According to Bruce Levine of 670 The Score, “GM of the WBC team Italy, Ned Colletti, said that he asked former Cub Anthony Rizzo to participate on team Italy this spring. Rizzo is still deciding.”

Rizzo’s last hit in the big leagues came back on October 28th, 2024 in Game 3 of the World Series. After that, the Yankees declined Rizzo’s option and not many teams popped up to claim the services of the player. It didn’t help that the first baseman posted .228/.301/.335 over the course of 375 plate appearances.

Rizzo has a history on WBC

The World Baseball Classic is a huge event and Italy is not one of the juggernauts. Countries like United States, Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, Cuba, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Mexico or many others could serve as either candidates or potential dark horses. However, Italy doesn’t fall into that category. Still, Rizzo has managed to get some memories out of the Azzurri in previous WBCs.

For instance, a two-run double in the ninth gave Italy a win against Mexico on their tournament debut in the 2013 edition. Rizzo coming back would help Italy get a solid presence in first base and plenty of experience.

When is the 2026 World Baseball Classic taking place?

The sixth iteration of the WBC will feature 20 national baseball teams and it will be played in the cities of Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. The last edition was back in 2023 and Japan won as Shohei Ohtani delivered a strikeout over Mike Trout of Team USA.

The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place from March 5th until March 17th. The Americas have 11 teams (Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, United States, and Venezuela). Asia will have three teams representing the continent (Chinese Taipei, Japan, South Korea). Europe has five teams (Czechia, Great Britain, Israel, Italy, and Netherlands). Finally, Oceania has Australia as its lone representative.

Anthony Rizzo’s story is stitched into the soul of Chicago baseball. A first baseman defined by loyalty and grit, his career reflects more than home runs or trophies—it embodies the spirit of a franchise and a city that embraced him fully.

After years of unforgettable moments, he chose to close his playing days with the Chicago Cubs. His retirement marks a fitting homecoming, a celebration of leadership and the bond he built with fans at Wrigley Field that endures forever.

Stepping away from the diamond, he begins his next chapter as a Cubs ambassador. His influence extends beyond the MLB, ensuring his presence will inspire future generations and preserve a timeless legacy.

What is Anthony Rizzo’s net worth?

Few numbers capture the arc of a career like net worth — but for Anthony Rizzo, that figure tells only part of the story. As of mid-2025, Sportskeeda pegs his net worth at around $27 million, a reflection of steady success on and off the field.

This sum stems from years of peak performance at first base, highlighted by All-Star nods, Gold Gloves, and a signature place in Cubs lore. But it also whispers of Rizzo’s off-field footprint, symbolized by local endorsements.

Net worth is a snapshot, not the whole portrait. It frames lessons in stewardship: how talent, public trust, and giving back intersect in the long game of reputation—something his story illustrates beyond the blinding lights of big contracts.

What was Anthony Rizzo’s salary with the Chicago Cubs?

In 2013, Anthony Rizzo locked in a pivotal seven-year extension with Chicago worth $41 million, including a $2 million signing bonus—an investment that underpinned a decade of both production and identity for the franchise.

By the time the Cubs picked up his option for the 2021 season, he was earning $16.5 million. Later, with the Yankees, his annual salary hovered around $17 million, backed by a $40 million guaranteed deal over two years.

These headline numbers tell a deeper truth. In baseball’s economic ecosystem, they mark the trust a franchise places in a player’s character, leadership, and consistency. They also trace an arc from rising prospect to franchise anchor.

Anthony Rizzo’s career earnings

Eagle-eyed fans know that net worth and career earnings aren’t interchangeable—but career earnings themselves tell a powerful story. By mid-2025, his total salary earnings across MLB reportedly surpassed the $120 million mark.

That figure tallies across multiple stages: his breakout with the Cubs, the extension of his prime years, and his later Yankees contract. Added up, it reflects a career that never skimmed the surface, but remained firmly among the financial leaders at first base.

