Anthony Rizzo Jr.: 5 Surprising Facts About The Newest Member Of The Rizzo Family
The Anthony Rizzo family has officially grown! As of late December 2025, the legendary former Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees first baseman, Anthony Rizzo, and his wife, Emily Vakos, are celebrating the arrival of their first child, a baby boy. The exciting news, which began with a charming social media announcement in January 2025, culminated with the birth of their son, Anthony Rizzo Jr., marking a major new chapter for the beloved baseball star and his family.
The journey to parenthood was a highly anticipated event for fans of the three-time All-Star. The couple, known for their strong partnership and philanthropic efforts, have embraced this new role, with Anthony Jr. quickly becoming the center of attention in their world. This article dives into the complete story, from their personal biographies to the public's first glimpse of the newest "Baby Rizzo."
Anthony Rizzo and Emily Vakos: A Complete Family Profile
The foundation of the growing Rizzo family lies in the partnership between Anthony and Emily, a couple whose lives blend professional sports excellence with dedication to health and philanthropy.
Anthony Vincent Rizzo Biography
- Full Name: Anthony Vincent Rizzo
- Nickname: Tony
- Date of Birth: August 8, 1989
- Place of Birth: Parkland, Florida
- Draft: 2007, Boston Red Sox, Round 6, Overall Pick 204
- MLB Debut: June 9, 2011
- Primary Teams: Chicago Cubs (2012–2021), New York Yankees (2021–2024)
- Career Highlights: 3x MLB All-Star, 4x Gold Glove Award, 1x Platinum Glove Award, 2016 World Series Champion (Chicago Cubs)
- Philanthropy: Founder of the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, dedicated to raising money for cancer research and providing support to children and families fighting the disease.
Emily Vakos Biography
- Full Name: Emily Vakos
- Date of Birth: January 9, 1994
- Place of Birth: Dallas, Texas, U.S.A.
- Parents: Mark Vakos and Stephanie Sudwischer
- Education: Graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in nutrition and dietetics.
- Profession: Nutritionist, Health and Wellness Professional, and Real Estate Broker based in Chicago, Illinois.
- Relationship: Met Anthony Rizzo during her time as a nutritionist for the Chicago Cubs.
- Marriage: The couple married in a beautiful ceremony in December 2018 in Parkland, Florida.
The Highly Anticipated Arrival of Anthony Rizzo Jr.
The announcement of their first pregnancy was one of the most heartwarming moments for the baseball community in early 2025. The couple shared the news on social media in January, posting charming photos that included a sonogram and a tiny onesie with the words "Baby Rizzo" and the expected due date: "June 2025."
The baseball world, from the Chicago Cubs faithful to New York Yankees fans, immediately flooded their posts with congratulations. This was a particularly poignant moment for Anthony Rizzo, whose own battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma as a minor league player has fueled his passion for his family and the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation.
The Birth and Name Confirmation
While the Rizzos kept the exact birth date private, it is understood that their baby boy arrived safely in the summer of 2025, right around the expected June due date. Public sightings and reports later confirmed the baby’s gender and name. The baby boy is named Anthony Jr., carrying on the family name of Anthony Vincent Rizzo.
The name choice, Anthony Jr., is a classic nod to tradition and a clear sign of the deep family values held by the Rizzos. The confirmation of the baby's name came as Anthony Rizzo was seen with his wife, Emily Vakos, and their newborn son, Anthony Jr., at a game in September 2025.
How Fatherhood Impacts Rizzo's Legacy and Philanthropy
Anthony Rizzo’s life has always been defined by resilience, especially his recovery from cancer. The birth of Anthony Jr. adds a profound new layer to his personal mission and his work with the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation. The foundation is dedicated to providing support to children and families battling cancer, a cause that now resonates even more deeply as a new father.
A Deeper Commitment to the Foundation
The foundation’s annual events, such as the "Walk-Off for Cancer" in Parkland, Florida, and various grants for pediatric cancer research, are expected to take on new meaning. With a son of his own, Rizzo's commitment to ensuring a brighter future for all children, especially those fighting for their lives, is amplified. The foundation's Hope 44 Fund continues to be a major entity in the fight against pediatric cancer.
The number 44, Rizzo’s jersey number, is a symbol of hope for countless families. The arrival of Anthony Jr. ensures that the Rizzo legacy of compassion, strength, and community support will be passed down for generations. The family's public visibility, whether at Yankee Stadium or Wrigley Field, will now include their baby boy, a new symbol of hope and joy.
The Future of the Rizzo Family
As Anthony Rizzo transitions into the next phase of his career, potentially as a free agent or in a post-playing role, his focus on family remains paramount. The couple resides in Chicago, Illinois, and their commitment to the community there is unwavering. Emily Vakos, with her background in health and wellness, is perfectly positioned to raise Anthony Jr. with a focus on a healthy, strong future.
The Rizzos are a true power couple, balancing the demands of professional life—whether it’s Anthony’s baseball career or Emily’s real estate and nutrition work—with their shared dedication to philanthropy and now, parenthood. The arrival of Anthony Jr. is not just a personal milestone; it’s a moment of collective celebration for everyone who has followed the inspiring journey of this beloved sports figure and his wife.
The family continues to share moments of their new life, offering glimpses of their happiness while maintaining a respectful level of privacy for their newborn son. Fans eagerly await more updates, but for now, the story of Anthony Rizzo Jr. is a beautiful testament to love, perseverance, and the start of a wonderful new family legacy.
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