Early Life and Education of Anthony Rizzo: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Anthony Rizzo. From birth to education, explore key events.

Anthony Rizzo is a professional baseball first baseman who has played for the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and New York Yankees in MLB. He is currently a free agent.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

August 8, 1989: Anthony Rizzo's Birth

On August 8, 1989, Anthony Vincent Rizzo, a professional baseball first baseman, was born.

Others born on this day/year

April 2008: Diagnosis with Hodgkin Lymphoma

In April 2008, Anthony Rizzo was diagnosed with limited state classical Hodgkin lymphoma and underwent chemotherapy for six months.

September 2, 2008: In Remission

On September 2, 2008, Anthony Rizzo's doctor informed him that he was in remission from Hodgkin's lymphoma, although he still had six weeks of treatment and follow-up testing to complete.

2012: Founding of the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation

In 2012, the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation was founded as a non-profit organization to benefit cancer research and families fighting the disease.

May 15, 2015: 3rd Annual Cook-Off For Cancer

On May 15, 2015, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted its 3rd Annual Cook-Off For Cancer and raised more than $270,000.

November 15, 2015: 4th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer

On November 15, 2015, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted its 4th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer and raised more than $200,000 for pediatric cancer research and support.

June 2, 2016: 4th Annual Cook-Off For Cancer

On June 2, 2016, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted its 4th Annual Cook-Off For Cancer and raised more than $630,000.

December 11, 2016: 5th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer and Anthony Rizzo Day

On December 11, 2016, The Anthony Rizzo Foundation's 5th annual Walk-Off for Cancer raised more than $500,000. Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine proclaimed the day as Anthony Rizzo Day in Broward County, and Rizzo's high school retired his jersey.

June 1, 2017: Engagement to Emily Vakos

On June 1, 2017, Anthony Rizzo proposed to his girlfriend, Emily Vakos.

December 3, 2017: 6th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer

On December 3, 2017, Anthony Rizzo and his foundation hosted its 6th annual Walk-Off for Cancer and raised $960,000 for families battling cancer, benefitting Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and providing grants to families.

February 15, 2018: Speech at Parkland Vigil and Donation

On February 15, 2018, Anthony Rizzo delivered an emotional speech at the vigil for the school shooting victims in Parkland, Florida. He met with survivors and helped donate $305,000 to the National Compassion Fund.

December 2, 2018: 7th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer

On December 2, 2018, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted the 7th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer, raising $1.1 million for the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and families battling cancer.

December 29, 2018: Marriage to Emily Vakos

On December 29, 2018, Anthony Rizzo married Emily Vakos, with teammate Kris Bryant serving as one of the groomsmen.

May 27, 2019: 7th Annual Cook-Off For Cancer

On May 27, 2019, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted its 7th Annual Cook-Off For Cancer and raised $1.8 million for cancer patients and their families.

November 24, 2019: 8th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer

On November 24, 2019, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation hosted its 8th Annual Walk-Off for Cancer and raised more than $1.35 million.

January 16, 2020: 6th Annual Laugh-Off for Cancer

On January 16, 2020, The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation raised close to $500,000 to help families battling cancer during its 6th Annual Laugh-Off for Cancer.

February 2020: $150,000 Donation to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School

In February 2020, Anthony Rizzo donated $150,000 to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to help pay for the school's lights for its baseball and softball fields. His high school unveiled the new baseball field which will be known as Anthony Rizzo Field.