Ben Zobrist Confirms Retirement But Leaves Door Open for Return to Cubs in Non-Playing Role

Though he never made retirement official, former Chicago Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist stunningly confirmed this offseason that he "has no plans" to play baseball in 2020.

The 38-year-old is presently a free agent, and he is reportedly enjoying life raising his children in the wake of an ugly divorce from his wife, Julianna, that had him sidelined for the majority of last season.

As things stand, Zobrist will stay retired, but the former World Series MVP didn't rule out a potential reunion with the Cubs "in some capacity" in the future.

Ben Zobrist told us in a small group of reporters that he is of course retired and enjoying raising his kids. He said he would like to keep the door open with the Cubs to work in some capacity down the line.
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) March 6, 2020

That doesn't sound like a response from a guy who is wholly done with baseball, especially when you consider that Zobrist is with the organization at Spring Training.

It's apparent that the three-time All-Star wants to keep his relationship with the Cubs ongoing. That is hardly surprising after how much he's enjoyed his tenure with the franchise.

Of course, Zobrist was one of the heroes that helped Chicago end its historic 108-year World Series drought back in 2016.

Ben Zobrist chatted with reporters briefly today outside the ballpark. Said his sole focus right now is his family. Not officially retired, but has no plans of playing this season. Has been reconnecting with team this week behind scenes. Wants to keep relationship with org going.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) March 6, 2020

Though Zorilla may be content with family life right now, he may soon embrace a return to the MLB. If that ends up being the case, we'd be shocked if the Cubs didn't present him with that opportunity.