GOOD NEWS: Cubs Officially Announce The Return of Former Star Anthony Rizzo After Lengthy Free Agency Silence

After months of silence, speculation, and swirling rumors, Chicago Cubs fans can finally breathe a massive sigh of relief: Anthony Rizzo is officially returning to Wrigley Field. In a move that has electrified the fan base and reignited hopes for a postseason push, the Cubs announced the signing of the veteran first baseman this morning, confirming what many fans had long hoped for — a Wrigley reunion with one of the team’s most beloved figures.

Rizzo Is Back Where He Belongs

Anthony Rizzo, 35, had remained unsigned deep into the 2025 MLB season, prompting widespread speculation about his future in baseball. After spending the last few years with the New York Yankees, the left-handed slugger was notably absent from spring training rosters and stayed quiet on social media, leading some to wonder whether retirement was looming.

But all of that changed today when the Cubs front office officially confirmed a one-year deal with Rizzo, reportedly including a mutual option for 2026. Terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed, but sources say Rizzo took a team-friendly contract to make his return possible.

In a heartfelt message released through the Cubs’ official channels, Rizzo said:

“Chicago has always been home. This city, these fans, this ballpark — they helped shape my career and my life. I never wanted to say goodbye permanently. I’m thrilled to wear Cubs blue again and chase another championship at Wrigley.”

A Hero’s Return

Rizzo played a key role in the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series championship, breaking a 108-year drought and cementing his legacy as one of the most important figures in franchise history. Over his previous stint with the Cubs from 2012 to 2021, he became a fan favorite not just for his clutch hitting and slick defense, but for his leadership and community work off the field.

Many Cubs fans had never quite accepted his departure in 2021, when he was traded to the Yankees as part of a major midseason teardown. His return now feels like a storybook ending — or perhaps a promising new chapter.

Front Office Speaks Out

Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer spoke at a press conference shortly after the announcement:

“Anthony Rizzo means a great deal to this organization. We’ve been in talks quietly for a few weeks now, and when it became clear he was healthy and motivated, it was a no-brainer. He brings leadership, championship pedigree, and a bat we believe can still do damage in the middle of the order.”

Hoyer added that Rizzo would be “activated immediately” and could be in the lineup as soon as this weekend, depending on his physical condition and batting practice results.

What Rizzo Brings in 2025

Though injuries hampered his production in 2024 with the Yankees, Rizzo still posted respectable numbers when healthy and brings a veteran presence that can’t be overstated. He’s expected to platoon at first base and DH, sharing duties with younger players and offering much-needed stability for a Cubs team fighting for position in the NL Central.

The Cubs are currently hovering near .500 and could use a morale and performance boost. Rizzo’s arrival might just be the spark they need.

Fan Reaction: Electric

Wrigleyville and Cubs social media lit up instantly following the announcement, with phrases like “Rizzo is back”, “Wrigley legend returns,” and “Captain Cub” trending across platforms.

One fan outside the stadium said:

“It’s emotional. Rizzo is our guy — always was, always will be. Seeing him back in that uniform is like getting a piece of our soul back.”

Others are already calling for a standing ovation when he takes the field for the first time back at Wrigley, with some suggesting the team should officially retire his number once he hangs up his cleats for good.

Looking Ahead

While expectations should be measured given Rizzo’s age and recent health history, his return represents something bigger than just statistics. For a franchise that has cycled through multiple rosters since 2016, this signing is a return to identity, heart, and pride.

Whether or not the Cubs make a deep playoff run this year, one thing is clear: Anthony Rizzo’s return has already made this season unforgettable.