The Cubs’ ground crew rolled the tarp onto the infield at 5:45 p.m. and Wrigley Field’s PA announcer informed early arrivals that Monday night’s game against the Cincinnati Reds was not expected to start on time due to rain and thunderstorms expected to arrive shortly.
On Monday morning, the team had already moved up the 6:40 scheduled start to 6:10 in hopes of avoiding the storms forecast to hit the area.
The Cubs have won five straight overall, and 11 in a row at Wrigley Field, after sweeping Arizona three straight over the weekend. They took over sole possession of first place in the National League Central on Saturday, and have now opened a two-game lead over the Reds and St. Louis Cardinals.
The Reds had begun the weekend in first place, the first time since 2006 they had entered May in first place, but were swept three straight by the Pirates in Pittsburgh prior to their arrival here.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning, though it appeared on radar that the most severe activity will occur south of the ballpark.
