Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
Wrigley Field has been home to some of baseball’s most iconic moments since its opening in 1914. From record-breaking performances to unforgettable games, here are the 10 greatest moments in the history of this beloved ballpark.
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Kerry Wood’s Masterful 20-Strikeout Performance
On May 6, 1998, Cubs rookie Kerry Wood delivered what many consider the most dominant pitching performance in MLB history. Facing the Houston Astros, Wood struck out 20 batters, allowed just one infield hit, and walked none in a 2-0 victory. His game score of 105 remains the highest ever recorded in a nine-inning game.
Ernie Banks Hits Historic 500th Home Run
On May 12, 1970, “Mr. Cub” Ernie Banks became just the ninth player in MLB history to reach 500 home runs. His milestone blast came off Pat Jarvis of the Atlanta Braves in the second inning, helping the Cubs secure a 4-3 victory. Banks would finish his Hall of Fame career with 512 home runs, cementing his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest sluggers.
Babe Ruth’s Legendary “Called Shot”
The 1932 World Series witnessed one of baseball’s most legendary moments when Babe Ruth allegedly pointed to center field before hitting a home run off Charlie Root. While debate continues about whether Ruth actually called his shot, this Game 3 moment has become an iconic part of baseball folklore and Wrigley Field history.
Pete Rose Ties Ty Cobb’s Hit Record
History was made on September 8, 1985, when Pete Rose lined a single to left field for hit number 4,191, tying Ty Cobb’s all-time record. The game paused as fans gave Rose a standing ovation, recognizing the magnitude of matching a record that had stood for over 50 years.
Gabby Hartnett’s “Homer in the Gloamin'”
In near-darkness on September 28, 1938, Cubs catcher Gabby Hartnett hit one of baseball’s most famous home runs. His ninth-inning blast, dubbed the “Homer in the Gloamin'” because it came as dusk was settling in, gave the Cubs a crucial victory over the Pirates and helped propel them to the National League pennant.
Sammy Sosa’s Triple Crown of 60-Homer Seasons
Sammy Sosa made history by becoming the first player to hit 60 home runs in three different seasons (1998, 1999, 2001), achieving each milestone at Wrigley Field. His most memorable came during the great home run chase of 1998, when he and Mark McGwire captivated the nation with their pursuit of Roger Maris’s record.
Stan Musial’s Five-Homer Doubleheader
On May 2, 1954, “Stan the Man” Musial put on an unprecedented display of power, hitting five home runs in a doubleheader against the Cubs. Going 6-for-8 with nine RBIs, Musial set a Wrigley Field record for most home runs in a single day that still stands today.
First Night Game at Wrigley Field
August 8, 1988, marked the end of an era as Wrigley Field attempted its first night game. Though rain forced the cancellation of this historic game in the fourth inning, it signaled the beginning of a new chapter for the last major league park to install lights. The first official night game would be played the following evening.
Greg Maddux’s 3,000th Strikeout
On July 26, 2004, Chicago native Greg Maddux achieved baseball immortality by recording his 3,000th strikeout at Wrigley Field. Becoming just the 13th pitcher to reach this milestone, Maddux fanned San Francisco’s Omar Vizquel during his second stint with the Cubs, receiving a lengthy standing ovation from the appreciative crowd.
Ken Hubbs Memorial Game Honors Cubs Legend
In 1964, Wrigley Field hosted an emotional memorial game following the tragic death of promising young Cubs second baseman Ken Hubbs in a plane crash. The Cubs honored their fallen star by temporarily retiring his number 16, a rare gesture at the time. Hubbs, who had won both Rookie of the Year and a Gold Glove in 1962, was remembered as one of the most promising young talents in Cubs history.