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In an entertaining turn of events before the Chicago Street Cup, 23XI Racing was invited to attend a Chicago Cubs game. Given their team owner’s esteemed legacy in Chicago, the inaugural race at the Windy City held a pivotal position for the drivers of 23XI Racing. Denny Hamlin and fellow drivers, Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, joined in the pre-game festivities.

Michael Jordan, who had won six championships for the Chicago Bulls, is revered in the city. Building on their longstanding relationship with Chicago, Reddick and Wallace took additional steps to immerse themselves in the city’s neighborhoods and culture. But the renowned NASCAR drivers’ performance at pre-game festivities left Hamlin utterly stunned.

The pre-game festivities: 23XI Racing at a Chicago Cubs game

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Wallace took the prominent role of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. Reddick recognized the challenge of catching it, donning catcher’s apparel with an air of apprehension. Making the event more unique, Kurt, another racing team member, voluntarily officiated the game as the umpire.

“People looked at me when they were singing the 7th inning stretch. I mean, everyone’s. As soon as he finished, everyone just kind of awkwardly looked and it’s just like, they suck. I mean, they stunk. Denny chuckled on his podcast. 

When Wallace stepped up, eager yet apprehensive, he attempted to hurl the ball over the plate, albeit unsuccessfully on his first try. Hamlin and the others in attendance humorously ribbed Wallace. Suggesting that heroes get remembered, but the legends never die.

Reddick seemed to sense the pressure of the occasion but skillfully maintained his composure in the catcher’s role. Kurt, however, welcomed his moment in the sun, noisily promoting the baseball ceremony with a sense of familiarity and unbridled authority. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Fans Savagely Trash Denny Hamlin for Wrecking Himself at Sonoma

Denny Hamlin meekly calls himself the “barrier machine”

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Amidst the comical experience and contagious excitement, the 23XI Racing team found a unique opportunity to enter the domain of baseball, gaining access to a brand new fan base and exposing themselves to a broader market. The Jordan brand and McDonald’s cars on display outside the racetrack were a smash hit with spectators. This cemented the team’s commitment to establishing an eye-catching and memorable brand.

As the trio shifted their attention back to the track, Hamlin couldn’t help but marvel at his team’s remarkable accomplishments. When asked how his race was on the tracks, Hamplied replied, “Man, our 11 Yahoo was fast, I was sure for this weekend. We got our second Road course pole of 2023.

Hamlin inquired about a whimsical “2023 bingo card.” Not only had Hamlin begun to collect two of these exclusive poles throughout his career, but he was also adamant about continuing to perfect and hone his skills. 

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READ MORE: “Lame” Tyler Reddick Puts the Pressure on Teammate Bubba Wallace While Kurt Busch Confirms All Went Well

Although Hamlin was proud of his achievements, he was honest about his difficulty driving on wet tracks, comically referring to himself as a “barrier machine.” With a go-with-the-flow attitude and a natural flair, Hamlin endeared himself. He revealed another side of his personality off the racetrack. Overall, Denny Hamlin’s journey at the Cubs game was a riveting and memorable experience for drivers and fans alike.