Walking Off the Field With Love: Anthony Rizzo’s Wrigley Goodbye

By: Sreeja Nallamala

Some moments feel bigger than the game, and this weekend at Wrigley Field was one of those moments for Anthony Rizzo. Nearly a decade after helping the Cubs win their first World Series in 108 years, Rizzo returned to officially retire in front of fans who have loved him for years.

Anthony Rizzo at his retirement ceremony at Wrigley Field. ABC7 Chicago

Before the game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Rizzo walked the outfield with his wife Emily and their family, soaking in cheers from fans. A tribute video played, and he threw the first pitch to former teammate Ian Happ, who even played Rizzo’s old walk-up song. It was a perfect full-circle moment.

Rizzo, 36, said injuries in recent seasons made the decision easier. “The last couple years I was banged up a little bit,” he said. “I told my parents, I told my wife, ‘Hey, enjoy this ride.’” He smiled as he spoke, clearly at peace with stepping away from the game he loves.

He leaves behind more than stats. Rizzo hit 242 home runs as a Cub, earned four Gold Gloves, and brought laughter and leadership to every clubhouse. He beat cancer as a teenager and created the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation to help kids and families facing the same fight, earning the Roberto Clemente Award in 2017.

Even on his retirement day, he joked about missing the clubhouse towels, but admitted that what he will miss most is the camaraderie and the daily grind with teammates. Instead of a suite, he sat in the bleachers during the game, almost catching a home run ball and enjoying the energy of the fans who still cheered for him like it was 2016.

Anthony Rizzo in the stands with fans at his retirement ceremony. Bleed Cubbie Blue

Now Rizzo begins the next chapter. More time with Emily, their dogs, and a slower pace of life await, though his connection to Cubs fans will never fade. Baseball may no longer have him on the field, but Anthony Rizzo will always hold a special place in the hearts of Chicago and fans everywhere.

Edited by: Megan Livengood