Anthony Rizzo’s Return to Wrigley Field: A Homecoming for the Former Cubs Star
Anthony Rizzo, the New York Yankees first baseman, may not be having the most stellar season in the Bronx, but a trip to Wrigley Field brings a much-needed spark to his year.1
The former Chicago Cubs All-Star will return to his old stomping grounds for the first time since joining the Yankees in 2021, marking an emotional and significant reunion for both Rizzo and Cubs fans.
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Rizzo’s Struggles in the Bronx
Rizzo’s tenure with the New York Yankees has been met with mixed results. After being traded from the Cubs to the Yankees in 2021, many expected Rizzo to provide the Bronx Bombers with the same level of production and leadership he showcased during his years in Chicago.
However, the 2023–24 season has not been kind to Rizzo, with his performance on the field taking a notable dip. Battling a mix of injuries and inconsistent form, Rizzo has struggled to replicate the success he enjoyed with the Cubs, leaving both fans and analysts questioning what went wrong.
Emotional Return to Wrigley Field
For Rizzo, Wrigley Field is more than just a ballpark; it’s home. The first baseman played a pivotal role in leading the Cubs to their historic 2016 World Series championship, the franchise’s first in 108 years.
During his time in Chicago, Rizzo became a beloved figure, known not only for his on-field heroics but also for his leadership and commitment to the city. He was the heart and soul of the Cubs, serving as a captain and a fan favorite throughout his tenure.
Reflections on a Legendary Cubs Career
Rizzo’s time with the Cubs is the stuff of legend. He was a central figure in one of the greatest moments in baseball history when the Cubs broke the infamous “Curse of the Billy Goat” and won the 2016 World Series.
Rizzo’s leadership both on and off the field was instrumental in transforming the Cubs from perennial underachievers into championship contenders. Over nine seasons with the Cubs, Rizzo hit 242 home runs and accumulated 784 RBIs, becoming one of the most consistent and productive players in franchise history.
Challenges Facing the Yankees
As the Yankees prepare for their series against the Cubs, they find themselves at a crossroads. The 2024 season has been challenging for the team, with injuries to key players and underwhelming performances across the board.2
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Rizzo, in particular, has faced scrutiny for his struggles at the plate. Despite a promising start to the season, his production has slowed, with his batting average dipping and his power numbers failing to meet expectations.
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Anthony Rizzo Reminisces About His World Series Triumph with the Cubs
The 2016 Major League Baseball (MLB) season culminated in one of the most memorable and historic World Series wins of all time. The Chicago Cubs, a team steeped in tradition but haunted by a century-long championship drought, broke the so-called “Curse of the Billy Goat” by defeating the Cleveland Guardians (then known as the Indians) in a thrilling Game 7.
The Road to the World Series
For decades, the Chicago Cubs were a team synonymous with heartbreak and missed opportunities. Their fans, some of the most loyal in all of sports, had to endure a century-long drought without a World Series championship.3
The team had come close at times, but various instances of bad luck and misfortune kept them from reaching the pinnacle of baseball success.
Game 7: A Battle for the Ages
The 2016 World Series will forever be remembered for its thrilling conclusion. After six hard-fought games, the Cubs and Guardians were tied 3-3, setting the stage for a dramatic Game 7. The pressure was immense, not just because it was the final game of the series, but because of the weight of history.
The Cubs had not won a World Series since 1908, and a loss would have been yet another chapter in the franchise’s long history of near-misses.
The Impact on Chicago
For Rizzo, the World Series triumph was about more than just winning a championship. It was about bringing joy to a city that had waited 108 years for this moment. Chicago is a city with a rich sports history, but no team had captured the hearts of its fans quite like the Cubs.
Generations of fans had lived and died without seeing their beloved team win a title, and the victory in 2016 was a cathartic experience for the entire city.
Anthony Rizzo: A Legacy of Leadership, Resilience, and Triumph in Major League Baseball
Anthony Vincent Rizzo, born on August 8, 1989, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has established himself as one of the most prominent and respected figures in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Known for his skill as a first baseman, his leadership both on and off the field, and his resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges, Rizzo’s career is a testament to hard work and determination.
Yankees’ Anthony Rizzo doesn’t seek closure in Chicago return https://t.co/cQrKCkQIZU pic.twitter.com/oKnDHGCNxV
— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) September 6, 2024
Early Life and Rise to Professional Baseball
Anthony Rizzo’s journey to MLB began in South Florida, where he was raised in a tight-knit, sports-oriented family. From an early age, Rizzo showed an interest in baseball, quickly emerging as a standout player in local youth leagues.
His love for the game grew, and by the time he was a student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Rizzo had developed into a highly-touted baseball prospect. His talent and work ethic made him one of the most promising high school players in the country, attracting the attention of major league scouts.
Breaking Into the Majors: The San Diego Padres and the Trade to Chicago
After his recovery, Rizzo continued to rise through the Red Sox’s minor league system, but in December 2010, he was traded to the San Diego Padres as part of a deal that sent star first baseman Adrián González to Boston.
The move was a turning point for Rizzo, as it provided him with an opportunity to debut in the majors.
