![Ben Zobrist reacts as he scores on a double by...]()
Alex Brandon / AP
Ben Zobrist reacts as he scores on a double by Addison Russell during the fifth inning of Game 5 of baseball's National League Division Series against the Washington Nationals, at Nationals Park, Oct. 12, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist walks in the dugout before the first inning...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist walks in the dugout before the first inning of a Cubs spring training game against the Brewers at Sloan Park on Feb. 23, 2019.
![Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist applies the tag as Reds center fielder...]()
Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune
Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist applies the tag as Reds center fielder Billy Hamilton is caught stealing second in the third inning at Wrigley Field on Friday, July 6, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist fields a grounder during the first inning of...]()
James Borchuck / McClatchy-Tribune
Ben Zobrist fields a grounder during the first inning of a game against the Minnesota Twins at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on July 8, 2013.
![Tom Zobrist receives a hug from his son, Cubs player...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Tom Zobrist receives a hug from his son, Cubs player Ben Zobrist, after Tom threw out a ceremonial first pitch before a game against the Rockies at Wrigley Field on Thursday, June 8, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist singles against the Padres during the second inning...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist singles against the Padres during the second inning at Wrigley Field on May 10, 2016.
![Julianna Zobrist, the wife of the Cubs' Ben Zobrist, sings...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist, the wife of the Cubs' Ben Zobrist, sings the National Anthem on May 30, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist hits a double against the New York Mets...]()
David Eulitt / TNS
Ben Zobrist hits a double against the New York Mets during Game Four of the 2015 World Series on Oct. 31, 2015, at Citi Field in New York.
![Ben Zobrist fails to catch a fly ball in the...]()
Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist fails to catch a fly ball in the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game five of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field on October 19, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates a home run against the Toronto Blue...]()
Matt Slocum / AP
Ben Zobrist celebrates a home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning in Game Six of the American League Championship Series on Oct. 23, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist stretches, before the start of the game against...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stretches, before the start of the game against the Milwaukee Brewers, at Wrigley Field on Aug. 16, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist heads to the clubhouse after a 9-8 loss...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist heads to the clubhouse after a 9-8 loss to the Cardinals at Wrigley Field on Sept. 21, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist bats against the Rockies during the ninth inning...]()
David Banks / AP
Ben Zobrist bats against the Rockies during the ninth inning on Sunday, April 17, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist tags out Chicago White Sox' Dewayne Wise as...]()
José M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist tags out Chicago White Sox' Dewayne Wise as he tries to steal second base in the first inning at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago on Sept. 30, 2012.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist departs for the team's Anchorman-themed...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist departs for the team's Anchorman-themed road trip Thursday, May 25, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist leaves Wrigley Field dressed in...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist leaves Wrigley Field dressed in an "Easy Rider"-themed outfit after the Cubs lost to the Nationals on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist, top, watches his throw to first base in...]()
Mike Carlson / Associated Press
Ben Zobrist, top, watches his throw to first base in an attempt to complete a double play after being taken down by the slide of Minnesota Twins' Carlos Gomez on May 31, 2009, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
![Ben Zobrist signs a baseball before a South Bend Cubs...]()
John Konstantaras / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist signs a baseball before a South Bend Cubs game against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Four Winds Field on Aug. 2, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist bats during the first inning against the Brewers...]()
Benny Sieu / AP
Ben Zobrist bats during the first inning against the Brewers on Friday, July 22, 2016, in Milwaukee.
![Ben Zobrist signals in the eighth inning against the Indians...]()
Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist signals in the eighth inning against the Indians in Game 5 of the World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 30, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist in the South Bend Cubs dugout before their...]()
John Konstantaras / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist in the South Bend Cubs dugout before their game against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Four Winds Field on Aug. 2, 2019.
![New Cubs player Ben Zobrist smiles while answering questions for...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
New Cubs player Ben Zobrist smiles while answering questions for fans at the annual Cubs Convention.
