Anthony Rizzo: MLB’s Next Superstar | NBC Sports

NEW YORK, September 26, 2024

NBC Taps Anthony rizzo as Lead MLB Analyst for 2026 Return to Baseball

Former All-Star Anthony Rizzo is set to become a central figure in NBC’s baseball coverage when the network brings MLB back to its programming lineup in 2026.

• NBC will broadcast MLB games starting in 2026, including Sunday Night Baseball adn the Wild Card Round.
• Anthony Rizzo, recently retired from a 14-season MLB career, will serve as the lead studio analyst.
• Clayton Kershaw and Joey Votto are also expected to contribute to NBC’s studio coverage.
• Bob Costas will anchor the studio show.

Get ready for a new voice in the booth. NBC is poised to re-enter the world of major League Baseball broadcasting in 2026, and they’ve already begun assembling their on-air team. According to reports from Thursday, former MLB star Anthony Rizzo has been selected as the lead MLB studio analyst for the network. This marks NBC’s return to baseball coverage after a 24-year hiatus,since 2000.

Rizzo’s Journey to the Broadcast Booth

Rizzo, 36, officially hung up his cleats last september after a distinguished 14-year career. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2007, the Florida native spent four years in their minor league system before a trade sent him to the san Diego Padres. He made his major league debut wiht the Padres in 2011 before being traded to the Chicago Cubs the following year.

What makes Anthony Rizzo a compelling choice for a broadcasting role? His 10 seasons with the cubs, spanning 1,305 games from 2012-2021, cemented his status as a fan favorite and a key player in the team’s historic 2016 World Series championship run.During his time in Chicago,Rizzo earned three consecutive All-Star selections,four Gold Glove awards,and a Silver Slugger Award.

Did you know? – Anthony Rizzo was a childhood cancer survivor, diagnosed with hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008.He has been a vocal advocate for cancer awareness and research throughout his career.

Beyond the Cubs: A Yankee and Now a Broadcaster

While Rizzo also spent 3.5 seasons with the New York Yankees, reaching the World Series, his legacy remains strongly tied to his time with the Cubs. He consistently demonstrated an ability to connect with the media, a skill that will undoubtedly translate well to his new role at NBC.

NBC’s commitment extends beyond Sunday night Baseball and the Wild Card Round, with plans to feature more prime-time games on its streaming service, Peacock, and NBC Sports Network. Bob Costas will lead the studio team, and Clayton Kershaw is reportedly close to a deal to contribute as an analyst, though his role is expected to be limited to a few weeks alongside Costas.

Pro tip – Former players transitioning to broadcasting often succeed by offering unique insights into the game. Rizzo’s experience will be valuable for explaining in-game strategy.

With a three-year deal in place with MLB, NBC is clearly investing in its baseball coverage, and Rizzo is positioned to be a central figure in that effort. His personality and previous experience interacting with the media suggest he’ll be a natural in front of the camera. The deal signifies a significant shift in the MLB broadcasting landscape, bringing baseball back to a major network after a long absence.

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