COOPERSTOWN, NY — After decades of waiting and a career defined by consistency, class, and clutch performances, Chicago Cubs icon Mark Grace has officially been elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The long-awaited honor comes as a moment of celebration not only for Grace himself but for generations of Cubs fans who admired his impact on and off the field.

A Career Built on Heart and Hustle

Known for his smooth left-handed swing, elite defensive skills at first base, and unmatched ability to come through in big moments, Mark Grace played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, including 13 unforgettable years with the Cubs (1988–2000) and three with the Arizona Diamondbacks (2001–2003).

He retired with 2,445 career hits, three All-Star selections, four Gold Glove Awards, and a .303 lifetime batting average. Grace famously led all MLB players in hits during the 1990s, an incredible testament to his consistency and dedication to the game.

Grace’s Statement to Fans: “This Is For You, Chicago.”

Shortly after the official announcement, an emotional Mark Grace released a heartfelt statement to fans:

“I’ve dreamed about this moment my whole life—but I never got here alone. I share this honor with every teammate, every coach, every fan who ever cheered for me at Wrigley. Chicago gave me everything. This is for you, Cubs Nation. We did it together.”

He also paid tribute to his late father and thanked the Hall of Fame voters for believing in his journey.

A Beloved Figure in Cubs History

Grace became more than a player to Cubs fans—he became a symbol of grit, loyalty, and optimism, embodying the spirit of Wrigley Field through both rebuilding years and playoff chases. While he never captured a World Series title with the Cubs, he was widely viewed as the heart and soul of the franchise during the 1990s.

In his post-playing career, Grace remained close to the sport as a coach and broadcaster, continuing to inspire the next generation of players and fans.

Hall of Fame Ceremony This Summer

Mark Grace will be officially inducted in Cooperstown this July, joining other baseball legends in one of the sport’s most prestigious honors. He is expected to give a speech at the induction ceremony that will be attended by former teammates, family members, and thousands of Cubs fans making the pilgrimage to witness history.

A Legacy Secured

After years of being overlooked by Hall of Fame voters, today marks a turning point—not just for Grace, but for loyal fans who believed his legacy deserved a place among the game’s greats.