Sammy Sosa returned to the Chicago Cubs’ dugout on Tuesday for the first time in 21 years, when the team met the Arizona Diamondbacks in a Cactus League game.
The team has had a rocky history with the former slugger, who reignited national interest in baseball in 1998 with a home run race against Mark McGwire. Sosa blasted 66 home runs that summer, beating Roger Maris’ single-season home run record (McGwire hit 70).
However, rumors of steroid use and a corked bat dispute have marred Sosa’s potential Hall of Fame reputation. He appeared to have reconciled with the team throughout the summer and appeared relieved to be back in the dugout on Tuesday.
“I’m happy to see everyone,” he stated during the game broadcast. “Glad to be here. I would also like to thank the Ricketts family for bringing me here. Jed Hoyer, the [General Manager], and Craig Counsell have been excellent to me.”
Sosa claimed that he’s loved seeing the current Cubs players make their cuts and has even offered tips, claiming to be “an expert in that.”
Sosa concluded his career with 609 home runs, including 545 during his 13 seasons with the Cubs. He is ninth on MLB’s all-time home run list.
Sammy Sosa’s statement opened the door to a renewed relationship with the Cubs
According to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, Sosa returned to the Cubs in December after issuing an apology, which the team “hinted” was required.
“I left it all on the field for the Cubs and their fans because I wanted to win and make them happy,” Sosa said in his statement. “I liked seeing the Wrigley fans in the Right Field Bleachers at every home game. I understand why some players from my period do not always receive the accolades that their statistics merit. There were moments when I did anything I could to heal from ailments in order to maintain my strength and performance across 162 games. I never breached the law, but in retrospect, I made mistakes and apologize.
Ricketts answered with his own statement, stating that the organization welcomes Sosa’s return.
“We appreciate Sammy’s statement and outreach,” the statement stated. “No one tried more or wanted to win more. Nobody is perfect, but we never doubted his dedication to the game and the Cubs.
“It would be an understatement to say Sammy is a fan favorite. We intend to invite him to the 2025 Cubs convention, and despite the short notice, we hope he will be able to attend. We are all prepared to move on together.”