More than a tally, those earnings chart a journey—from survivor of Hodgkin’s lymphoma to World Series champion to enduring presence in clubhouse culture. The numbers matter—but the legacy behind them matters more.

Anthony Rizzo’s endorsements in MLB

Off-field, Anthony Rizzo’s footprint extends into brands that echo his values—like State Farm, Sony, BodyArmor and Chicago’s beloved Buona Beef. Each partnership reflects both visibility and community alignment.

In Chicago, “the Rizzo Way” isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a charitable model: every order helps fund his foundation, which supports pediatric cancer research and families facing hardship.

Endorsements are often transactional, but in his case, they read like a story of reciprocal respect: between player, fans, and community. It’s where influence becomes stewardship, and presence becomes promise.

Anthony Rizzo’s investments

Anthony Rizzo’s financial acumen extends well beyond the baseball field. As of mid-2025, he has diversified his portfolio through various business ventures and investments, reflecting a keen eye for opportunities outside of sports.

One notable aspect of his investment strategy is his involvement in private equity. He serves as a Managing Director at Areté Capital Partners, bringing over twenty-five years of experience in operational and commercial management, as well as corporate strategy.

Rizzo’s career is defined not only by his on-field accomplishments but also by his leadership and resilience. He played a pivotal role in the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series championship, breaking a 108-year title drought.

Beyond statistics, Rizzo became a clubhouse leader and a fan favorite, widely respected for his charitable work and commitment to the city of Chicago. His presence helped shape a golden era for the franchise, leaving a lasting impression on teammates and fans alike.

Fans across social media have shared heartfelt reactions to the announcement. “Rizzo was a massive reason why I fell in love with the Cubs. So happy he’s coming home and retiring with the Cubs. Cub for life,” wrote one user.

Another added, “Chi-Town Legend, thank you Rizzo,” while many others praised his character and impact on the game. One fan even noted, “One of my favorite players of all time, and I’m a Reds fan… Great career, you were always fun to watch!”

How will the Cubs honor Rizzo?

While the specifics of a farewell celebration have not been announced, the organization is expected to honor Rizzo in a meaningful way, potentially with a ceremony at Wrigley Field or a future induction into the Cubs Hall of Fame.

Fans and the broader MLB community are expected to commemorate his contributions both on and off the field, celebrating a career marked by excellence, leadership, and community impact.

As Anthony Rizzo steps away from the game, his legacy will endure as a reminder of dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of sports in the lives of fans and teammates. For Chicago, Rizzo will forever be remembered as a cornerstone of one of the most celebrated chapters in Cubs history.

In sports, there are players who make history, and Rizzo did just that with the Chicago Cubs by leading the team to their last World Series title. The 2016 season is one that the organization will never forget, and the fans had plenty to celebrate that year.

After leaving the Cubs, Rizzo’s time with the Yankees elevated his career to new heights. Although the outcomes were not as expected, Rizzo earned the respect of everyone within the franchise. The fan base appreciates his contributions during the latter part of his career as a Yankee.

Now, with his decision to officially retire from MLB after not playing this season, Rizzo is expected to support the Cubs in a new role. He will serve as one of the team’s ambassadors in the coming years.

How many MLB games did Rizzo play in Chicago?

During his time with the Chicago Cubs, Anthony Rizzo played in 1,308 regular season games and 39 postseason games. Rizzo was instrumental in leading the Cubs to a historic World Series win in 2016 and helped the team reach the postseason five times over his ten-year tenure with the franchise.

During his illustrious tenure with the franchise, Rizzo amassed an impressive array of personal accolades, including three All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger Award, four Gold Gloves, and the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award. He was also a formidable contender for the MVP title, finishing in the top five in both 2015 and 2016.

Rizzo’s career statistics further cement his legacy as one of the pivotal figures in Chicago Cubs history. He notched 1,311 hits, launched 242 home runs, and drove in 784 runs. Additionally, he stole 62 bases and drew 62 walks. Rizzo’s offensive contributions, including a batting line of .272/.372/.489 and an OPS of .861, were instrumental in the team’s success and secured his place among the franchise’s all-time greats in MLB.

