Anthony Rizzo

Anthony Rizzo is a renowned American professional baseball player, best known for his contributions as a first baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB). With an impressive career spanning over a decade, Rizzo has played for teams like the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and New York Yankees. His exceptional defensive skills, powerful hitting, and leadership have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the sport.

Early Life and Education

Anthony Vincent Rizzo was born on August 8, 1989, in Parkland, Florida, to parents John and Lori Rizzo. He has an older brother, John, who played as a lineman for the Florida Atlantic University football team. Growing up in a close-knit family with Italian roots tracing back to the Sicilian town of Ciminna, Rizzo developed a passion for baseball at an early age.

Rizzo attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, where he excelled as a standout on the school’s baseball team. His impressive performance on the field caught the attention of major league scouts, leading to his selection by the Boston Red Sox in the sixth round of the 2007 Major League Baseball (MLB) draft. Opting to pursue a professional baseball career, Rizzo signed with the Red Sox, forgoing his commitment to Florida Atlantic University.

Personal Life

In April 2008, at the age of 18, Rizzo faced a life-altering challenge when he was diagnosed with limited-state classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Undergoing six months of chemotherapy, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. On September 2, 2008, Rizzo received the uplifting news that he was in remission, and by November 18 of the same year, doctors declared him cancer-free. This experience profoundly influenced his perspective on life and his commitment to giving back to the community.

Rizzo’s personal life took a joyous turn when he met Emily Vakos during the Chicago Cubs’ spring training in Arizona in 2016. The couple’s relationship blossomed, leading to their engagement on June 1, 2017, and they were married on December 29, 2018. In January 2025, Rizzo and Emily announced they were expecting their first child, with a due date in June 2025. The couple resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and are known for their philanthropic endeavors and active involvement in charitable activities.

Family

Family has always been a cornerstone in Rizzo’s life. His parents, John and Lori, along with his brother, John, have been steadfast supporters throughout his career. The Rizzo family’s Italian heritage plays a significant role in their traditions and values. Beyond his immediate family, Rizzo maintains close ties with his extended family in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. The town holds special significance, as it is home to numerous Rizzo relatives who have been unwavering in their support. A testament to this bond is the Lyndhurst Pastry Shop’s tribute to Rizzo, naming their chocolate and vanilla “Yum-Yum” ice cream after him, celebrating his achievements and connection to the community.

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Career

Early Professional Years

Rizzo began his professional baseball journey in the Red Sox organization, playing for minor league teams such as the Gulf Coast League Red Sox, Greenville Drive, Salem Red Sox, and Portland Sea Dogs. His promising performance led to a trade to the San Diego Padres in December 2010 as part of a deal for All-Star first baseman Adrián González. Rizzo made his MLB debut with the Padres on June 9, 2011. Despite high expectations, he faced challenges, finishing his rookie season with a .141 batting average.

Chicago Cubs (2012–2021)

In January 2012, Rizzo was traded to the Chicago Cubs, a move that would become a defining chapter in his career. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup, earning three All-Star selections from 2014 to 2016. Rizzo’s leadership and consistent performance were instrumental in the Cubs’ historic 2016 season, culminating in the franchise’s first World Series title in 108 years. During his tenure with the Cubs, he garnered multiple accolades, including four Gold Glove Awards and a Silver Slugger Award.

New York Yankees (2021–Present)

On July 29, 2021, Rizzo was traded to the New York Yankees, where he made an immediate impact by hitting home runs in each of his first two games. Recognizing his value, the Yankees signed him to a two-year contract in March 2022. Rizzo continued to showcase his offensive prowess, achieving a three-home-run game against the Baltimore Orioles on April 26, 2022. Throughout the 2022 postseason, he maintained a .276 batting average, contributing significantly to the team’s efforts. In November 2022, Rizzo exercised an opt-out clause but subsequently re-signed with the Yankees on a two-year, $40 million contract, solidifying his role as a key player for the team.

Philanthropy

Inspired by his personal battle with cancer, Rizzo founded the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation in 2012. The non-profit organization is dedicated to raising funds for cancer research and providing support to families affected by the disease. Over the years, the foundation has made substantial contributions, including a $3.5 million donation to the Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago in 2017. Rizzo’s commitment to philanthropy has been recognized with several awards, notably the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 2017, honoring his positive impact both on and off the field.

Recent Developments

As of February 2025, Rizzo remains a free agent, with Spring Training already underway. Despite his impressive track record and leadership qualities, his recent performance and injury history have left him without a team. The Yankees declined his player option at the start of the offseason, and he remains available on the open market. Rizzo has expressed his desire to continue his playing career, but his declining numbers and frequent injuries have made teams hesitant to sign him. In January 2025, Rizzo and his wife, Emily, announced they were expecting their first child in June 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in their personal lives.

Baseball Career Highlights

Rizzo began his MLB career with the San Diego Padres in 2011 but gained prominence after being traded to the Chicago Cubs in 2012. He became a cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup, playing a crucial role in their historic 2016 World Series win, which ended the team’s 108-year championship drought. In 2021, Rizzo was traded to the New York Yankees, where he continues to be a key player.

Latest News (2025)

Recently, Anthony Rizzo made headlines after hitting a walk-off home run against the Boston Red Sox, securing a crucial win for the New York Yankees. His performance in the 2025 MLB season has been remarkable, as he continues to showcase his offensive and defensive skills, making him a valuable asset to the Yankees.

Height and Physical Appearance

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) and weighing around 240 lbs (108 kg), Anthony Rizzo has a strong and athletic build, ideal for his role as a first baseman. His physique contributes to his powerful swings and agility on the field. He is known for his clean-cut appearance, often sporting short hair and a well-groomed beard.

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Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Anthony Rizzo’s net worth is estimated to be around $70 million. His wealth primarily comes from his MLB contracts, endorsement deals, and investments. Over the years, he has signed lucrative deals with brands like Nike and Rawlings, further boosting his financial status. His philanthropic efforts, including the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, also demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community.