Rizzo Snags Busch’s Homer, Cubs Honor 2016 Champions

Unusual Play in the Bleachers

During Saturday’s contest against Minnesota, Cubs rookie Michael Busch launched his twelfth home run—a solo shot that bounced into the right‑field bleachers at Wrigley. Former Chicago first baseman Anthony Rizzo, now a three‑time All‑Star, sprinted behind the fence and scooped the ball off the concrete after it landed. He perched the ball high above his head while a small boy stood on his shoulder, turning a routine play into a memorable moment for the crowd.

Celebrating a Decade of Success

Before the game, the team unveiled a 31‑foot wide “Champions Gate” on the west side of Wrigley, marking the tenth anniversary of the Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory. Owner Tom Ricketts and former manager Joe Maddon joined Rizzo in addressing fans, joined by roughly twenty former players. Maddon and the veterans took the field for a brief ceremony, capped by a ceremonial first pitch from right‑hander Kyle Hendricks.

Rizzo’s Historic 2016 Campaign

Rizzo’s numbers from that championship season remain impressive: a .292 batting average, 32 home runs, and 109 RBIs during the regular season. He added three more homers and ten extra bases in the postseason, helping the Cubs end a 108‑year title drought. His 2016 performance solidified his status as a key figure in one of Chicago’s most celebrated eras.

Legacy and Community Moment

The ceremony not only honored past triumph but also highlighted the growing talent within the organization, represented by players like Busch. Rizzo’s quick reflexes on the play reminded fans of his defensive instincts from his playing days, while the involvement of former teammates underscored the lasting bond among the 2016 champions. The event left fans with both a baseball souvenir and a renewed sense of pride in the Cubs’ storied history.