Full Breakdown
Anthony Rizzo Snags Second Home-Run Ball in Wrigley Bleachers
7/19/2026, 10:16:05 PM
The Unusual Catch During a Celebration
On Saturday, Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch opened the scoring with a first-inning solo homer against the Minnesota Twins. The ball landed in the right-field bleachers of Wrigley Field, where former Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo reached behind a concrete wall, picked the ball up, and held it aloft while a small boy perched on his shoulder. The moment occurred as the Cubs honored the 10th anniversary of their 2016 World Series championship, a ceremony that included the dedication of a 31-foot “Champions Gate” arch on the stadium’s west side.
2016 Championship and the Pre-Game Ceremony
The 2016 Cubs ended a 108-year championship drought, with Rizzo contributing 32 homers and finishing fourth in National League MVP voting. He recorded the final out of the World Series at first base and was later celebrated with a pre-game ceremony featuring former teammates, owner Tom Ricketts, and manager Joe Maddon. Rizzo, who retired in September 2023, had previously retrieved a home-run ball in the bleachers during the 2023 season, making this the second such incident.
Official Statements & Responses
Busch described the experience as “mind-blowing,” noting the symbolic link between the current slugger and the former star. Rizzo, wearing his 2016 Game 7 jersey, expressed optimism for future Cubs success, saying he hopes to see several more championships in his lifetime. The ceremony’s speakers highlighted the lasting impact of the 2016 team on Chicago’s fans and the city’s morale.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I thought that was super, just like mind-blowing,” — Michael Busch, Cubs first baseman
- “Just the 2016 team, what they did for this city and the championship that they brought was obviously a big deal,” — Michael Busch
- “I'm hoping that, in my lifetime now, as a Cubs fan, I see this: There's about five or seven more championships before I die up here,” — Anthony Rizzo, former Cubs first baseman
- “So, no pressure.” — Anthony Rizzo
What’s Next
The Cubs will host the Twins again on Sunday, July 19, at Wrigley Field.
