Anthony Rizzo Inspires with Stellar Performance and Philanthropy

Anthony Rizzo, a veteran first baseman, has built a notable Major League Baseball career with the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres. Born August 8, 1989, in Parkland, Florida, Rizzo was drafted in the sixth round of the 2007 MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox directly out of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. He made his MLB debut in 2011 and has since become known for his power hitting and consistent defensive play at first base. Rizzo’s career is highlighted by over 1,600 hits, more than 300 home runs, and a .261 career batting average across 14 seasons. He has won a World Series with the Chicago Cubs and has been recognized for his leadership both on and off the field. In 2024, Rizzo played for the Yankees, posting a .228 batting average with 8 home runs and over 150 RBIs, contributing as a reliable presence in the Yankees’ lineup (Anthony Rizzo ESPN Profile). Rizzo’s impact extends beyond statistics. He overcame Hodgkin’s lymphoma early in his professional career, returning to the field after remission in 2008. Inspired by his own journey, he established the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation in 2012 to support pediatric cancer patients and their families. His perseverance and charitable work have made him a respected figure throughout baseball. Rizzo has earned several accolades, including multiple Gold Glove awards for defensive excellence. Notably, he ranks among MLB’s leaders in times hit by pitch, recently surpassing 200 career HBPs. Throughout his tenure with the Cubs, Rizzo was a key contributor, posting several 100-RBI seasons and serving as a team captain during their 2016 World Series championship run. He joined the Yankees in 2021 and quickly became an essential part of their lineup, providing clutch home runs and veteran leadership. As of 2024, Rizzo continues to be a fixture at first base for the Yankees, demonstrating his trademark left-handed power and steady glove. His career trajectory and off-field contributions underscore his lasting influence on the game and the communities he supports.