Anthony Rizzo takes on ambassador role with Chicago Cubs after retirement

In a heartwarming return to his roots, Anthony Rizzo, a beloved figure in Major League Baseball, joined the Chicago Cubs as a team ambassador. This event took place during a Cubs game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Wrigley Field. Rizzo, who made significant contributions to the Cubs during his 10-year tenure with the team, threw the ceremonial first pitch to former teammate Ian Happ, marking a nostalgic moment for fans and players alike. During the game, Rizzo found himself in the left-field bleachers, enjoying the atmosphere when he attempted to catch a home run ball hit by Cubs player Moisés Ballesteros. Unfortunately for Rizzo, the ball slipped through his hands and fell into the crowd where another fan managed to retrieve it. Reflecting on his recent retirement from professional baseball, Rizzo humorously remarked, "That's why I'm retired" after the ball incident, showcasing his light-hearted spirit despite the mishap. Known for his impressive career, Rizzo boasted statistics of a .272 batting average, 242 home runs, and 784 RBIs. He played pivotal roles in the team, including contributing to their remarkable 2016 World Series victory, which marked the Cubs' first championship title since 1908. The move back to Chicago for Rizzo occurred during a family trip for the popular music festival Lollapalooza. During this visit, he was honored with a dinner invitation from Cubs owner Tom Ricketts, where they discussed Rizzo's new ambassador role. This position was particularly meaningful for Rizzo; not only did it signify a return to the franchise where he built his legacy, but it was also a chance to reconnect with the community that supported him throughout his career. In addition to celebrating his on-field accomplishments, Rizzo is a champion off the field. As a Hodgkin lymphoma survivor, he has made significant contributions through the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, which supports cancer research and patient families. His involvement with the foundation was symbolized during the Cubs game, where he wore a personalized jersey signed by young cancer patients he had previously visited. Reflecting on his journey, Rizzo noted that after overcoming a serious injury and subsequent retirement considerations, he could not be happier with where he stands now in life and his involvement with the Chicago Cubs, a franchise that played a crucial role in his professional journey.