Chicago Cubs Unveil 2016 World Series Banner Before Home Opener After Rain Delay

In a celebration over 100 years in the making, the Chicago Cubs raised their 2016 World Series banner Monday night prior to their Opening Day matchup with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Inclement weather pushed the banner-raising ceremony back by roughly two hours. WGN's Dan Roan provided a look at the field and noted how the temperature inside Wrigley Field dropped precipitously:

The Wrigley Field scoreboard operators had to show fans something to help pass the time. According to ESPN's Sarah Spain, those inside the stadium were treated to former Cubs catcher David Ross' routine on Dancing with the Stars:

Prior to commemorating the franchise's 2016 World Series win, the team raised banners for each of its two World Series triumphs in 1907 and 1908 as well as a banner for its National League pennant in 2016. Cubs legends Ryne Sandberg, Ferguson Jenkins and Billy Williams were on hand to do the honors. 

The team offered a look at the four flags:

When it came time to lift the 2016 World Series pennant to its final stop at Wrigley Field, Anthony Rizzo was the first Cubs player to pull the rope, with each of his teammates receiving an opportunity to do the same. The Athletic Chicago captured the moment:

The Cubs and MLB also showed Rizzo carrying the Commissioner's Trophy onto the field:

The celebratory mood on the north side of the Windy City will continue through Wednesday when the players officially receive their World Series rings.

After that, the team will turn its focus to its title defense. While the Cubs have arguably the best team in baseball, the New York Yankees in 2000 were the last franchise to repeat as MLB champions. And given the franchise's lengthy drought, Cubs fans know all too well how difficult it can be to come out on top in the Fall Classic.