(670 The Score) After the Cubs rallied to an exciting 8-5 win against the Cardinals on Friday afternoon, first baseman and team leader Anthony Rizzo explained his decision to not receive the COVID-19 vaccine yet.
That’s been a hot topic, as the Cubs are one of eight MLB teams that haven’t reached the key 85% vaccination threshold, which would ease restrictions and also subject fewer players to health protocols in the event they’re exposed.
“With everything that’s gone on over the last year-plus, it’s been amazing for doctors, the science behind the vaccine to get it to so many people so fast,” Rizzo said. “It’s really been incredible, and our doctors have been incredible with educating us and giving us all the information we need and all our worries and whatnot. In our clubhouse, guys have had it and guys don’t have it. We respect everyone’s decision. For me, it’s just one of those things that I’m definitely not against getting it. It’s just, I think, I’m talking to my doctors and taking some more time to see the data on all of it. There’s some personal, definitely personal reasons as well. It’s just one of those things where as we continue to get more data, we’ll continue to get more educated on it. I love that everyone gets vaccinated. I’m for it. I think it’s really amazing to see everyone back in the stands.”
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Rizzo was then asked if he’s perhaps inching closer to changing his decision and getting the vaccine.
“The communication between us and the doctors, it’s never-ending,” Rizzo said. “They have everything for us, and they’re so up front. It’s like family here. We’ll continue to talk and just continue to make those decisions as we move forward. But as of right now, like I said for personal reasons – it’s obviously not an easy decision to make – but I think it’s best for me and my family right now.”
Rizzo also addressed how his role as a leader of the Cubs could have an impact on teammates choosing to not get vaccinated.
“Big time, big time,” Rizzo said of whether that weighed on him. “I love my teammates. I love this franchise, and I do everything I can to win here. But with this stuff, this is bigger than baseball. This is a life decision.
“Like I said, it weighed hard. It’s a decision I made and I stand with. Obviously, there’s people that are going to hate me and think I’m disgusting. And there’s going to be people that side with me. It’s out in the open. I try to keep everything personal, but as far as being a leader on this team, go out there every day and play your best baseball. Don’t be an idiot off the field. Just continue to be smart and be aware of everything going on.”
And is he concerned about fan reaction?
“Whenever you come out with any decision that’s a big topic, it’s not easy one way or the other,” Rizzo said. “This is, rightfully so, a very big topic. There’s a lot of lives that are being saved with this vaccine. There’s a lot of people that are getting back to their normal life, and that’s amazing. That’s what we want. It’s amazing to see everyone here in the stands drinking beer and having fun and enjoying their life again. Whatever that takes for people to get to that threshold, I’m all for it.”