UPDATE: In a heartfelt ceremony on August 26, 2023, at Wrigley Field, former Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo officially announced his retirement from professional baseball, marking the end of an era for the beloved player. Rizzo, now 36, also accepted the role of ambassador for the team he helped lead to its first World Series title in 108 years.
This emotional moment comes as Rizzo transitions from player to ambassador, following a season with the New York Yankees where injuries forced him to hang up his cleats. “The last couple years I was banged up a little bit, but last year after breaking my arm, I told my parents, I told my wife, ‘hey, enjoy this ride,’” Rizzo shared during a press conference before the game.
Before the Cubs faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays, Rizzo walked the outfield with his family, soaking in the cheers from Cubs fans who have supported him throughout his career. The team honored him with a special video montage highlighting his decade-long journey in Chicago, where he hit an impressive 242 home runs.
As he threw out the first pitch to former teammate Ian Happ, the crowd erupted in applause, with Happ later acknowledging Rizzo by playing his iconic walk-up music. “When we won, that global impact we had on a fan base of generations of Cubs fans is still lasting,” Rizzo said, reflecting on the emotional connection he shares with the Cubs community.
Rizzo’s journey with the Cubs began in 2012, and he quickly became a central figure in the team’s resurgence. Current Cubs manager Craig Counsell noted, “I always thought Rizzo and (Javy) Baez were kind of the heart of this thing and kind of the engine of those Cubs teams,” highlighting Rizzo’s influence on and off the field.
Off the diamond, Rizzo is also known for his philanthropic efforts. After overcoming cancer in 2008, he founded the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, which earned him the prestigious Roberto Clemente award in 2017 for his outstanding contributions to the community. “To have a lasting legacy here in Chicago, and all over the country, is just something bigger than the game,” Rizzo expressed.
Despite stepping away from the game, Rizzo shared his fondest memories and what he misses most about being a player. “As far as the game, I miss the guys,” he admitted. “I miss the struggle with the guys because the ups and downs are great. But I miss the camaraderie.”
During the game, Rizzo took a seat in the left field bleachers, nearly catching a home run ball from rookie Moises Ballesteros. He wanted to connect with the fans who have supported him throughout his illustrious career, stating, “The energy that the fans give you is amazing.”
Looking ahead, Rizzo’s new role as ambassador will allow him to maintain a strong connection with the Cubs organization and its loyal fanbase. As the Cubs continue their season, fans can look forward to seeing Rizzo engage with the team in this exciting new chapter.
This significant announcement not only marks a farewell to one of the Cubs’ greatest players but also sets the stage for an enduring legacy within the organization. Cubs fans worldwide are eager to see how Rizzo will continue to make an impact both on and off the field.
