Anthony Rizzo's emotional return to Wrigley Field as a Yankee

CHICAGO – Anthony Rizzo admitted he was “trying to hold it together,’’ during an emotional salute by Cubs fans at Wrigley Field.

“This is a special place,’’ said Rizzo, and his two lengthy ovations, and heartfelt video tribute are moments “I’ll remember forever.’’

A 10-year Cub and a key member of their Forever world championship team of 2016, Rizzo hadn’t been back to Wrigley as a visiting player until Friday afternoon.

Rizzo went 1-for-3 with a single and a walk, and some typically sharp first base defense in the Yankees’ 3-0 win.

Before his first at-bat, Rizzo received the crowd’s embrace again with another warm reception. Stepping out of the batter’s box, Rizzo extended his helmet and waved in appreciation.

Just off the injured list after a lengthy rehab from a fracture right forearm, Rizzo’s baseball future is uncertain beyond this year.

The Yankees hold a club option for $17 million in 2025, with a $6 million buyout. And they could be looking to save every possible dollar to spend on Juan Soto.

Rizzo’s wife and parents were on the field during the pregame ceremony, and Rizzo said he and his wife Emily “love it here’’ in Chicago.

“We’ve made a lot of lifelong friendships here. We see ourselves maybe living here again,’’ Rizzo said. “But as far as playing, I really hope to retire a Yankee.

“I love playing on the Yankees, I love the opportunity I’ve had, especially with the guys I’m alongside of every single day.

“But who knows what the future is? I never thought I’d be a Yankee ; I definitely didn’t think I was going to be traded’’ at the 2021 MLB trade deadline.

“So, when it happened, it was definitely a shock, just processing the emotions.’’

At the time, Rizzo thought he might be going to the Boston Red Sox. But being trade to the Yankees “has definitely helped me grow, as a leader, as person.’’

In breaking a 108-year World Series title drought on the near North side of Chicago, “we turned a franchise from lovable losers to expected winners,’’ said Rizzo.

“I know in New York, the expectation is to win every day and that brings the best out of me.’’

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Anthony Rizzo's emotional return to Wrigley Field as a Yankee