The hottest commodity in Chicago was a ticket to Wrigley Field for the National League Division Series Games 3 and 4 of the MLB 2015 Postseason between the Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals. It was actually easier and cheaper to make the trip to St. Louis for Game 1 or 2. Fortunately, I was able to pull a few strings and score a press pass for Game 3.

With the best of five series tied at one, Game 3 was important, but the first thing I noticed when I arrived at Wrigley was there was no sense of desperation from the Cubs or the fans. Granted, this team has already exceeded expectations, but it goes deeper. This is a young, talented, likable team with a lot of depth. These Cubs are built for long-term success. They should be contenders for many years to come. They seem to get that, and so do the fans. That allows everyone to really enjoy the moment.

The success of the Cubs translates to many other successes, too. Sports apparel stores near Wrigley and all over Chicagoland are doing great business. Young Cubs stars Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant are among the top 10 best-selling baseball jerseys. Wrigleyville establishments like Murphy’s Bleachers have seen increased business. Everyone wants to watch these Cubs. Even hotels have attributed an upswing in business to the Cubs. The Cubs fan base is the most widespread and the most traveled. Fans are everywhere, and they go everywhere to watch the team.

I watched Game 4 at the Village Inn, my local spot, which was filled with Cubs fans. Business was booming even in the suburbs. The Cubs won Game 4 and will advance to the National League Championship Series. A World Series title would be awesome, but either way, this is just the beginning for the Cubs, the fans and all of Chicagoland.

— John Wroblewski, online contributor