The Leadoff Man

Anthony Rizzo is coming back to Wrigley Field this weekend, but this time he’ll be in Yankee pinstripes. Cubs fans know that no matter where Rizzo plays, he’ll always be a Chicago Cub in their hearts. From his crucial role in ending the Cubs’ 108-year championship drought to his leadership on and off the field, Rizzo's legacy at Wrigley Field is cemented. Let's look at the top five moments fans still talk about as the Cubs prepare to host the Yankees this weekend.

Rizzo’s Championship-Sealing Catch: A Moment for the Ages

Rizzo's final out catch in the 2016 World Series ended the Cubs’ 108-year championship drought.

November 2nd 2016

This was the moment Cubs fans had waited over a century for—Rizzo securing the final out in the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Guardians (then Indians). With Kris Bryant’s throw, Rizzo caught the last out and slipped the ball into his back pocket, as history was made. That instant is frozen in time, and every Cubs fan who saw it will never forget the look of disbelief and joy that swept through Wrigleyville. It wasn’t just a catch; it was the culmination of decades of hope, heartbreak, and ultimate triumph. Rizzo’s involvement in that moment alone solidified his legendary status, but his connection to the Cubs was much deeper than just one play.

The Tarp Catch: Athleticism at its Finest

Rizzo's athletic, diving catch over the tarp showcased his dedication and skill.

August 12th 2015

In a regular-season game, Anthony Rizzo showed Cubs fans what he was all about—putting his body on the line for every out. In pursuit of a foul ball, Rizzo launched himself over the tarp, making an unbelievable catch that became an instant classic. It was the perfect example of his heart and hustle on the field, always playing like it was Game 7 of the World Series. Whether it was a low-stakes situation or the highest of pressures, Rizzo never took a play off. That kind of play cemented his reputation as one of the best defensive first basemen in the league and a leader who led by example.

Taking on the Reds: He Became Our Leader

Rizzo's confrontation with the entire Reds bench proved his leadership and fearlessness.

July 10th 2014

During a heated game against the Cincinnati Reds, Anthony Rizzo wasn’t going to let anyone push his team around. After a scuffle started, Rizzo charged toward the entire Reds bench, defending his teammates and showing he was willing to stand up for the Cubs, no matter the odds. It was this fearless leadership that set him apart—not just his stats or plays on the field, but his willingness to back his team. Cubs fans adored him for this fire, and his “take-no-nonsense” attitude made him beloved in Chicago. It was leadership moments like this that helped carry the Cubs to the pinnacle of baseball.

Rizzo’s Candid Moment: He Was All of Us in Game 7

As the weight of Game 7 mounted, Rizzo turned to Ross and said, "I'm an emotional wreck," capturing what every Cubs fan was feeling.

November 2nd 2016

In one of the most relatable and human moments of the 2016 World Series, Anthony Rizzo gave Cubs fans a glimpse into his mind—and in doing so, he became the emotional stand-in for all of us. With the game tied and the anxiety of breaking the 108-year championship drought pressing down, Rizzo turned to David Ross and confessed, “I’m an emotional wreck right now.” It was a raw, honest admission that reflected the tension every fan was feeling in that moment.

Ross, the steadying presence and clubhouse leader, replied with a touch of humor: “It’s only going to get worse.” That simple response lightened the mood, allowing both Rizzo and fans to breathe for a second amidst the chaos of Game 7. Rizzo's willingness to show vulnerability, even in the most intense situation of his career, exemplified what made him a beloved leader. He was strong when needed, but he also wasn’t afraid to show his emotions, proving that even the toughest competitors feel the pressure.

For Cubs fans, it was a reminder that the players on the field were feeling the same anxiety and excitement as the millions of fans watching. This "emotional wreck" moment has become one of the most enduring memories from the Cubs' championship run—because, in that moment, Rizzo wasn’t just a player; he was all of us, fighting to keep it together as the Cubs stood on the cusp of history

The 14-Pitch Battle: Rizzo’s Legendary At-Bat Against the Cardinals in June 2021

Anthony Rizzo’s epic 14-pitch at-bat ended with a game-tying home run against the Cardinals in June 2021, embodying his relentless spirit.

June 11th 2021

Few at-bats in recent memory have encapsulated Anthony Rizzo’s grit and determination more than his legendary 14-pitch showdown against the St. Louis Cardinals in June 2021. Down 0-2 in the count, Rizzo battled Cardinals pitcher Daniel Ponce de Leon, fouling off pitch after pitch, as the tension inside Wrigley Field continued to build. With each swing, the crowd grew louder, sensing that something special was brewing.

Finally, on the 14th pitch, Rizzo unleashed the moment fans had been waiting for—he crushed a game-tying home run into the right-field bleachers, sending Wrigley into absolute pandemonium. One fan (@Haleyessie) recalled, “People went INSANE, and it was magic… I’m so happy I’m a Cubs fan because they’re the best.” It was a moment that captured the passion of Cubs fans and Rizzo’s relentless drive to deliver in big moments, no matter the odds.

Fellow fan @bradenwhite4952 joked, “Rizzo wasn’t actually trying to get a hit in this at-bat. He was just trying to give out souvenirs” with all the foul balls he sent into the stands. But in the end, Rizzo did more than give out souvenirs—he gave Cubs fans a moment to cherish forever.

Taking on the hated St. Louis Cardinals made it even sweeter, as Rizzo’s heroics tied the game and reaffirmed why he was the heart and soul of the Cubs lineup. This at-bat stands as a reminder of why Cubs fans will always love Rizzo: his resilience, power, and clutch performances in the moments that mattered most.

The Closer

Anthony Rizzo’s Cubs legacy is filled with iconic moments, but for me, it all started during his very first at-bat with the team. I was on a dinner date with my wife, and while she was probably expecting a romantic evening, I had my phone propped up on my drink cup, glued to the screen. When she asked what I was doing, I told her—because, of course, as a delusional Cubs fan—“This is a big moment. I have to see Rizzo’s Cubs debut.” She knew what she was getting into with my sports obsession, and I love her even more for allowing me to be a fool for the Cubs.

Rizzo became part of our lives, bringing joy, frustration, and eventually the sweetest victory of all—a 2016 World Series. Now, as we reflect on Rizzo’s top moments, it’s clear his impact was much more than just stats and plays. He’s woven into our memories, our relationships, and our love for the Cubs. As Rizzo returns to Wrigley this weekend, it’s one more chance to celebrate the player who captured our hearts—and for me, to thank my wife for letting me be a Cubs fool in love.

Go Cubs Go!