Chicago Cubs Week in Review: Busch Homers to Rizzo and 2016 World Series Anniversary Celebrations

Michael Busch's Magic Moment at Wrigley Field

During the bottom of the first inning of the July 18 matchup between the Chicago Cubs and the Minnesota Twins, Cubs infielder Michael Busch stepped to the plate with two outs and a 0-1 count. He launched a four-seam fastball from Twins pitcher Bradley — clocked at 96.2 mph — sending it 401 feet into the right-field bleachers with a 28-degree launch angle and a 101.6 mph exit velocity.

But what made this home run unforgettable was where it landed: directly in the vicinity of Anthony Rizzo and his son, seated in the right-field bleachers. Rizzo, the beloved former Cubs first baseman who was a cornerstone of the 2016 championship team, caught the ball in a moment that felt scripted for Hollywood. As CubsHQ's Tony Crumpton wrote, *"You couldn't script it any better."*

This viral moment — captured on video and shared widely — underscores the unique magic of Wrigley Field, where past and present collide in the most poetic ways. Watch the replay on MLB.com.

Celebrating a Decade Since the Curse Was Broken

Meanwhile, the Cubs organization is commemorating the 10-year anniversary of their 2016 World Series victory — a championship that ended a 108-year drought and remains one of the most celebrated moments in baseball history.

Joe Maddon's Return

Former manager Joe Maddon, now 72, has returned to Chicago for the celebrations. In a recent interview with The Athletic's Jon Greenberg, Maddon reflected on his tenure with the Cubs, which spanned from 2015 to 2019.

*"It is the proverbial blink of an eye,"* Maddon said. *"It's like it did happen yesterday. It's very fresh. You can see it, smell it, taste it. You remember what you were doing there."*

Maddon, who was introduced as the Cubs' new manager at a Wrigleyville bar in 2014, promised fans "a shot and a beer" and delivered the ultimate prize. Despite not receiving a contract extension — he was let go just three years after winning it all — Maddon remains grateful.

*"I'm so fortunate to have had the opportunity to manage there. The Chicago Cubs are the big leagues of the big league,"* he said.

Anniversary Festivities

The celebration includes multiple events throughout the week:

Maddon's Legacy

Maddon's approach — captured in his signature phrases like *"Never let the pressure exceed the pleasure"* and *"Try not to suck"* — created a unique clubhouse culture that helped the Cubs overcome a 3-1 deficit in the World Series. While he has become critical of how analytics have changed the game, reducing the manager's autonomy, his impact on Chicago sports history remains undeniable.

*"We're going to be bigger and better in 10 years, are you kidding me?"* Maddon said about the team's legacy. *"This is almost like Zeus and stuff."*

From his charity work to his enduring connection with fans who stop him on the street, Maddon's place in Cubs history is secure.

Who is Michael Busch and how far did his home run travel?

Michael Busch is a Chicago Cubs infielder who hit his 12th home run of the 2026 season. The ball traveled 401 feet with an exit velocity of 101.6 mph and a 28-degree launch angle. See the full video on MLB.com

What events are taking place for the 2016 World Series 10-year anniversary?

The celebrations include a live podcast at the Chicago Theatre with Anthony Rizzo and David Ross, the unveiling of "Champions Gate" at Gallagher Way near Wrigley Field, and Joe Maddon's "Thanksmas" charity event on Sunday. Full coverage from The Athletic

What is Joe Maddon doing now?

At 72, Maddon is not looking for another baseball job. He lives on a golf course, tends to his land, plants tomatoes and flowers, and manages his new foundation "Two Burnt Feet." He returns to Chicago for special events and charity work.

Why was Joe Maddon let go after winning the World Series?

Despite reaching the playoffs in four of his five seasons and winning the World Series in 2016, Maddon did not receive a contract extension. Friction between Maddon and the front office, combined with declining wins in his final seasons, led to the Cubs moving in a different direction after the 2019 season.

These stories remind us why baseball is more than just a game. Do you remember where you were when the Cubs won the 2016 World Series? And what do you think of Michael Busch's incredible homer finding its way to Anthony Rizzo? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!

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*Do you think the Cubs can recapture the magic of 2016? Let us know!*