Anthony Rizzo officially hung up his cleats on September 10, and while much of baseball is celebrating a decorated career, the San Diego Padres can’t help but feel that familiar sting. For Cubs and Yankees fans, it’s a day of reflection and gratitude for a franchise cornerstone. For Friars fans, it’s another reminder of one of the most lopsided trades in team history.
Rizzo spent only one season in San Diego before the front office decided to move on. Slashing only .141/.281/.242 in 49 games. In January 2012, the Padres dealt Rizzo and pitcher Zach Cates to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Andrew Cashner and Kyung-Min Na.