Woody's Winter Warm-Up a success for 2nd consecutive year

Former Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood and his wife Sarah hosted the second Woody's Warm-Up event on Friday, January 18th 2013, which was also the opening night of the 2013 Cubs Convention. 

Cubs players, Bears players and local celebrities got behind the bar and served drinks to guests while competing for tips.  There was also a live and silent auction.  More than $96,000 was raised at Harry Caray's Tavern at Navy Pier that night to benefit the Wood Family Foundation.

I had the pleasure of attending the fundraiser for the second year and it was a night to remember.  It was so special to see everyone come together to support such an amazing foundation.  Even though Kerry Wood retired last spring, many members of the current Cubs roster still came out to support the former Cub.  Some of the Cubs' top prospects also helped out behind the bar and mingled with guests.

Trey McNutt, Darwin Barney and Marcus Hatley (photo by Karen Burchell)

Cubs manager Dale Sveum, along with President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein, Senior Vice President of Scouting and Player Development Jason McLeod, Director of Pro Scouting Joe Bohringer, as well as Tom, Todd and Pete Ricketts were also in attendance.

Some of the players in attendance that I had a chance to talk to included Anthony Rizzo, Darwin Barney, Tony Campana, Matt Garza, Jeff Samardzija, Steve Clevenger, Ian Stewart, Dave Sappelt, James Russell, Brooks Raley, Travis Wood, David DeJesus, former Cubs Jody Davis, Kerry Wood and Scott Sanderson.  In addition, prospects Dallas Beeler, Marcus Hatley, Zac Rosscup and other Cubs minor leaguers were there to support the Wood Family Foundation.

Hanging out with the host of the evening, Kerry Wood (photo by Karen Burchell)

This is one of my favorite Cubs fundraisers because of the more relaxed and casual atmosphere.  It's also a great opportunity to meet and talk to your favorite Cubs players and staff.  Everyone is friendly and accessible, minus the chaos of the convention.  I hope that Kerry and Sarah will continue to host this event, which is also a perfect kickoff to Cubs Convention weekend.