Key Takeaways:

• Sammy Sosa's return to the Cubs after 20 years met with overwhelming fan support.
• Sosa is set to be inducted into the Cubs Hall of Fame this year.
• Fans celebrated Sosa as a hero, reminiscent of his glory days in Chicago.
• His vague apology for past mistakes was enough for Cubs fans to embrace him again.
• The event, dubbed "Sosapalooza," drew dedicated fans seeking to celebrate his legacy.

CHICAGO — In a historic and emotional turn of events, Sammy Sosa returned to the Chicago Cubs family on Friday, greeted by a jubilant crowd at the Cubs Convention, which many dubbed "Sosapalooza." It has been nearly 21 years since Sosa, once a heroic figure in the organization, departed under controversial circumstances marred by allegations and a decline in public favor. However, the atmosphere at the event was electric, as fans cheered and applauded every moment of Sosa's return, showing that time can indeed heal old wounds.

During the convention, Sosa jogged onto the stage, brandishing an American flag and emanating the exuberance that once made him a household name. The outpouring of love from Cubs fans was palpable, with many expressing their long-simmering desire for reconciliation. Former Cubs outfielder Brian McRae stated, "When Sammy was here, it was Michael Jordan, Frank Thomas, and Sammy in this town. He was a hero," encapsulating the sentiment felt by many in attendance.

Sosa's return also coincided with his induction into the Cubs Hall of Fame alongside former first baseman Derrek Lee, marking a significant reconciliation. The warm welcome from the organization signified a new chapter for Sosa, whose relationship with the Cubs had been icy since his departure in 2004, attributed to various setbacks, including performance-enhancing drug allegations and conduct issues.

Sosa had released a statement apologizing for unspecified mistakes, a vague acknowledgment that nonetheless resonated with fans. "I had the fans that loved me very much. I had to apologize to them," he remarked, evoking nostalgia for his tenure with the Cubs during a season imbued with excitement in 1998 when he famously competed with Mark McGwire for the home run title.

The cheers reached a crescendo when Sosa, wearing his iconic No. 21 jersey, danced across the stage, reawakening the memories of the joy he brought during his playing days. Reflecting on his return, he stated, “I think today was the perfect day, everybody was happy.” His sentiment echoed throughout the ballroom filled with fans who once regarded him as one of Chicago’s greatest sports figures.

Cubs fans showcased their unwavering support despite the controversies that clouded Sosa's legacy. Many reflected on how Sosa revitalized not only the Cubs but also deepened the bond between the team and its supporters. Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts confirmed the desire for Sosa's return, indicating that it was time to move past the acrimony that defined their prior relationship.

As Sosa embraced his moment, he recognized the significance of the evening, with fans chanting his name in unison: "Sam-my! Sam-my! Sam-my!" This extraordinary reunion suggests a healing within the Cubs community and a renewed appreciation for Sosa's contributions, both on and off the field.

It's clear that both Sosa and the Cubs are eager to put the past behind them, concentrating on future endeavors that could solidify their legacies together. While some former teammates expressed varied feelings about his return, none disrupted the goodwill prevailing at the convention, demonstrating that "all is forgiven" as the historic franchise celebrates Sosa's enduring influence.

Follow the latest in MLB with comprehensive coverage and stories like Sosa's moment of reconciliation at AP MLB.