Finding a Home with the Chicago Cubs
The trade to Chicago was a blessing in disguise for Rizzo, as it allowed him to establish himself as one of the premier players in MLB. From the moment he joined the Cubs, it was clear that Rizzo was destined to become a cornerstone of the franchise.
In his first full season with the team in 2013, Rizzo hit 23 home runs and became a fan favorite for his gritty play and leadership in the clubhouse. The Cubs recognized Rizzo’s importance to the team’s future, and in 2013, they signed him to a seven-year contract extension, solidifying his role as the face of the franchise.
Anthony Rizzo’s Professional Career: From Draft to MLB Stardom
Anthony Rizzo’s path to becoming one of the most celebrated first basemen in Major League Baseball (MLB) began when he was selected in the sixth round of the 2007 MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox. Coming out of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Rizzo was already seen as a top talent.
He was initially committed to attending Florida Atlantic University but decided to pursue his professional baseball dreams after being drafted, signing with the Red Sox for a $325,000 signing bonus. This marked the start of a career filled with perseverance, challenges, and success.
Early Professional Career and Battle with Cancer
Rizzo began his professional career in the Red Sox’s minor league system, where he quickly rose through the ranks. His impressive performance in the lower levels of the minors solidified his status as one of Boston’s top prospects.
However, in 2008, at just 18 years old, Rizzo was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The diagnosis was a major blow, but Rizzo faced the battle head-on, undergoing chemotherapy while continuing to work on his game.
The Trade to the San Diego Padres
In December 2010, the Red Sox traded Rizzo to the San Diego Padres as part of a deal for All-Star first baseman Adrián González. The trade presented Rizzo with an opportunity to break into the big leagues, as he was expected to be the Padres’ first baseman of the future.
Finding His Place with the Chicago Cubs
In January 2012, Rizzo’s career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs in a deal that reunited him with Jed Hoyer, the general manager who had previously worked with him in both Boston and San Diego.
The Cubs, under Hoyer and President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein, were in the midst of a rebuilding phase, and Rizzo was seen as a key piece of their future.
Anthony Rizzo’s Net Worth: A Reflection of His Baseball Success and Endorsements
As of 2023, Anthony Rizzo’s net worth is estimated to be around $27 million. This figure reflects not only his successful MLB career but also his various endorsement deals and charitable activities.
Rizzo’s earnings primarily come from his contracts as a professional baseball player, particularly his time with the Chicago Cubs and, more recently, the New York Yankees.
Earnings from MLB Contracts
Rizzo’s journey to financial success began with his initial signing bonus of $325,000 when he was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2007. However, his significant earnings started after he solidified himself as a star with the Chicago Cubs.
In 2013, the Cubs signed Rizzo to a seven-year, $41 million contract extension, which included club options for the 2020 and 2021 seasons. This deal guaranteed Rizzo financial stability and recognized his value as a cornerstone of the Cubs’ roster.
Endorsements and Business Ventures
In addition to his MLB salary, Rizzo has also secured various endorsement deals that have contributed to his wealth.
As a well-known and respected figure in the sports world, he has partnered with brands such as BodyArmor, an energy drink company, and Marucci Sports, a well-known baseball equipment manufacturer. These endorsements not only provide Rizzo with additional income but also enhance his public profile.
Charitable Contributions and the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation
While Rizzo has achieved considerable financial success, he is equally known for his charitable work. In 2012, Rizzo established the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides support to families dealing with cancer.
This cause is particularly close to Rizzo’s heart, as he is a cancer survivor himself. The foundation has raised millions of dollars to fund cancer research and support patients and their families, demonstrating Rizzo’s commitment to giving back to the community.
FAQ’S
1. Why is Anthony Rizzo’s return to Wrigley Field significant?
Ans: Anthony Rizzo’s return to Wrigley Field is significant because he was a beloved figure with the Chicago Cubs, where he played from 2012 to 2021. During his time with the Cubs, he was a key part of their 2016 World Series championship team and is remembered fondly by fans for his leadership and performance.
2. What has Anthony Rizzo said about his return to Wrigley Field?
Ans:Rizzo has expressed that his return to Wrigley Field is emotional and meaningful. He has described it as “a long time coming,” reflecting on the special memories and connections he made during his years with the Cubs.
3. When is Anthony Rizzo scheduled to return to Wrigley Field?
Ans: Anthony Rizzo is scheduled to return to Wrigley Field during the Cubs’ series against the New York Yankees, where he currently plays. The exact dates may vary based on the game schedule.
4. What impact did Anthony Rizzo have during his time with the Cubs?
Ans: During his tenure with the Cubs, Rizzo was a three-time All-Star and a Gold Glove winner. He was a central figure in the Cubs’ lineup and played a crucial role in ending the team’s 108-year World Series drought in 2016.
5. How have Cubs fans reacted to Rizzo’s return?
Ans: Cubs fans have been highly supportive and enthusiastic about Rizzo’s return. There is a strong sense of nostalgia and appreciation for his contributions to the team, and many fans are looking forward to celebrating his career and achievements during his visit.
Read More: Anthony Rizzo (MLB): Bio, Wiki, Family, Career, Height, Weight, Net Worth 2024 and Paid Partnership
