Caray statue moved to bleacher entrance

Dutchie Caray admitted to being a little upset at first, but she was all smiles Wednesday at the rededication of the Harry Caray statue.

The Cubs moved the statue of the iconic broadcaster from its spot at Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue to just outside the main bleacher entrance at Sheffield and Waveland Avenues.

Next week, the Cubs will dedicate a statue for Hall of Fame outfielder Billy Williams where the Caray statue stood.

Dutchie Caray, Harry's widow, was one of the featured speakers during the rededication. She also threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Although Harry's grandson, Atlanta Braves broadcaster Chip Caray, told the Daily Herald the location of the statue was "irrelevant," Dutchie at first was reluctant to see it moved.

"I was a little sad at first," she said. "But I'm happy with the outcome. You can't buck city hall all the time. I'm happy that I came to the conclusion that they really are honoring Harry, and that's very, very nice of them to do what they did. They could have taken the statue down and left it somewhere. I think it's beautiful."

Harry Caray died in February 1998 after broadcasting Cubs games from 1982-97.

Cubs owner Tom Ricketts opened Wednesday's celebration.

"As a real fan, he was always comfortable in the bleachers," Ricketts said. "He liked the atmosphere in the bleachers."

Dutchie Caray agreed.

"He had to be where the action is," she said.