Anthony Rizzo retires - and Cubs instantly bring back World Series champ

For Chicago Cubs fans, the happiest moment of their fandom came in 2016 when the Cubs snapped their 108-year winless drought in the World Series. At the center of that team was first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who essentially served as the captain of the team. Even as Rizzo continued his career with the New York Yankees, Cubs fans couldn't help but save a special place in their heart for the World Series champion.

After an outstanding 14 seasons in the major leagues, Rizzo has decided to hang up the cleats and call it a career.

ESPN's Jesse Rogers reported Wednesday that Rizzo would be retiring, but he would rightfully be doing it as a Cub. Not only is Rizzo retiring as a Cub, but he will join the organization in an ambassador role.

Rizzo was traded to the Cubs before the 2012 season and was with Chicago until he was dealt to the Yankees during the 2021 season.

Rizzo's career with the Cubs is up there with some of the best. A career slash line of .272/.372/.489 to go along with 242 home runs and a .861 OPS. Rizzo won four Gold Glove awards, was selected to three All-Star Games, and had two top-four finishes in MVP voting during his time in Chicago.

He was a beloved member of the organization from the start of his time on the North Side, which was why it was so hard for many to process the trade when Rizzo was moved in 2021. #44 never should've worn another jersey, and it was unfortunate to see the way his Yankees career played out over the final two seasons.

In the 2015-2018 days, it was easy for most to consider the young players, such as Kris Bryant and Javier Baez, the faces of the franchise. To some, though, those teams belonged to Rizzo, and he was considered the face of the team as well as the captain.

It was an outstanding MLB career for No. 44, and it is great that he will be back with the organization after too many years gone from it.

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