Anthony Rizzo, one of the most recognized names in baseball over the past decade, could come out of retirement to play again. Although his Major League Baseball career appears to be over, the former New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs first baseman is considering an option that evokes nostalgia and anticipation: representing Italy again in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Anthony Rizzo and a possible last international adventure
The general manager of the Italian national team, Ned Colletti, confirmed that there have already been talks with Rizzo to integrate him into the roster for the next World Baseball Classic. In the words of the former Dodgers executive: “Even if it’s as a pinch hitter or something like that, I’d love to have him“.
Rizzo, 36, has Italian roots through his grandparents, who are from Ciminna, Sicily, which allowed him to represent Italy in the 2013 World Classic. That participation was special, as he helped the team reach the second round before falling to Puerto Rico.
Anthony Rizzo’s previous experience with Team Italy
In the 2013 tournament, Anthony Rizzo recorded four hits and five walks in five games, providing leadership and experience on a roster that combined European talent and U.S.-trained players. That emotional connection with Italy is one of the factors that keeps the door open for a return.
Anthony Rizzo’s numbers
Rizzo played his last Major League game in 2024 with the Yankees, a season in which he faced multiple injuries. In 92 games, he posted a .228/.301/.335 slash line with eight home runs and 35 RBIs. Despite the physical ailments, he returned for the playoffs and his last game was the decisive Game 5 of the World Series against the Dodgers
After a winter with little interest from other teams, the Cubs, where he enjoyed his best years, paid tribute to him at Wrigley Field in September, a ceremony that coincided with his official retirement.
During his time with the Cubs, Rizzo was a three-time All-Star, won four Gold Gloves and was a key part of the historic 2016 championship, which broke a 108-year World Series drought for the franchise. In Chicago, he posted solid numbers: a .272 average, 242 home runs and 784 RBIs.
Will Rizzo be at the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Although his retirement seems definitive in MLB, Colletti was clear in pointing out that the invitation is still open. “You have to prepare, you can’t just show up,” he said. The final decision will depend on Rizzo and his desire to close his career with one last international chapter.
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