Sammy Sosa returns to Wrigley as the first-place Cubs, led by Pete Crow-Armstrong, seek a sweep of the Mariners on June 22, 2025. Recap the historic day.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
For the first time in over two decades, Sammy Sosa walked onto the hallowed grounds of Wrigley Field, not as a distant memory, but as a celebrated legend. His long-awaited return this weekend created a wave of pure nostalgic joy, a powerful moment of reconciliation that seemed to energize an already buzzing ballpark. As one chapter of Cubs history found a happy ending, the current chapter continued its thrilling narrative, with the NL Central-leading Cubs aiming for a series sweep of the Seattle Mariners.
Pete Crow-Armstrong is putting up video game numbers, leading the Cubs with 21 home runs and 61 RBIs, ranking sixth in MLB for homers and fourth for RBIs.
The sight of number 21 being honored at the Friendly Confines was something many fans thought they might never see. After a 20-plus-year hiatus, the cheers for Sammy Sosa were deafening and heartfelt. This wasn't just a celebrity appearance; it was a significant, healing moment for a franchise and a fanbase that grew up on his home run heroics. His return closes a long, complicated chapter and rightfully places him back among the Wrigleyville faithful.
While Sosa's era of power was being celebrated, a new generation of sluggers put on a show of their own. Saturday's explosive 10-7 victory was a prime example, with Ian Happ launching two homers and driving in four runs. But the story of the season has been the dynamic duo of Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki, who are tied for the team lead with a staggering 61 RBIs. PCA's 21 home runs put him among the league's elite, proving that the power bat is alive and well on the North Side. Even newcomer Kyle Tucker is fitting right in, batting .283 and providing yet another threat in a relentless lineup.
With the series already secured, the Cubs turn to one of their promising young arms to finish the job. Right-hander Cade Horton (3-1, 3.47 ERA) gets the ball for the 11:20 AM start, looking to continue his impressive season. He'll face Seattle's Emerson Hancock (3-2, 4.48 ERA). A win today would not only complete a statement sweep but also further solidify the Cubs' position atop the NL Central as they continue to look like one of the most complete teams in baseball.
The Cubs' current success isn't a fluke; it's the product of a brilliantly managed organization. Even after dealing a top prospect for superstar Kyle Tucker, the farm system remains one of baseball's best, boasting an incredible seven Top 100 prospects. According to farm director Jason Kanzler, the talent stockpiled at Double-A and Triple-A gives the front office immense flexibility. Whether it's for another blockbuster trade at the deadline or for reinforcing the big-league roster down the stretch, the Cubs are loaded for both now and the future.
This weekend was a powerful reminder of what it means to be a Cubs fan. It was a bridge from a legendary, complicated past to an incredibly bright present and an even more promising future. With a franchise icon back in the fold, a dominant team on the field, and a war chest of prospects ready for what's next, the vibes in Wrigleyville are immaculate. Now, let's watch Cade Horton go finish this sweep.