Despite the on-field struggles, Rizzo brought smiles to fans’ faces. The recently retired star, who hung up his cleats in 2024, was seen enjoying a beer and interacting with fans when featured on the jumbotron, sparking nostalgia on social media as fans reminisced about the day he boldly announced his departure from the Cubs to join the Yankees.

During a recent interview on the “Glory Daze” podcast, Rizzo reflected on the pivotal moment he was traded to the Yankees and its significance. “Professionally, getting traded to the New York Yankees was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Rizzo stated.

Rizzo elaborated, “I cherished my time in Chicago, but I truly matured in New York City. In Chicago, there was almost a level of comfort, knowing the routine, the support staff, everything. Moving to New York forced me to regain my footing and remind everyone of my capabilities.“

Rizzo reflects on his Yankees tenure

For Rizzo, donning the Yankees pinstripes was more than just a career move; it was an opportunity for personal growth. Re-adjusting to a new environment in the MLB spotlight allowed him to connect with his true potential, a sentiment he shared during the interview.

“Earning that respect again was thrilling. Joining a clubhouse with stars like Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge, DJ LeMahieu, and Gerrit Cole, I felt the need to prove why I belonged,” Rizzo reflected on his tenure with the team.

Rizzo’s impact with the Yankees

Rizzo, who was one of the premier hitters during his Cubs tenure, faced challenges replicating that success in New York. Over 370 games with the Yankees, Rizzo recorded 315 hits, 60 home runs, 172 RBIs, and scored 192 runs.

With a slash line of .234/.326/.409, Rizzo made concerted efforts to adapt during his four-year stint in New York, though his impact was not as decisive as expected. Now retired and watching from the stands, Rizzo hopes to provide support as the Yankees chase their playoff aspirations.

Following the game, a reporter asked Rizzo how difficult it was to exit the World Series this way, knowing he’d had high hopes with the Yankees. Rizzo began his response with, “It’s heartbreaking,” emphasizing that the feeling extended to the entire team.

“It’s heartbreaking for this group, just because of how close you have to come together, as one, as a brotherhood, to get to this point… to wear this jersey is something special that I wish every baseball player gets to feel because it’s a different feeling wearing this jersey. I’ve loved every second of it.”

Rizzo played a part in the errors that led to the Yankees’ Game 5 collapse. The misplay at first base involving him and Gerrit Cole in the fifth inning was seen as the start of the unraveling, which ultimately cost the Yankees their 5-0 lead.

Rizzo Hopes to Return Next Year

In his remarks after the Game 5 loss to the Dodgers, Rizzo hinted at his desire to play another season with the Yankees, saying, “I feel like I have a lot left to offer in this game in a lot of different ways. I don’t want to take this off.” However, he acknowledged that things would inevitably change, and the roster might not include the same faces next year.

“After every year, that’s it. That’s the last time you’ll ever be with that exact team, these exact people in this moment.” Rizzo recognized that some of his Yankees teammates might leave unless they receive new contracts, including players like Alex Verdugo, Juan Soto, and Gleyber Torres.

Anthony Rizzo contributed with a run and a single in Game 3 at Yankee Stadium, where the New York Yankees dropped their third straight game in the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. But what stood out most was his clear message to the Dodgers about what to expect in the next home game.

If there’s one player who came away with high spirits after the home loss that put the Yankees down 0-3 in the World Series, it was Rizzo. He wasted no time revealing the team’s mindset for Game 4 against the Dodgers.

“I don’t see us just laying down tomorrow. I expect us to show up and be ready to go and just win one game; that’s our mentality.” He added that it wouldn’t be easy to get a win but that they would find inspiration somewhere for the game.

“It’s not gonna be easy. We’ve got to pull some inspiration from somewhere. It’s happened before; teams have come back before. It’s gonna sting tonight, but tomorrow, when we show up, we’ll be ready to play.”

