The applause erupted the moment Anthony Rizzo was announced in the starting lineup for the New York Yankees. That was just the beginning.
On Friday, Rizzo, in his first game back at Wrigley Field since his trade from the Chicago Cubs to New York in July 2021, received numerous standing ovations.
“I was smiling all day,” Rizzo said. “There were times when I was just standing on the field, soaking it all in. It’s been a while since I’ve been here, so it’s great to be back.”
Rizzo spent over nine seasons with the Cubs, becoming a fan favorite during a successful era for the team. He hit .272 with 242 home runs and 784 RBIs across 1,308 games, was a three-time NL All-Star, and won four Gold Gloves.
Alongside Kris Bryant and Javier Báez, and with Jon Lester and Kyle Hendricks performing well on the mound, Rizzo helped the Cubs win the 2016 World Series, ending a 108-year championship drought.
“This is a special place to play,” Rizzo said. “Anyone who has played here would agree.”
The Cubs honored Rizzo with a pregame video showcasing his on-field achievements and his philanthropic efforts with pediatric cancer patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital. The crowd’s cheers grew louder as the video played and concluded.
Rizzo stepped out of the visitors’ dugout, acknowledging the enthusiastic ovation by tipping his hat. He embraced his wife, Emily, posed for photos, and then headed to the outfield to wave at the fans in the bleachers.
