**Cubs Legend Anthony Rizzo Celebrates Retirement at Wrigley Field**
**Meta Description:** Anthony Rizzo, former Cubs star, embraces retirement during a game at Wrigley Field, showcasing his legacy and love for the team.
**URL Slug:** anthony-rizzo-cubs-retirement-wrigley-field
**Headline:** Anthony Rizzo Returns to Wrigley Field to Celebrate His Retirement
In a heartfelt return to Wrigley Field, Chicago Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo, 36, demonstrated why he recently announced his retirement during the team’s narrow 5-4 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday. Rizzo, who joined the Cubs as a team ambassador, kicked off the day by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch to his former teammate Ian Happ. Following the pitch, he made his way to the left-field bleachers to enjoy the game and engage with the fans.
During the game, Cubs designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros hit his first career home run, sending the ball directly toward Rizzo. In a lighthearted moment, Rizzo attempted to catch the ball but ended up dropping it, leading him to humorously remark on camera, “That’s why I’m retired.”
A veteran of 14 major league seasons, Rizzo had an impressive career with the Cubs, boasting a .272 batting average, 242 home runs, and 784 RBIs over ten seasons. He played a pivotal role in the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory, marking the franchise’s first championship since 1908. Rizzo was traded to the New York Yankees during the 2021 trade deadline as part of a team restructuring.
This summer, while visiting Chicago for the Lollapalooza music festival, Rizzo and his family were invited to dinner by Cubs owner Tom Ricketts, where they discussed Rizzo’s new ambassador role with the team. Reflecting on his journey, Rizzo shared, “Getting traded was just such a whirlwind, heartbreaking, so many emotions, and getting to play for the Yankees was so special for me. I grew up a Yankees fan. To be invited back here where I really created my legacy is very special to me and very humbling.”
As he embraced his new role, Rizzo expressed his plans to enjoy a hot dog, sip on adult beverages, and perhaps throw a baseball to Happ in left field, stating, “I have one day to really live it up.”
**Conclusion:** Anthony Rizzo’s return to Wrigley Field not only highlights his enduring legacy with the Cubs but also marks a new chapter in his life as he transitions into an ambassador role. His contributions to the team and the city will always be remembered by fans and players alike.
**FAQ:**
**Q: What was Anthony Rizzo’s role during the Cubs game at Wrigley Field?**
A: Anthony Rizzo served as a team ambassador, threw the ceremonial first pitch, and engaged with fans in the bleachers during the game.
