South Bend Cubs: One on one with owner Andrew Berlin

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - Team owner Andrew Berlin is the man responsible for bringing the Cubs franchise to South Bend. He spoke with ABC57 about the new team, the new affiliation and the future of the South Bend Cubs.

“Usually, the off season is quiet. People aren't talking about baseball in the winter months. But the media, friends, fans and the team- it's been all baseball-- all year Long and it has been fantastic,” said Berlin.

There's a lot of buzz surrounding the South Bend Cubs. It's a new team and a new brand.

No one will be cheering louder than Berlin.

 “Obviously, I love baseball and I love watching great baseball. I love seeing my team win, but off the grass, what I love is watching kids have a great time,” said Berlin.

Berlin's love of baseball intensified last year as he became a minority investor in the Chicago Cubs.

 “It's a great feeling- great feeling. I became a limited partner/investor in Chicago Cubs a couple months ago- so seeing what this organization is about from the inside out, meeting Ricketts and seeing their vision of Wrigley Field,” said Berlin.

And now that vision is playing out in South Bend.

“The story here is yes, Cubs are in town. There's a strong emotional attachment to the brand,” said Berlin.

A brand that comes with a new vision with a renewed focus on fans.

 “Every touch point, every time we get a chance to touch a fan, it has to be surprising and delightful. And that equals thrill and if we deliver thrill, we will have a great season,” said Berlin.

While his eyes will be on the field Opening Day, he's always looking at the big picture.

He's optimistic that the Cubs brand will lead to economic development in South Bend and the surrounding communities.

 “It has to start with one business that says we believe in this area and here we are going to invest and invest big. And that what I did and that's what the Cubs did,” said Berlin.

As for future growth, Berlin says if this season goes well and they come close to selling out, they will consider adding on a second level to accommodate more vendors, seats, and suites.