![Ben Zobrist, center, listens as Cubs manager Joe Maddon speaks...]()
Mark Humphrey / AP
Ben Zobrist, center, listens as Cubs manager Joe Maddon speaks at a news conference at Major League Baseball's winter meetings where it was announced that Zobrist signed with the Cubs on Dec. 9, 2015.
![Ben Zobrist tosses a baseball to a fan after the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist tosses a baseball to a fan after the game on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, Opening Day at Wrigley Field.
![The Cubs' Ben Zobrist watches his three-run home run in...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
The Cubs' Ben Zobrist watches his three-run home run in the first inning against the Rockies at Wrigley Field on Sunday, June 11, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist, left, crosses home plate after hitting a two-run...]()
Gene J. Puskar / AP
Ben Zobrist, left, crosses home plate after hitting a two-run home run off Pirates starting pitcher Chad Kuhl during the first inning in Pittsburgh on Saturday, July 9, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist waves to the crowd during a parade celebrating...]()
Charlie Riedel / AP
Ben Zobrist waves to the crowd during a parade celebrating the Royals' World Series win on Nov. 3, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri. The Royals beat the New York Mets in five games to win the championship.
![Ben Zobrist hits a two-run single against the Oakland Athletics...]()
Jason O. Watson / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist hits a two-run single against the Oakland Athletics during the third inning at the Oakland Coliseum on Aug. 6, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist lines up for the naitonal anthem on Monday,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist lines up for the naitonal anthem on Monday, April 10, 2017 at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist looks on before Game Two of the 2015...]()
Tim Bradbury / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist looks on before Game Two of the 2015 World Series between the Royals and the New York Mets at Kauffman Stadium on October 28, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Tampa Bay Rays third base coach Tom Foley congratulates Ben...]()
James Borchuck / McClatchy-Tribune
Tampa Bay Rays third base coach Tom Foley congratulates Ben Zobrist after his two-run home run against the Seattle Mariners at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on August 13, 2013.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist celebrates his leadoff home run...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist celebrates his leadoff home run in the first inning Sunday, May 21, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball in the seventh inning...]()
Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball in the seventh inning against the San Francisco Giants at Wrigley Field on October 8, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist doubles in the ninth inning Friday April 28,...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist doubles in the ninth inning Friday April 28, 2017, in Boston against the Red Sox.
![Miguel Montero celebrates with Ben Zobrist and Willson Contreras after...]()
Jon Durr / Getty Images
Miguel Montero celebrates with Ben Zobrist and Willson Contreras after hitting a walkoff RBI single against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 13th inning at Wrigley Field on Aug. 29, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist gives Daniel Novak, 3, a high-five during the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist gives Daniel Novak, 3, a high-five during the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist (18) takes the field Thursday, April 12, 2018,...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist (18) takes the field Thursday, April 12, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist singles against the Cardinals during the first inning...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist singles against the Cardinals during the first inning in St. Louis on May 23, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist slides to score against the Houston Astros at Tropicana Field...]()
Will Vragovic / McClatchy-Tribune
Ben Zobrist slides to score against the Houston Astros at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on June 22, 2014.
![Cubs manager Joe Maddon, joins Ben Zobrist for the announcement...]()
Mark Humphrey / AP
Cubs manager Joe Maddon, joins Ben Zobrist for the announcement that Zobrist signed with the Cubs at Major League Baseball's winter meetings on Dec. 9, 2015, in Nashville, Tenn.
![The White Sox's Tim Anderson is tagged out by Ben...]()
Darron Cummings / AP
The White Sox's Tim Anderson is tagged out by Ben Zobrist while trying to steal second during the second inning of a spring training game on Friday, March 17, 2017, in Phoenix.
![Ben Zobrist walks to the team bus dressed in onesies...]()
Michael Owen Baker / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist walks to the team bus dressed in onesies after their game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.
