batting practice.
What Time do Gates Open for Batting Practice?
As we discussed above, Wrigley Field gates open 2 hours prior to game time (source). It is worth noting that gate times are always subject to change, but most teams stick to normal gate times as much as possible.
After the Cubs complete their portion of batting practice, the road team will take the field and hold batting practice. For more information on stadium gates, visit our Wrigley Field Gate & Parking Guide.
Do You Need a Ticket for Batting Practice?
You will, of course, need a game ticket to be able to enter Wrigley Field and watch batting practice, but you don’t need an additional ticket to be able to watch batting practice. If you are looking for other ways to get tickets, check out our article on the best places to find Chicago Cubs Tickets.
If you need tickets for an upcoming Chicago Cubs game, you can read more by visiting our article that discusses buying tickets at Wrigley Field. Also, if you are interested in buying Cubs gear to wear to the game, visit our Chicago Cubs jersey guide.
Other Things to do Besides Watching Batting Practice at Wrigley Field
If you are looking for something to do around Wrigley Field before or after the game, we recommend checking out Gallagher Way and Hotel Zachary. Both of these unique experiences you are not likely to find anywhere else.
- Zachary Field – is a must-have experience for the active fan who likes to socialize and experience Chicago culture. This turf and stone venue hosts some of the most spectacular events of the city, from movie screenings to concerts to farmers markets and more. If you want to get a feel for life in Chicago, this is the place to be.
- Hotel Zachary – is an attraction most fans won’t see but should definitely make an effort to if they can. Located at Gallagher Way, this luxury hotel is an architectural beauty that allows you to watch the game right from your bedroom window. Here, you can enjoy amazing amenities and food that is to-die-for while watching the Cubs score run after run.
Chicago Cubs Contact Info
This website (sportsfanfocus.com) has no affiliation with Wrigley Field, the Chicago Cubs, MLB, or any of the events hosted at this facility.
Any information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness, meaning much of this information is subject to change, and although we do our best to keep these guides updated, we can’t guarantee accuracy at all times. For all official information, we urge you to contact the Chicago Cubs staff. Contact information is below:
- Wrigley Field – View Stadium Information
- Chicago Cubs – View Contact Information
- Wrigley Field Parking Pass Information