Rizzo’s Message to Yankees Fans

On the disappointment felt by fans after the Game 3 loss, with the odds stacked heavily against the Yankees, Rizzo had a few words, acknowledging he understands their pain and shares in it.

“For most of us, we haven’t been here for 15 years. I understand the fans; it’s been a long time in the making. I grew up a Yankee fan, as well.” It’s worth noting that Rizzo is playing in his third postseason with the team, marking his first World Series with the Bronx Bombers.

Anthony Rizzo couldn’t score or collect a hit during Game 2 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking another unproductive game for him. Despite the loss, the New York Yankees first baseman didn’t hold back and clarified something about what could happen in Game 3 in the Bronx.

According to Rizzo’s latest comments following the 4-2 loss in the second game in L.A., he said the Yankees only need to win Game 3 to shift all the pressure onto the Los Angeles Dodgers and, in turn, extend the series.

“The biggest thing is if we win that game Monday, the pressure goes to the other side and you make this a series.” In addition to what his team needs to do for Game 3, Rizzo expressed full confidence in his teammates, saying, “I have full confidence in us. We’ve just got to win on Monday.”

Despite Rizzo’s faith, he has yet to be a key player for the Yankees in this World Series, managing just one hit in Game 1, with three strikeouts in five at-bats so far.

Rizzo Comments on Aaron Judge’s Situation

It’s not only critics and analysts who have noticed Aaron Judge’s struggles at the plate; teammates like Anthony Rizzo are aware, too. Rizzo addressed the issue, saying that these moments serve to define Judge even more, showing he remains his steady self.

Does Rizzo Have World Series Experience?

Beyond the two recent games against the Dodgers, Rizzo brings prior World Series experience, having played in all seven games that led the Chicago Cubs to a 4-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in 2016.

“I mean overall… it’s an awful time, but it happened for a reason. I’m trying to process it,” Rizzo stated, reflecting on how he’s coping with his hand fracture, which, according to manager Aaron Boone, isn’t a severe break—just a fracture in one of his fingers.

When asked if he envisions a possibility of playing in the playoffs, Rizzo replied, “In my mind, yes, definitely. But in reality…” things might be different regarding his situation with the New York Yankees in the postseason.

“I’ve never been through this before,” he admitted, highlighting the challenges the injury has posed. However, Rizzo revealed that he felt significantly better on the morning of September 29. He also confirmed to a reporter that he would require about 3 to 4 days of rest.

Anthony Rizzo in the 2024 MLB Season

Anthony Rizzo’s last game with the New York Yankees was on September 28, during a 9-4 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he suffered a hand injury. Up until that point, Rizzo had a .228 average, 8 home runs, 35 RBIs, and a .637 OPS.

In the 2024 season, Rizzo was close to reaching 100 games but finished with 92 games, 337 at-bats, 77 hits, and 38 runs. It’s been another solid season for him since joining the Yankees in 2021. He may be replaced in the playoffs by Ben Rice, Oswaldo Cabrera, or Austin Wells.

According to Boone, Anthony Rizzo has a fracture in one of his fingers. The manager explained that the team will monitor his progress over the week, and while it’s a setback, there is hope that Rizzo won’t be entirely ruled out.

“Yeah, he has a fracture in his finger. We’ll see what we have as the week moves forward. It doesn’t totally rule him out. It’s something that is a pain tolerance thing, so we’ll see as the days unfold here,” Boone said.

The Yankees’ manager added that Rizzo is dealing with some swelling in his hand, though not severe. Boone is understandably concerned about heading into the playoffs without a key player like Rizzo, who plays an essential role as the team’s first baseman.

“No question, he’s come back and done a really good job for us. Obviously, he’s helping anchor our defense, and I feel like he’s been giving us good at-bats too, even at the bottom of the order. We’ll see what happens moving forward. I don’t want to jump to any conclusions,” Boone said.

