Organizers said they expect bigger crowds than normal this year with the return of legendary slugger Sammy Sosa.

RIcketts on Sosa reunion: "We can just accept the fact that there were a lot of guys doing things that the league was discouraging."

Chicago Cubs Executive Chairman Tom Ricketts announced at tonight’s Cubs Convention Opening Ceremony that former Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee and outfielder Sammy Sosa will be inducted into the Cubs Hall of Fame this year.

Former Cubs star Sammy Sosa was elected to the team's Hall of Fame along with former first baseman Derrek Lee.

After over 20 years of absence from the Chicago Cubs organization after serving as the franchise icon for the previous decade, former North Side slugger Sammy Sosa was welcomed back by fans at this year's Cubs Convention.

Sammy Sosa headed up the steps and onto the stage, clutching a small American flag in his right hand. The former Cubs icon beamed as he jogged across the platform, reaching down to high-five some fans as he soaked in the cheers and familiar chants of his name.

When Sammy Sosa finally took the stage at the Cubs Convention after a 21-year absence, he carried an American flag, re-creating the memorable moment when he first took the field following the 9/11

A “very special” edition of the Cubs Convention kicked off Friday with the return of Sammy Sosa from Cubbie exile after 20 years, the introduction of new star Kyle Tucker and powder blue alternate jerseys and the same old hopes and dreams of the last 39 years.

Former Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa is introduced as he returns to Chicago at the opening ceremony of the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk on Jan. 17, 2025. The convention continues through Sunday. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

After over two decades away from the franchise, Sammy Sosa was finally welcomed back at Cubs Convention last night.

Sammy Sosa sprinting into the field with the American flag in hand. The post Sammy Sosa’s Iconic 9/11 Tribute Revisited as He Reunites With Cubs for Hall of Fame Induction appeared first on EssentiallySports.