Anthony Rizzo is set to return to Wrigley Field with the New York Yankees, marking three years since his trade from the Chicago Cubs. Despite this return, Rizzo feels no need for closure, believing that his bond with Chicago will always remain.
Rizzo, a key player in the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory, expressed his deep connection to the city and its fans. “That door will always be open in Chicago,” Rizzo said, emphasizing his respect and love for the Cubs and their supporters.
Though now firmly part of the Yankees, having signed a $40 million, two-year contract with a team option for 2025, Rizzo still looks back fondly on his time with the Cubs, particularly the championship year. “As much as we love Chicago, I think where we ended up was perfect for us,” he said.
The 2016 World Series win remains a defining moment in Rizzo’s career. He recalls the outpouring of emotion from fans, especially stories of people visiting gravesites of loved ones to celebrate the victory. “It was really special after we won… seeing how happy those fans were,” Rizzo shared.
Although many of his former Cubs teammates have moved on, Rizzo maintains close ties with them. This weekend’s visit to Wrigley Field will be nostalgic for Rizzo, focusing as much on the historic ballpark as the game itself.
He fondly remembers playing at Wrigley and the energy brought by the fans, comparing it to other iconic stadiums like Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, and Dodger Stadium.
While his favorite visiting ballpark is Fenway, Rizzo looks forward to experiencing Wrigley Field as an opponent. His 2016 season with the Cubs was stellar, boasting a .292 average, 32 home runs, and 109 RBIs, earning him All-Star honors, a Gold Glove, and a Silver Slugger award.
Rizzo’s time with the Yankees has been challenging, impacted by injuries, including a concussion and a forearm fracture. Nonetheless, he expects a warm reception from Cubs fans, and Yankees manager Aaron Boone echoed this sentiment, noting Rizzo’s place in Cubs history.
Rizzo views his trade to the Yankees as a career refresher, appreciating the opportunity to play at Yankee Stadium. “The lights shine a little brighter every day. It brings the best out of you,” Rizzo remarked.
