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Chicago Cubs Announce Decision On Legendary Outfielder Sammy Sosa

Originally posted on The Spun | By Kameron Duncan | Last updated Dec 19, 2024 2:52 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs have held legendary slugger Sammy Sosa at arms length for several years, as the team has remained adamant in its stance to not welcome Sosa to Wrigley Field before he apologizes for his past actions.

On Thursday, Sosa publicly issued that apology. The former star didn't mention his performance-enhancing drug scandal, but apologized for "mistakes" made during his time with the team.

"There were times I did whatever I could to recover from injuries in an effort to keep my strength up to perform over 162 games. I never broke any laws but in hindsight, I made mistakes and I apologize."

Later in the day, the Cubs issued a statement, holding up their end of the ultimatum by inviting Sosa back for the upcoming Cubs Convention next month.

The event gives fans the opportunity to meet players, team legends and front office members for autographs and special team-related panels.

"We appreciate Sammy releasing his statement and for reaching out. No one played harder or wanted to win more. Nobody’s perfect but we never doubted his passion for the game and the Cubs," said team chairman Tom Ricketts.

Ricketts referred to Sosa as a "fan favorite" and said that "we are all ready to move forward together."

ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 7: Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals and Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs joke before the game at Busch Stadium on September 7, 1998 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images) The Sporting News/Getty Images

Sosa played 13 seasons in Chicago, hitting 545 home runs for the team during that span. He hit 66 of those home runs in 1998, setting a new franchise record while also winning the National League MVP award. He remains the only player in the Cubs' storied history to hit 60 home runs in three different seasons.

Sosa's battle with Mark McGwire for the major league home run record in 1998 is credited with sparking interest in the game for a new generation. Some say the Sosa/McGwire battle "saved the sport" following the 1994 strike and cancellation of the World Series.

Sosa spent the majority of his career with the Cubs, but also played for the Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles and Texas Rangers. In addition to the MVP award he earned, Sosa was also a seven-time All-Star and a six-time Silver Slugger.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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