CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
The Crosstown Classic is an annual favorite that showcases the fervor behind Chicago's historic rivalry.
Despite the overwhelming police presence and rumors of protests prompted by the NATO summit, fans were not deterred from catching the Cubs-Sox game at Wrigley Field.
"It's hyped, but it's good because they are protecting us," Debby Strouse said.
"I am not worried about the protesters," Chris Swistek said. "The city has done a great job as far as security and police go - there's no danger whatsoever."
Friday afternoon's game was reportedly the lowest turnout for a Cubs Sox game on the North Side.
Some fans observed that there weren't as many people present for the match-up. But they didn't attribute that to the NATO summit – they said the loss of some big names like Ozzie Guillen and Lou Pinella had a big impact.
But FOX Chicago News has learned the stadium was filled with police in plain clothes, mixed in with fans who took notice of the enhanced security.
"I felt very safe," Kelli Paquette said. "Everyone's more aware of the situation, but other than that, I couldn't ask for a better experience."
Officers lined every corner in Wrigleyville, as hundreds of fans surrounded the stadium two days prior to the NATO summit.
Some VIPs and visiting dignitaries may be taking in a Cubs-Sox game over NATO weekend.
They will step up police and security personnel presence for Saturday's game, because some NATO delegates and dignitaries may come to the park to enjoy some friendly competition for a fun day before the summit begins.
Everything was in place on a picture perfect day - just in case.
Moments after Game 1 of the Cubs Sox series, 60 members of Lane Tech High School's Junior Army ROTC filled Wrigley Field.
The students were rehearsing Saturday's opening ceremony saluting NATO and military veterans.
"All the summit leaders are going to be here for the game so it's a good opportunity to… recognize what's going on this weekend in Chicago," Ret. Lt. Col. Scott Kochheiser said.
At Game 2 of the Cubs Sox series, the top commander of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan General John Allen, will throw the first pitch and Staff Sergeant Albert Williams with the Air Force Band of America will perform the Star Spangled Banner.
The world will watch as the teens raise flags representing 50 participating NATO nations and partners in the International Security Assistance Force.
"These kids we have are really great at Lane, and just knowing that all those people are there that automatically focuses their attention and gets them excited about being here," Kochheiser said.
Friday night outside Wrigley Field, security remained intense and the overwhelming police presence lingered long after the game.
Officers moved swiftly, making arrests at any signs of disturbance.
"I am very impressed with the City of Chicago and with the FBI and with what federal agents have done here," Swistek said. "I'm very impressed and I think they're going to do a great job and I think NATO will be very successful."
