Chicago — Night games at Wrigley Field would increase under a plan expected to be approved by Chicago officials this week.
The Cubs and the city have agreed to a plan that would phase in 12 more night games during the next three years. The Cubs currently are allowed to play 18 night games each season.
The team would be allowed to play 22 home night games this year and 26 in 2005. The total would increase to at least 28 in 2006 and possibly 30 that year. Alderman Tom Tunney said Monday the community could keep the limit at 28 in 2006 if there were issues with neighborhood protection.
A City Council committee will consider the plan today, and the full council will vote on it Wednesday.
The Cubs are the last team in the majors to play the majority of their home games in the afternoon. Lights were added to Wrigley Field in 1988, but city ordinance limits the Cubs to 18 night games per year.
The Cubs have been pushing for more night games the past few years, saying they will generate more revenue. Players want more night games, too. Playing in the midday heat takes a toll physically, and there are many times the Cubs return from a road trip late Thursday night and have to turn around and play Friday afternoon.
Many residents in the neighborhood around Wrigley opposed the request, saying additional night games would lead to more traffic, congestion and littering.
Under the proposed deal, the Cubs would operate a remote-parking lot and pay for a program that limits parking around Wrigley Field to residents on game nights. The Cubs also will contribute $1 million to a neighborhood protection fund.
Also Wednesday, the council is expected to vote on landmark status for Wrigley Field.
¢Offerman joins Twins: Jose Offerman agreed Monday to a minor-league contract with the Minnesota Twins, who have an opening for a utility infielder. Offerman, 35, spent last season with Bridgeport (Conn.) of the independent Atlantic League. The two-time All-Star and former Kansas City Royal last appeared in the majors in 2002, when he hit .232 for Boston and Seattle.
In other moves Monday, Seattle agreed to a $1 million, one-year contract with reliever Ron Villone, and the New York Mets said they were working on finalizing minor-league contracts with right-handers James Baldwin and Ricky Botallico, another ex-Royal.
¢Ryan leaves Rangers: Nolan Ryan ended his formal relationship Monday with the Texas Rangers, more than 10 years after the final pitch of his career. The Hall of Famer decided not to sign a new personal-services contract.
He spent his final five seasons (1989-93) with the Rangers.
¢Henson clears waivers: Drew Henson became a baseball free agent Monday when he cleared waivers without being claimed. The third baseman, who intends to pursue a career as an NFL quarterback, agreed last week to give up the $12 million remaining in the $17 million, six-year contract he agreed to with the Yankees in 2001. His NFL rights are held by the Houston Texans, who plan to showcase him for other teams during a workout Thursday.
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