Context:

A rare June heat wave swept across parts of the United States, affecting major league sports events with dangerously high temperatures. In Chicago, the Mariners and Cubs played under a scorching 92-degree sun, prompting fans and teams to seek shade and take precautions. The PGA Tour and the LPGA also faced intense heat in Connecticut and Texas, respectively, with players and spectators struggling to cope with the conditions. Incidents of heat-related issues were noted, as Seattle reliever Trent Thornton and umpire Chad Whitson experienced discomfort during games. Despite the challenging weather, teams and fans displayed resilience, employing strategies to manage the heat, although concerns remained, especially for vulnerable individuals like catchers, umpires, and fans.

Dive Deeper:

• Chicago's Wrigley Field hosted the Mariners and Cubs in 92-degree heat, with the shade becoming a refuge for fans and team members alike. Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted concerns for catchers and pitchers who face prolonged exposure during games.

• The PGA Tour's Travelers Championship in Connecticut and the LPGA's KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in Texas also saw players competing under sweltering conditions, common for Texas but exacerbated by the current heat wave.

• Heat-related incidents included Seattle reliever Trent Thornton and umpire Chad Whitson, who both faced issues during Saturday's game but showed signs of recovery by Sunday.

• Reds manager Terry Francona reported that shortstop Elly De La Cruz was recovering after experiencing heat-related sickness during a game in St. Louis.

• The LPGA tournament in Frisco, Texas, provided cooling areas and free bottled water for fans to mitigate the effects of the mid-90s heat, which was typical for the region but compounded by windy conditions.

• Managers and players acknowledged the unusual intensity of the heat, with Mariners manager Dan Wilson noting that while they are accustomed to playing in hot weather, the current conditions are exceptional.

• Efforts to manage the heat included hydration and shade, but concerns persisted for those most vulnerable to the extreme temperatures, such as umpires, some players, and fans, who are less able to take breaks or find relief.