Anthony Rizzo’s 2024 MLB Season

Rizzo has appeared in 92 games during the Yankees’ 2024 campaign, marking his fourth season with the franchise and his third consecutive year playing over 90 games.

So far this season, Rizzo has scored 38 runs, tallied 77 hits (his third-best mark with the Yankees), and recorded 35 RBIs. He’s also posted a .228 batting average in 337 at-bats. If Rizzo isn’t available, potential replacements include Oswaldo Cabrera and Austin Wells, according to the Yankees’ depth chart.

The history of the Chicago Cubs is stitched together by triumphs, heartbreaks, and unforgettable names. From Wrigley’s ivy-covered walls to the echoes of cheering crowds, every era has left behind players who became timeless figures.

Some carried the team on their backs during droughts, while others shined brightest under the pressure of October lights. The balance of grit, talent and enduring loyalty has made the Cubs a franchise defined not only by championships but by character.

Generations of fans have celebrated legends who stood as more than athletes, embodying the spirit of Chicago itself. Their stories reveal why the Cubs remain one of MLB’s most storied franchises, rich with icons who shaped its legacy.

25. Andre Dawson (1987-92)

Few Cubs ever transformed Wrigley with such roar as Andre “The Hawk” Dawson. He soared into Chicago in 1987 via one of the most audacious contract stories—handing the team a blank deal—and promptly seized the National League MVP that same year, leading the league with 49 home runs and 137 RBIs. His cannon arm and Gold Gloves brought flair to every outfield catch, making him as beloved for his skill as for his bold spirit.

24. Aramis Ramírez (2003-11)

A Dominican slugger who blended grace with guile, Aramis Ramírez became a steady force at third base. With Cubs, he compiled a .294/.356/.531 slash line, pummeled 239 home runs, and knocked in 806 RBIs, earning two All-Star nods and a Hank Aaron Award in 2008. His consistency often made him a sleeper Hall of Fame candidate, adored by insiders for stepping up when needed.

23. Phil Cavarretta (1934-53)

Known affectionately as “Mr. Cub” in the 1940s, Phil Cavarretta‘s tie to Chicago ran deep—20 seasons with the club, capped with an MVP in 1945, when he hit .355 to lead the Cubs to a pennant. A hometown hero whose swing and batting eye stood the test of time—he even faced Babe Ruth in his early career.

22. Rick Sutcliffe (1984-91)

The Cubs’ 1984 savior, Rick Sutcliffe arrived midseason and delivered a Cy Young-winning 16–1 record—single-handedly reinvigorating a thawing franchise. His 15-strikeout outing against the Phillies still ranks as a signature Wrigley Field moment, mixing power on the mound with clutch production at the plate.

21. Derrek Lee (2004-10)

Few Cubs leapt as high or swung as true as Derrek Lee did in 2005. His torrid season—.335 average, 46 homers, 50 doubles, and a 7+ WAR—was one of the best in modern franchise history, earning both Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards. Beyond that peak, he remained a rare blend of power and polish, delivering quietly consistent excellence at first base.

20. Kerry Wood (1998-2008, 2011-12)

Kerry Wood burst onto the scene with what many still call the greatest rookie start ever—20 strikeouts in a complete-game shutout against the Astros, earning him Rookie of the Year honors in 1998. Though injuries dogged his career, his 80 wins, 1,470 strikeouts, and strikeout-per-nine-inns record remain enduring pillars of Cubs lore.

19. Carlos Zambrano (2001-11)

A firebrand on the mound, Carlos Zambrano brought intensity and power to starting rotation through a decade with the Cubs. Known for his bulldog mentality, three All-Star nods, and a Classic pitcher’s arsenal of curves and composure, Zambrano became one of the most emotionally engaging Cubs of his era.

18. Bruce Sutter (1976-80)

When the Cubs acquired Bruce Sutter in May 1976, they didn’t just get a reliever—they ushered in a new era of bullpen dominance. In 1977, he dazzled with a 1.34 ERA, earned an All-Star nod, and spectacularly struck out three batters on nine pitches in a single inning—an immaculate inning that cemented his legend. By 1979, he tied the National League saves record with 37 and captured the NL Cy Young Award, becoming a premier closer of his time.

