In a significant development for both Sammy Sosa and the Chicago Cubs, the two have reconciled after a lengthy 17-year estrangement. On Thursday, Sosa issued a heartfelt apology for “mistakes” made during his illustrious baseball career, acknowledging that he occasionally resorted to methods aimed at maintaining his performance levels, particularly in recovering from injuries. While he did not explicitly admit to using performance-enhancing drugs, Sosa reflected on his actions by saying, “I never broke any laws, but in hindsight, I made mistakes and I apologize.”
The 56-year-old former baseball star is famously known for his remarkable record of 609 home runs, ranking ninth on Major League Baseball’s all-time home run list. His tenure with the Cubs, which lasted for 13 years, saw him achieve at least 60 home runs in three different seasons from 1998 to 2001, coinciding with the controversial steroid era in baseball.
Just moments after Sosa’s statement, the Cubs extended an invitation for him to attend their winter fan convention, marking the first time he will participate in such an event since his retirement in 2007. His absence from the Hall of Fame, alongside other notable players like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire, has been largely attributed to their associations with the steroid era. In his final year on the Hall of Fame ballot, Sosa garnered only 18.5% of the necessary votes, far short of the 75% required for induction.
The Cubs’ ownership expressed satisfaction with Sosa’s apology and hinted that it was a necessary step before welcoming him back into the organization. Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts stated, “We appreciate Sammy releasing his statement and for reaching out,” while also emphasizing Sosa’s enduring popularity among fans. He expressed hope for Sosa’s attendance at the 2025 Cubs Convention, saying, “We are all ready to move forward together.”
Sosa himself expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We can’t change the past, but the future is bright,” and reaffirmed his deep ties to the Cubs and their fanbase. His 545 home runs with the Cubs remain the most in the franchise’s history, underscoring his lasting impact on the team.
This reconciliation represents a hopeful chapter for Sosa and the Cubs as they seek to heal old wounds and celebrate their shared history. It serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding legacy in sports and the ongoing conversation about redemption and accountability.
Summary: Sammy Sosa and the Chicago Cubs have reconciled after a long estrangement, following Sosa’s apology for mistakes in his baseball career. Sosa, linked to performance-enhancing drugs, reflected on his actions without admitting to drug use. The Cubs invited him to their winter fan convention, indicating a desire to move forward together. Sosa’s enduring connection to the Cubs and his optimism for the future were highlighted as he looks ahead to reconnecting with fans.