Rizzo wants to retire as a Yankee despite love for Chicago

Anthony Rizzo is at peace with where his career has taken him.

Ahead of his long-awaited return to Chicago's Wrigley Field on Friday, the veteran first baseman expressed a desire to keep playing in New York.

"I really hope to retire as a Yankee," he said, according to MLB.com's Bryan Hoch.

Rizzo played 10 seasons with the Cubs before being traded to the Yankees in 2021. He made three NL All-Star teams with Chicago and helped the franchise snap its 108-year World Series drought in 2016.

While Rizzo acknowledged he will always have love for the Windy City, he believes he's where he was meant to be.

"As much as we love Chicago, I think where we ended up was perfect for us," he told Schuyler Dixon of The Associated Press.

The 34-year-old has battled inconsistency during his Yankees tenure. After posting an .817 OPS in 2022, he has slumped to a disappointing .224/.286/.343 line in a second straight injury-riddled campaign.

Rizzo could become a free agent this offseason if New York declines his $17-million option.