17. Don Kessinger (1964-75)

Don Kessinger’s story begins with a late call-up in 1964, followed by a chance to redefine shortstop for the Cubs. Though his initial batting average was modest, his range and instincts stood out, earning him a starting role and eventually six All-Star selections and two Gold Gloves.

In 1969, he peaked—with a remarkable errorless streak, a .273 batting average, and the highest assists among NL shortstops—cementing himself as one of the franchise’s defensive anchors.

16. Lee Smith (1980-88)

Lee Smith turned the closer’s role into an art form. Debuting with the Cubs in 1980, he gradually filled the void left by Sutter, blooming into a fearsome bullpen presence. By 1983, he was leading the National League with 29 saves and a stellar 1.65 ERA, earning All-Star honors and becoming a bedrock in the Cubs’ return to postseason contention in 1984. ver his career, he would amass a then-record 478 saves, rank among the most trusted high-leverage arms in baseball, and ultimately be enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

15. Billy Herman (1931-41)

Acquired in 1931 for a then-astonishing sum of $50,000, Billy Herman quickly became a Cubs mainstay at second base. A consistent offensive threat, he regularly hit over .300 and led the league in triples and hits during the mid-1930s. His defensive reliability paired with his offensive output made him one of the most polished second basemen of his day and later earned him induction into the Hall of Fame.

14. Mark Grace (1988-00)

Mark Grace exemplified steady excellence throughout his Cubs career. He became one of the 1990s’ most prolific hitters—leading the decade in hits and doubles—and finished with a career on-base percentage of .383.

Four Gold Gloves and three All-Star appearances mirror his all-around skill. His 1989 NLCS performance, batting .647 with eight RBIs in five games, remains one of the most clutch postseason displays in franchise history.

13. Anthony Rizzo (2012-Present)

Anthony Rizzo became the face of the Cubs’ renaissance, combining leadership, charisma, and clutch hitting. His glove at first base brought stability, while his bat delivered power and consistency. He was a cornerstone of the 2016 World Series run, embodying resilience after years of franchise struggles.

Beyond his numbers, his presence off the field further cemented his legacy. His charity work and battle against cancer made him a beloved figure in Chicago sports. For a team desperate for identity, Rizzo provided not just production but a cultural heartbeat.

12. Randy Hundley (1966-73, 1976-77)

Randy Hundley redefined catching for the Cubs with his durability and defensive mastery. Known for pioneering the one-handed catching style, he became a fixture behind the plate during a transformative period. His ability to manage pitchers and his leadership were invaluable.

His influence stretched beyond stats—he became a bridge between eras of Cubs baseball. Even when injuries slowed him down, his importance to the franchise never wavered. His legacy carried on through family ties, with his son Todd also playing in the majors.

11. Hack Wilson (1926-31)

Hack Wilson’s bat was thunderous, and his 1930 season remains legendary with 56 home runs and 191 RBIs, records that stood for decades. Stocky and powerful, he was the heart of the Cubs’ offense, striking fear into pitchers with his explosive swing.

Despite a career shortened by personal struggles, his impact on Chicago baseball is immortal. His feats made him one of the most dominant sluggers of his era, and his name still resonates as a symbol of raw power and offensive brilliance.

10. Stan Hack (1932-47)

Stan Hack was the definition of steady excellence, anchoring third base for 16 seasons. A five-time All-Star, he combined reliable defense with a sharp batting eye, making him one of the most consistent hitters in Cubs history.

He also brought leadership, captaining teams through both highs and lows. Known as “Smiling Stan,” he became a fan favorite whose professionalism set the standard. His long tenure and quiet consistency made him one of the most underrated stars of his generation.

