Anthony Rizzo, the beloved former first baseman of the Chicago Cubs, has made his long-awaited return to Wrigley Field. This marks his first visit back to the iconic stadium since being traded to the New York Yankees in 2021. Rizzo, who spent nine full seasons with the Cubs and was instrumental in their historic 2016 World Series victory, received a warm and emotional welcome from the Chicago fans.

Rizzo’s tenure with the Cubs is filled with memorable moments, including his 32 home runs and 109 RBIs in the 2016 season, which culminated in the team’s first World Series title since 1908. His contributions on and off the field have made him a fan favorite, and his return to Wrigley Field is anticipated to be an emotional reunion.

Despite now playing for the Yankees, Rizzo has expressed his deep affection for the Cubs and their fans. “The amount of respect I have for the fan base there and the love I have for them and the Cubs will never be matched,” he said, highlighting the special bond he shares with the city and its fans. Rizzo’s current focus is on his future with the Yankees, where he hopes to retire, but his return to Wrigley Field is a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy in Chicago.

The series between the Yankees and Cubs at Wrigley Field is set to be a significant moment for Rizzo and the fans who have eagerly awaited his return. Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted, “He’ll be forever etched in their history and forever beloved in that town. I’m sure it’s exciting for him to go back,” underscoring the importance of this homecoming for Rizzo. As Rizzo steps back onto the familiar grounds of Wrigley Field, it is clear that his connection to the Cubs and their fans remains strong and enduring.

Between Rizzo and Ryno Sandberg. These guys were my jam.