Image Source: NBC 5 Chicago
Anthony Rizzo is part of the national spotlight surrounding Sunday night’s Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds series finale, but the matchup will begin later than expected after rain moved through the area.
The game was originally scheduled for a 6:20 p.m. start. However, officials delayed first pitch because of wet weather, and the contest will not begin before 6:45 p.m. The postponement gives players additional time to wait out the conditions while crews work to prepare the field.
Breaking Update: Anthony Rizzo Joins Cubs-Reds Broadcast
Rizzo is scheduled to be part of the NBC Chicago broadcast team for the series finale. The former Cubs star will appear alongside Jason Benetti, Jeff Brantley, Ahmed Fareed and Joey Votto as the network presents the game as part of NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball coverage.
For Cubs fans, Rizzo’s presence adds an especially familiar voice to an important matchup. During his years in Chicago, he became one of the most recognizable players in the organization and a central figure in the team’s modern history. His inclusion in the broadcast team is expected to bring added perspective for viewers following the North Siders.
Rain Forces Critical Delay at the Ballpark
The weather delay affects both teams as they prepare for the final meeting of the series. Although the delay is currently limited to the start time, fans should remain alert for additional updates if rain continues or field conditions require more work.
- Original scheduled first pitch: 6:20 p.m.
- Earliest expected start: 6:45 p.m.
- Teams: Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds
- Broadcast: NBC Chicago
- Broadcast team: Jason Benetti, Jeff Brantley, Anthony Rizzo, Ahmed Fareed and Joey Votto
A delayed start can affect the rhythm of a baseball game, particularly for pitchers and position players following their normal pregame routines. It can also create challenges for fans traveling to the ballpark, especially those trying to arrive before the first pitch or coordinate transportation around the revised schedule.
What Cubs Fans Should Know Before First Pitch
Fans planning to watch from home can follow the game on NBC Chicago. The network also promotes free, 24/7 streaming access through its viewing platform, giving audiences another option while they wait for the matchup to begin.
The most important update remains the revised timing: the game will not begin before 6:45 p.m. That wording leaves open the possibility of another adjustment if the weather worsens. Viewers should check official NBC Chicago updates and the team’s game information before making last-minute plans.
The broadcast lineup offers a blend of current analysis, former-player insight and familiar baseball voices. Benetti and Brantley are set to handle the play-by-play and analysis, while Rizzo, Fareed and Votto round out the presentation. For viewers, the expanded group could provide additional discussion of the series, the players and the impact of the weather delay.
Why Anthony Rizzo’s Role Matters
Rizzo’s appearance is notable because of his longstanding connection with Chicago baseball fans. While the source report identifies him as part of the broadcast team, it does not indicate that he is playing in the game. His role tonight is as an analyst and commentator for NBC Chicago’s coverage.
That distinction is important for viewers searching for updates about Rizzo. The latest information concerns his participation in the broadcast, not a return to the Cubs’ active roster. Fans tuning in can expect his perspective from the booth as Chicago faces Cincinnati in the series finale.
Weather remains the immediate story. The Cubs and Reds will have to wait before completing their matchup, while fans and viewers adjust to the later start. If conditions improve, the game is expected to begin at 6:45 p.m. or later, with Rizzo among the voices covering the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Cubs-Reds game delayed?
Rain forced officials to delay the series finale. The original 6:20 p.m. start was moved, and first pitch will not take place before 6:45 p.m.
Is Anthony Rizzo playing in the game?
No. The report identifies Anthony Rizzo as a member of the NBC Chicago broadcast team, not as a player in the Cubs-Reds matchup.
Who is calling the Cubs-Reds game?
The scheduled broadcast team includes Jason Benetti, Jeff Brantley, Anthony Rizzo, Ahmed Fareed and Joey Votto.
Where can fans watch the game?
The series finale is scheduled to air on NBC Chicago as part of NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball coverage.
Could the start time change again?
Yes. The game will not begin before 6:45 p.m., and further weather-related changes are possible if rain or field conditions remain an issue.
