Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo eyes potential comeback at 2026 World Baseball Classic

In September, Chicago Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 14 seasons. Cubs fans flocked to Wrigley Field on Sept. 13 to celebrate their former captain, as Rizzo returned to his iconic first base for the first time since the 2021 trade deadline.

Rizzo spent 10 years on the North Side, winning four Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger Award, including being named to the All-Star team three times for the National League. Rizzo played a pivotal role in the Cubs’ 2016 World Series championship, finishing fourth in MVP voting behind his teammate and eventual winner Kris Bryant. 

After four years with the New York Yankees, Rizzo officially retired as a Cub, returning to the organization as an ambassador and stepping away from baseball for good.

After a brief pause, Anthony Rizzo’s next baseball journey may be near

Saturday’s edition of “Inside the Cubs” on WSCR featured Ned Colletti, longtime baseball executive now serving as the general manager of Team Italy for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Colletti confirmed he reached out to Rizzo to invite him to be a part of the team, to which Rizzo is reportedly “still deciding.”

While Rizzo was born in America, his family has ties to Sicily, with his great-grandfather born in the town of Ciminna.

Rizzo previously played for Team Italy in 2013, with the Italians advancing to the second round after finishing second in their pool behind only the United States. Rizzo held a .409 OBP in five games, drawing five walks and driving in six on four hits.

If Rizzo is indeed returning to baseball for the tournament, Cubs fans will personally have the opportunity to see their beloved captain once more, albeit on the wrong side. The Cubs are set to host Team Italy on March 3, 2026 at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona as part of their spring training slate.