“The Cubs Are Different Now”: Anthony Rizzo Sends Emotional Message After Cubs’ Historic Gold Glove Haul.vc
CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Cubs are currently basking in a wave of end-of-season awards, and a powerful voice from the past has returned to validate the team’s promising future. Anthony Rizzo, the former franchise icon who recently retired and became an honorary team ambassador, delivered an emotional message of pride that resonated deeply with the Cubs fan base.
Appearing at the Cubs training center following the Gold Glove announcements, Rizzo reflected on his tenure and the current team’s success.
“I have worn the Cubs jersey for almost a decade. I have witnessed the most difficult years, the seasons that no one believed in miracles. And today, when I see this generation honored, I am as proud as if I were playing at Wrigley Field again,” Rizzo said, his voice showing emotion.
A Season of Defensive Glory and Rising Stars
The 2025 season has been a period of strong resurgence for the Cubs, marked by both competitive play and significant individual recognition. The team cemented its status as an elite defensive club, tying for the Major League lead with a historic three Gold Glove Awards:
- Pete Crow-Armstrong (Center Field): 1st career Gold Glove.
- Nico Hoerner (Second Base): 2nd career Gold Glove.
- Ian Happ (Left Field): 4th consecutive career Gold Glove.
This defensive prowess is only part of the story. The Cubs were also a highly nominated team, with at least ten players making the finalists list for major categories, including the Silver Slugger Award and Rookie of the Year. Pitcher Cade Horton was named a finalist for the NL Rookie of the Year Award after a brilliant season, carrying on the team’s strong humanitarian culture by publicly announcing a $500,000 donation to the Chicago Children’s Cancer Foundation if he wins the award.
Passing the Torch: From Underdogs to Contenders
For Rizzo, who was a pivotal leader during the team’s 108-year curse-breaking 2016 World Series victory, the awards signify more than just fielding prowess—they represent a fundamental shift in the team’s identity.
“The Cubs are different now,” Rizzo continued. “They’re no longer the underdogs, they’re no longer the ones who stood by and watched others win trophies. This is a generation that dares to dream, dares to fight, and dares to believe that glory is not just a thing of the past in 2016 – it’s now, it’s the future.”
Experts agree that the combination of elite defense from young talents like Crow-Armstrong and veteran presence is ushering the Cubs into a “new golden cycle,” rebuilding the image of a true contender.
Rizzo concluded with a heartfelt reflection on the bond that ties the organization together: “If I were in my prime, I would love to be playing with these kids. They remind me of what it was like to believe in the impossible… I’m proud to call them family. The Cubs are more than just a team – the Cubs are the heart of this city.”
From an icon of the past to a beacon of light for the future, Anthony Rizzo’s message ensures that the “Never Quit” spirit of the Chicago Cubs remains an indelible part of the team’s identity.
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