CHICAGO – A shocking news has just shaken the baseball world: Kerry Wood, the legend who made history with the Chicago Cubs, will officially return to the team as bullpen coach for the 2026 season. This decision not only marks an emotional return for one of the Cubs’ greatest icons, but also opens a promising new chapter for a team that is in the process of rebuilding.
Wood, who is famous for his legendary 20-strikeout game in 1998, spent his entire Major League Baseball career with both the Cubs and Cleveland Indians. Throughout his career, he won more than 120 games and made his mark as one of the best pitchers of his generation. After retiring, Wood spent time as a baseball analyst, but his love for Wrigley Field and his old team always urged him to return.
The official announcement from the Chicago Cubs today said that Wood will join the coaching staff under head coach Craig Counsell. In addition, the 2026 coaching staff also includes other famous names such as Sammy Sosa (bench coach), Mark Grace (batting coach) and Greg Maddux (pitching coach). This combination promises to bring new life to the Cubs, at the same time passing on the valuable experience of the legends to the younger generation of players.
In his first statement since taking over, Kerry Wood said: “Returning to the Cubs is a great honor and responsibility. I have seen the team go through many ups and downs, and I look forward to playing a small but meaningful role in helping the players achieve success and returning the Cubs to their rightful place. Wrigley Field has always been my home, and now I will return to bring my experience, passion, and everything I have learned over the years to the team.”
Cubs General Manager Jed Hoyer also expressed his excitement: “Kerry Wood is not only a legend of the team, but also an example of fighting spirit and loyalty. His experience, vision, and passion will be a great source of motivation for the entire team, especially the young pitchers, who will learn a lot from him.”
Wood’s return is expected to create an important turning point. The Cubs have faced many challenges in recent seasons, from building a roster to finding important victories in the playoffs. Having a legend like Wood on the coaching staff not only has spiritual value, but also sends a strong message to fans: the Cubs are serious about rebuilding and moving towards a successful future.
The Cubs fan community reacted immediately to the news, expressing excitement and hope that Wood’s return will help the team regain its fighting spirit and achieve impressive results. Fans everywhere on social media shared photos, memories and messages welcoming Wood back to Wrigley Field, where he left an indelible mark.
The 2026 season promises to be a promising new chapter for the Chicago Cubs, with legends converging with the current roster to provide a balance of experience and youth. Kerry Wood, with his illustrious experience and unwavering loyalty to the Cubs, will undoubtedly be at the heart of the team’s rebirth, and a constant source of inspiration for fans.
This return is not just news, but also a strong commitment from the Cubs: the team is looking forward to a brighter future, and Wrigley Field will continue to be the place to witness new historical moments under the leadership of legends like Kerry Wood.
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