Illinois stadium agency, Tribune exchange offers on Wrigley sale

The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority has exchanged proposals with the Tribune Co. over the possible purchase of Wrigley Field. But steep political and financial hurdles to a deal remain.

That's the word from former Governor James Thompson, who heads the stadium authority.

Thompson tells the Chicago Tribune in a story published Wednesday that the agency made a formal bid to buy Wrigley in late March. He says the company rejected the offer but countered.

Thompson says he expects to come back with another proposal.

But he notes the transaction remains a "tough sell" politically because of the high price tag for needed renovations at the historic ballpark.

Thompson didn't return phone calls Wednesday. Tribune executive Crane Kenney, who's in charge of the Cubs, declined to comment.