Chicago Cubs: Anthony Rizzo shows why he’s the face of the franchise

CHICAGO, IL - AUGUST 01: Anthony Rizzo #44 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates with teammates after hitting a home run in the seventh inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on August 1, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - AUGUST 01: Anthony Rizzo #44 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates with teammates after hitting a home run in the seventh inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on August 1, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

With a $3.5 million donation to Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo continues to touch the lives of everyone.

Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo is a legend already. He battled cancer as a prospect in the Boston Red Sox organization, winning the war. He earns annual All-Star selections, forms one-half of #TeamBryzzo and – most importantly – brought a World Series to the North Side.

At least, that’s what you might think is the biggest thing he’s done in his life. But if you ask him, that’s not even close.

“To be able to give back and do this type of work is so much bigger than winning a World Series,” Rizzo said with tears in his eyes.

The Cubs first baseman is in the midst of another impressive year. He’s headed for yet-another 30-homer, 100-RBI campaign and, hopefully, a third-straight postseason appearance. But, even amidst an engagement and chasing another title, Rizzo never fails to spend time at the hospital.

Lurie’s surprised the slugger with a wall and waiting room dedicated in his honor on Tuesday. And you can tell just how much the gesture meant to Rizzo.

“This means a lot to me,” said. “I remember sitting with my mom saying we were going to do this 10 years ago. And you know, this is just a little step in our mission.”

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Here’s to you, Tony. We love you. Thank you for everything you’ve done and continue to do.