Anthony Rizzo’s return to Wrigley Field was met with a heartfelt reception from Cubs fans, honoring the first baseman who helped deliver the franchise’s first World Series title in 108 years back in 2016. The day was filled with emotional tributes and warm memories for the first baseman, making his first trip back to Chicago since being traded to the Yankees in 2021.
The Cubs organization paid tribute to Anthony Rizzo, who vows to stay with the Yankees, with a pre-game video, drawing a thunderous ovation from the crowd of 40,101 fans. He, visibly emotional, stepped onto the field to acknowledge the cheers, his eyes brimming with tears as he soaked in the moment.
Reflecting on the day, Anthony Rizzo expressed deep gratitude for the experience, calling it something he would cherish forever. He noted that while his entire career with the Cubs was special, sharing this moment with his wife Emily and his family on the field made it particularly meaningful.
“Just grateful, amazing,” the Yankees first baseman said. “It was a great moment and something I’ll remember forever and cherish forever. Obviously all the time here was special, but to be able to come back and share that moment and have Emily, my wife, and my family on the field was something I’ll never forget.”
The ovations continued as Anthony Rizzo stepped up for his first at-bat in the second inning. The Cubs played his old walk-up song, “Intoxicated,” reigniting the nostalgia and prompting another wave of applause from the crowd.
Anthony Rizzo rekindles personal touch in Chicago
As Anthony Rizzo traveled to the ballpark, he glanced out the bus window at the choppy waters of Lake Michigan, interpreting it as a sign of gusty winds ahead—a classic Wrigley Field element. Upon arrival, he was greeted warmly by former Cubs clubhouse staff and personnel, underscoring the deep ties he maintains with the organization.
Before the game, the field was filled with fans wearing yellow T-shirts, a tribute to Anthony Rizzo’s charitable work with pediatric cancer patients during his Cubs tenure. As a cancer survivor himself, this gesture carried extra significance, highlighting Anthony Rizzo’s impact on the community that extends far beyond his contributions to the diamond.
On the Yankees’ day off, Anthony Rizzo and his wife visited Lurie Children’s Hospital, a stop that highlighted his ongoing charitable efforts in the community. The visit was prominently featured in the tribute video played at Wrigley Field, emphasizing Rizzo’s continued impact beyond the baseball diamond.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone described the day as both impressive and deeply emotional, noting Anthony Rizzo’s visible reaction to the tribute. Boone praised the fans for their enthusiastic welcome and commended his strong showing on the field.
Ahead of the series, Anthony Rizzo had expressed his desire to finish his career with the Yankees. In Friday’s game, he went 1-for-3 at the plate, drew a walk, and made several sharp defensive plays at first base. The first baseman spoke about savoring the weekend but emphasized the importance of winning as the Yankees aim to gain momentum heading into September.
“I want to soak it up all weekend,” he said. “I just hope we win. That’s the biggest thing — September baseball, we’re trying to get on track and get hot. We’re in a good position.”
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