Early Life and Education of Anthony Rizzo: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 19, 2026

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

Anthony Rizzo is a prominent Major League Baseball first baseman known for his leadership and consistent performance. After being drafted by the Boston Red Sox, he gained significant recognition during his long tenure with the Chicago Cubs, where he played a pivotal role in the team's historic 2016 World Series championship. A three-time All-Star, Rizzo is widely respected for his defensive prowess, having earned multiple Gold Glove Awards, and his offensive contributions as a reliable power hitter. Beyond his on-field achievements, he is highly regarded for his charitable work through the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, which supports families battling cancer, a cause close to him following his own successful recovery from Hodgkin lymphoma early in his career. Currently playing for the New York Yankees, Rizzo remains one of the most recognizable and respected figures in professional baseball.

Sections (4)

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

August 8, 1989: Birth of Anthony Rizzo

Anthony Vincent Rizzo was born on August 8, 1989, marking the beginning of the life of the future professional baseball first baseman.

Others born on this day/year

2007: Red Sox Draft Selection and Professional Debut

In 2007, the Boston Red Sox selected Anthony Rizzo in the sixth round of the MLB draft out of high school. He signed with the team for a $325,000 bonus and began his professional minor league career with the Gulf Coast League Red Sox at age 17.

December 6, 2010: Trade to the San Diego Padres

On December 6, 2010, Anthony Rizzo was traded by the Boston Red Sox to the San Diego Padres alongside Casey Kelly, Reymond Fuentes, and Eric Patterson in exchange for first baseman Adrián González.

December 2011: Trade Impacts Roster Status

In December 2011, the San Diego Padres acquired Yonder Alonso in a trade for Mat Latos, which moved Alonso ahead of Rizzo on the team's first base depth chart.

January 6, 2012: Anthony Rizzo Traded to Chicago Cubs

On January 6, 2012, the San Diego Padres traded Anthony Rizzo and pitcher Zach Cates to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for pitcher Andrew Cashner and outfielder Kyung-Min Na in a transaction orchestrated by Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer.

July 29, 2021: Trade to the New York Yankees

On July 29, 2021, Anthony Rizzo was traded from the Chicago Cubs to the New York Yankees in a deal that also included cash considerations in exchange for prospects Kevin Alcántara and Alexander Vizcaíno.

2021: Trade to the New York Yankees

In 2021, after spending a decade with the Chicago Cubs, Anthony Rizzo was traded to the New York Yankees.

2021: Final Season of Contract with the Chicago Cubs

In 2021, the Chicago Cubs exercised the final year of Anthony Rizzo's seven-year contract, resulting in a salary payment of $16.5 million for that season.