Anthony Rizzo soaks in emotional Chicago homecoming: ‘Remember forever’

CHICAGO — Anthony Rizzo received a hero’s welcome in his first trip back to Wrigley Field.

It was an emotional and nostalgic day for the veteran first baseman who helped the Cubs win their first World Series championship in 108 years in 2016.

In his first time back since being traded to the Yankees in 2021, the Cubs played a tribute video before the game, which was followed by a thunderous ovation and Rizzo’s tearing up as he took the field to salute the crowd of 40,101.

“Just grateful, amazing,” Rizzo said. “It was a great moment and something I’ll remember forever and cherish forever. Obviously all the time here was special, but to be able to come back and share that moment and have Emily, my wife, and my family on the field was something I’ll never forget.”

Another standing ovation came as Rizzo walked to the plate for his first at-bat in the second inning, with the Cubs playing his old walk-up song (“Intoxicated”) that got the crowd going again.

On the ride to Wrigley, Rizzo looked out the bus window and noticed a choppy Lake Michigan, which he knew meant the wind would be blowing in during the game.