CHICAGO - The Chicago Cubs have officially launched their Wrigley Field renovation project with a groundbreaking ceremony that included Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.
From a podium in the infield, Selig recalled his first visit to the century-old ballpark, in May 1944, just shy of his 10th birthday. He said Wrigley Field took hold of a special place in his heart ''right then and there.''
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel also attended Saturday's ceremony.
The first phase of the privately funded $575 million project will add new bleachers and seven outfield signs.
Work actually started in September after the season ended, despite a legal feud between the team and owners of rooftop clubs, who fear their views into the stadium will be blocked.