Full Breakdown
The Controversy of "The Wave" at Wrigley Field
2/16/2026, 5:44:50 AM
Historical Context of "The Wave"
"The Wave," a celebratory movement where fans mimic the rolling motion of a wave around a stadium, has a contentious history, particularly among Chicago Cubs fans. While its origins are debated, ESPN attributes the first recorded instance to a game between the Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees in 1981, popularized by professional cheerleader "Krazy George" Henderson. However, for Cubs supporters, "The Wave" is inextricably linked to a painful moment in franchise history during the 1984 National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the San Diego Padres.
The 1984 NLCS and Its Aftermath
In 1984, the Cubs reached the NLCS for the first time in 39 years, winning the first two games at Wrigley Field. However, the series shifted to San Diego, where Cubs fans were subjected to the Padres' enthusiastic crowd performing "The Wave" repeatedly. This experience became emblematic of the Cubs' downfall, as they lost the final three games of the series by a combined score of 20-9, missing out on a World Series appearance. Thomas Boswell, a noted baseball writer, remarked on the impact of "The Wave," suggesting it energized the Padres and contributed to their success in the series.
Current Sentiments at Wrigley Field
Since the 1984 NLCS, "The Wave" has become largely unwelcome at Wrigley Field. Attempts to initiate it are often met with boos and insults from fellow fans, reflecting a deep-seated disdain for the movement. This aversion has led to various expressions of opposition, including blog posts and merchandise, such as a t-shirt stating “No Wave at Wrigley.” As the Cubs prepare for their first playoff series against the Padres since that fateful 1984 matchup, the specter of "The Wave" looms large, with fans warning that anyone attempting to start it may face backlash.
Official Statements & Responses
Cubs fans have consistently expressed their disapproval of "The Wave," viewing it as a symbol of their team's past failures against the Padres. The collective sentiment is that the movement disrupts the traditional atmosphere of Wrigley Field, which is cherished by its loyal supporters.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of "The Wave" argue that it detracts from the game experience, suggesting that it is more suited to less experienced baseball towns. This perspective is rooted in the belief that the wave undermines the seriousness of the sport and the historical significance of the Cubs' legacy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In Games Three and Four, the ‘wave’ brought Jack Murphy Stadium alive and gave the Padres spirit and spine when they trailed in games they probably should have lost,” he wrote.” — Thomas Boswell, Baseball Writer
- “By Game Five, the Padres didn't need any surf for motivation. But, without the ‘wave,’ the genuinely firm feeling here is that there never would have been a fifth game.” — Thomas Boswell, Baseball Writer
As the Cubs face the Padres again, the legacy of "The Wave" serves as a reminder of past disappointments, shaping the current atmosphere at Wrigley Field.
