Former Chicago Cubsfirst baseman Anthony Rizzo has not played baseball since 2024, and during the 2025 season he announced his retirement from MLB. The Cubs honored him with a special retirement celebration at Wrigley Field in September before a matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Although Rizzo finished his playing career with the New York Yankees, he officially retired as a member of the Cubs. During the ceremony, he threw out the ceremonial first pitch and was recognized by the organization and fans for his contributions. The Cubs also revealed that Rizzo will remain with the franchise in a new role as a team ambassador.
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Over 14 seasons, he collected 1,644 hits, 303 home runs and 965 RBIs while posting a .261 batting average, .361 on-base percentage and .828 OPS.
Former Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony RizzoMark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Known for his fearless approach at the plate, Rizzo leaves behind a legacy as one of the defining players of his era in Chicago.
His peak came with the Cubs, where he spent a decade of his career and helped lead the team to its last World Series title in 2016. Rizzo collected three All-Star selections, four Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger as a member of the Cubs, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.
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However, Rizzo’s playing career may not be completely over. According to Bruce Levine of Marquee Sports Network, Team Italy’s manager for the World Baseball Classic, Ned Colletti, asked Rizzo to participate in the international tournament.
Rizzo has not yet decided if he will accept the invitation. He previously represented Team Italy in the 2013 WBC, helping them reach the second round, a significant achievement for Italian baseball.
A potential return in 2026 would give Rizzo the chance to showcase his skills on the international stage once more, while also honoring his heritage and continuing to inspire the next generation of Italian players.
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Rizzo’s path to stardom was far from straightforward. He made his MLB debut in 2011 with the San Diego Padres after originally being drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2007. Just a year later, he was traded to the Cubs in a deal that would ultimately define his career, as he became the centerpiece of their rebuild and eventual championship run.
In 2021, Rizzo was dealt to the Yankees, where he closed out his playing days, bringing his leadership and consistency to another storied franchise.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.