CHICAGO — An emotional new chapter is unfolding at Wrigley Field as Chicago Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo officially returns to baseball as a commentator for the 2026 season.
No longer a first baseman, no longer a leader on the field, but for Cubs fans, this return is no less significant than a blockbuster signing.
Because, for Chicago… Rizzo never truly left.
After officially retiring in 2025, ending a 14-year MLB career, Anthony Rizzo quickly found a new path to continue his connection with the sport that made his name.
And now, he will enter the 2026 season in a completely different role: commentator and analyst for NBC’s MLB broadcast system.
According to the official announcement, Rizzo will appear in pre-game programs and major broadcasts such as Sunday Night Baseball and postseason coverage.
It’s not just a new job.
It’s his way of continuing to tell the story of baseball—in a different way.
For Cubs fans, Anthony Rizzo is more than just a player.
He helped end the 108-year World Series wait in 2016. One of the most important leaders in the team’s modern history and the face of an entire generation of Cubs.
Therefore, Rizzo’s return—though not in a playing uniform—warms Wrigley Field again.
“It feels like he’s still here,” one fan shared.
“It’s just that this time, he’s behind the microphone.”
Anthony Rizzo is no stranger to the media.
Throughout his career, he’s known as one of the most approachable, straightforward, and capable players who connects with fans.
That makes him an ideal choice for a commentator role.
According to sources, NBC targeted Rizzo not only for his name, but also for his “storytelling ability and unique understanding of the game.”
And for Cubs fans, that’s even more special.
Because every time Rizzo speaks, it’s not just analysis…it’s a resurgence of memories.
Rizzo’s journey is one of the Cubs’ most beautiful stories:
From a young prospect
To an All-Star
To a World Series champion
And now, to the narrator of that very story
He caught the final out in the 2016 World Series, becoming an icon of the Cubs for over a decade. And now, he will bring all those experiences into his commentary.
After retiring, Rizzo has maintained a close connection with the Cubs, even becoming an ambassador for the team and frequently appearing at Wrigley Field.
That makes one thing clear:
The Cubs are more than just a team with Rizzo.
It’s his home.
And whatever his role, he’s always been a part of Chicago.
The 2026 season is now more than just baseball. It’s about Rizzo’s on-screen appearances, behind-the-scenes stories, and retold memories.
Fans don’t just want to hear him analyze the game. They want to hear him talk about Wrigley Field, the 2016 days, and the feeling of wearing a Cubs jersey.
A new chapter, but not the end.
Anthony Rizzo may have left the baseball field.
But his story… continues.
No longer about swings. No longer about catches.
But about stories. Memories. Commentary that carries an entire career.
In sports, there are great players. And there are those you remember forever.
Anthony Rizzo is both.
Now, he won’t be the one creating the moments.
He’ll be the one telling them.
And for Cubs fans, that might mean more than any home run.
