The Goldilocks Cut: Not Too Short, Not Too Long

How many times was the grass cut at Wrigley Field during the 2023 regular season?

A: 118
B: 124
C: 135
D: 162

Precision is key when it comes to mowing the grass at Wrigley Field. The groundskeepers aim for the Goldilocks cut — not too short, not too long. Maintaining a consistent grass height is not just an aesthetic choice; it also ensures a uniform playing surface, contributing to the quality of the game. The ideal height for Wrigley’s playing surface is around one inch, a carefully calculated balance that enhances both performance and aesthetics.

Stripes and Patterns: The Groundskeepers’ Signature

Next time you watch a game at Wrigley, pay attention to the mesmerizing patterns on the field. The grounds crew takes pride in creating distinctive mowing patterns, from classic stripes to intricate designs. By mowing in different directions, the leaves reflect light, resulting in the appearance of dark and light stripes. The grounds crew rotates patterns on each homestand to reduce driving over the same lines over and over, which could lead to compaction, which would affect the field’s performance.

Answer: A, 118 times in the 2023 regular season.