Sammy Sosa

Sammy Sosa, a Dominican-American, devoted 18 seasons of his life to Major League Baseball (MLB) as a professional right fielder. His distinguished career saw him become a 7-time All-Star, a title he secured in 1995, between 1998–2002, and again in 2004. He also held the honor of being the National League (NL) Most Valuable Player in 1998. Sosa's prowess was further recognized with 6 Silver Slugger Awards and the NL Hank Aaron Award in 1999. His exceptional performance led to his induction into the Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame. He was invited to be a guest instructor at the Cubs' spring training in 2025.

During his career, Sosa achieved several notable milestones. He led the NL in home runs in 2000 and 2002 and in runs batted in 1998 and 2001. He became one of only nine players in MLB history to hit 600 career home runs, and the only player to have hit 60 or more home runs in a single season three times. Sosa's contribution to the Chicago Cubs was significant, hitting 35 or more home runs and 100+ RBIs for nine consecutive years. He remains the Cubs' all-time home run leader, having hit 545 home runs with the team.

Post-retirement, Sosa's legacy continues to be recognized. Ranked Number 95 in The Sporting News' update of "Baseball's 100 Greatest Players" in the 2005 edition, he was invited to the 2025 Cubs Convention following his public apology for "mistakes" made during his career. Despite not being elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Sosa's impact on the sport was acknowledged with the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award. His story, decorated with highs and lows, reflects a career committed to baseball, making him a notable figure in the sport's history.