CHICAGO — Barry Antoniazzi, a paramedic for the Chicago Fire Department, is a devoted fan of the city’s baseball team. Seventy times a year, he wears his black No. 27 jersey with “Bagodonuts” on the back and his firefighter helmet adorned with Chicago White Sox pins as he heads to Guaranteed Rate Field, just a block and a half away from his home on W. 35th Street and S. Parnell Avenue.
Despite a tough season for the White Sox, Antoniazzi’s loyalty remains steadfast. His home is within earshot of the ballpark, where in normal times, he would enjoy hearing the postgame fireworks. However, this year has been far from normal. The team struggles to secure a home victory, and they are on pace to potentially challenge the record for most losses in a season.
Antoniazzi has even traveled to San Francisco to fulfill his goal of watching the White Sox play in all 30 Major League Baseball ballparks. He believes in the team’s potential for improvement and hopes to witness their rise to success.
While attendance at Guaranteed Rate Field has been modest, there are still diehard fans like Antoniazzi who continue to show up. Some fans attend games for the sheer entertainment value, while others are loyal supporters who have followed the team through thick and thin.
Despite the team’s struggles, some fans find joy in the unique experiences provided by attending baseball games in different cities. The camaraderie among fans and the shared love for the sport keep them coming back, even during a challenging season.
As the White Sox continue their journey through a difficult season, fans like Antoniazzi remain hopeful for better days ahead. Their unwavering dedication to the team serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of baseball fandom.