9. Mordecai Brown (1904-12, 1916)

Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown overcame a childhood farming accident to become a Hall of Fame pitcher. His unique grip gave his pitches devastating movement, baffling hitters throughout the dead-ball era. He was the ace of the Cubs dynasty that won back-to-back World Series titles in 1907 and 1908.

His duels with Christy Mathewson defined baseball’s early rivalries, showcasing precision and grit. His story remains one of perseverance and mastery, proving that physical adversity could be transformed into a competitive edge.

8. Frank Chance (1898-1912)

Frank Chance wasn’t just a first baseman—he was a leader who helped shape the Cubs’ golden era. As the “Peerless Leader,” he guided Chicago to four pennants and two World Series championships, carving his name into baseball lore.

Alongside Tinker and Evers, he formed part of the most famous infield combination in history. His ability to inspire teammates and demand excellence made him a central figure in establishing the Cubs as an early powerhouse.

7. Sammy Sosa (1992-04)

Sammy Sosa brought spectacle to Wrigley Field, turning home run chases into national events. His 1998 duel with Mark McGwire electrified baseball, and his prodigious power made him the face of the Cubs during an era when the franchise needed hope.

Beyond his long balls, his energy, charisma, and signature hop after home runs made him unforgettable. While controversies clouded the end of his career, his contributions to Cubs history are undeniable—he was one of the franchise’s most dynamic performers.

6. Greg Maddux (1986-92, 2004-06)

Greg Maddux began his legendary career in Chicago, developing into one of the most cerebral pitchers in baseball history. His pinpoint control, command of the strike zone, and ability to outthink hitters made him a future Hall of Famer.

Although he earned most of his accolades with Atlanta, his Cubs years were pivotal. His Cy Young Award in 1992 marked the rise of a generational talent. His later return to Chicago brought his career full circle, adding a nostalgic chapter to his legacy.

5. Cap Anson (1876-1897)

Cap Anson was the first true superstar of professional baseball, serving as player-manager for over two decades. His batting prowess and leadership helped establish the Cubs—then known as the White Stockings—as a dominant 19th-century team.

His influence extended beyond the field, shaping the professionalization of the sport itself. Though his views on race cast a long shadow, his role in early baseball history and his longevity with the Cubs remain undeniable.

4. Billy Williams (1959-74)

Billy Williams embodied elegance at the plate, combining smooth power with remarkable consistency. Nicknamed “Sweet Swingin’ Billy,” he was a six-time All-Star and the 1972 NL batting champion, becoming one of the Cubs’ most reliable hitters.

Durability defined his career—he once played 1,117 consecutive games, earning him comparisons to Cal Ripken Jr. His graceful approach and steady production made him a cornerstone of the Cubs lineup for more than a decade.

3. Ron Santo (1960-73)

Ron Santo’s passion for the Cubs radiated both on and off the field. As a third baseman, he was a nine-time All-Star and five-time Gold Glove winner, combining offensive power with defensive brilliance.

After retirement, his emotional and colorful broadcasting further endeared him to fans. His long wait for Hall of Fame induction made his eventual enshrinement bittersweet, but his love for the Cubs cemented him as a legend beyond statistics.

2. Ryne Sandberg (1982–1994, 1996–1997)

Ryne Sandberg transformed second base into a position of power and athleticism. With 10 All-Star selections, nine Gold Gloves, and an MVP in 1984, he became one of the most complete players in Cubs history.

His quiet demeanor masked a fierce competitiveness. His 1984 performance helped spark a division title, and his ability to combine defense, speed, and clutch hitting made him a generational talent.

1. Ernie Banks (1953-71)

Ernie Banks, “Mr. Cub,” defined not only a franchise but an entire baseball era. His infectious optimism, captured in the phrase “Let’s play two,” symbolized joy and perseverance even when the Cubs struggled.

On the field, he was a two-time MVP who hit over 500 home runs, setting a standard for shortstops as offensive threats. Off it, he became a beloved ambassador for the game, embodying the spirit of the Chicago Cubs.