![Ben Zobrist is congratulated in the dugout after scoring against...]()
Jon Durr / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist is congratulated in the dugout after scoring against the San Francisco Giants on sacrifice fly by Javier Baez at Wrigley Field on September 3, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist reacts after hitting a double against the New...]()
Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist reacts after hitting a double against the New York Mets during Game Four of the 2015 World Series at Citi Field on October 31, 2015.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist grounds out to first to...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist grounds out to first to score third baseman Kris Bryant during the first inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Saturday, June 9, 2018.
![Joe Maddon and Ben Zobrist after the Cubs won the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Joe Maddon and Ben Zobrist after the Cubs won the NLCS on Oct. 22, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
![Left fielder Ben Zobrist works out Oct. 9, 2016 a...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Left fielder Ben Zobrist works out Oct. 9, 2016 a day before Game 3 of their National League Division Series at AT&T Park.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist celebrates after getting a single during the first...]()
Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist celebrates after getting a single during the first inning against the Marlins on May 6, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist with an RBI double in the 10th inning...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist with an RBI double in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist walks through the dugout before the first inning...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist walks through the dugout before the first inning at against the Mariners Wrigley Field on Sept. 3, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist runs to first base after fielding a grounder...]()
Mark Duncan / AP
Ben Zobrist runs to first base after fielding a grounder in the first inning of an exhibition game on March 5, 2013, in Glendale, Arizona.
![Ben Zobrist signs for a young fan, after his team's...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist signs for a young fan, after his team's 5-1 win over the Los Angeles Angels, at Wrigley Field Aug. 9, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist dives to make a catch against the New...]()
Mike Stobe / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist dives to make a catch against the New York Mets during Game Three of the 2015 World Series at Citi Field on October 30, 2015, in New York City.
![Ben Zobrist throws from his knees to get out San...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist throws from his knees to get out San Francisco Giants hitter Angel Pagan on a ground ball in the first inning of a game at Wrigley Field on September 1, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist gets ready for batting practice before Game 3...]()
David J. Phillip / AP
Ben Zobrist gets ready for batting practice before Game 3 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Oct. 18, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist stretches before taking batting practice with the South...]()
John Konstantaras / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stretches before taking batting practice with the South Bend Cubs at Four Winds Field before a game against the West Michigan Whitecaps on Aug. 2, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist heads for the bus after the game against...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist heads for the bus after the game against the Atlanta Braves, at Wrigley Field, in Chicago, on Sunday May 1, 2016.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist has a laugh with...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist has a laugh with his wife, Julianna, as the two attend the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation's fourth annual Cook-Off for Cancer fundraiser at Morgan Manufacturing in Chicago on June 2, 2016.
![New York Mets first baseman Lucas Duda slides into second...]()
Shane Keyser / TNS
New York Mets first baseman Lucas Duda slides into second as Kansas City Royals second baseman Ben Zobrist turns a double play during Game 5 of the 2015 World Series on Nov. 1, 2015, at Citi Field in New York.
![Ben Zobrist reacts after striking out to end the 8th...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist reacts after striking out to end the 8th inning of a game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field September 8, 2017.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist celebrates his game-winning hit in...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist celebrates his game-winning hit in the eleventh inning against the Mets at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates a catch by Cubs left fielder Kyle...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist celebrates a catch by Cubs left fielder Kyle Schwarber to retire White Sox right fielder Avisail Garcia in the third inning Monday, July 24, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist fields ground balls during the Cubs fourth day...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist fields ground balls during the Cubs fourth day of spring training on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist crashes into Indians catcher Roberto Perez to score...]()
Jamie Squire / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist crashes into Indians catcher Roberto Perez to score a run in the first inning on a double hit by Addison Russell in Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Julianna Zobrist points to her husband and Chicago Cubs player...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist points to her husband and Chicago Cubs player Ben Zobrist after singing the national anthem on Oct. 18, 2017 before Game 4 of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field.
![The Cubs' Ben Zobrist looks on after grounding out while...]()
Joe Robbins / Getty Images
The Cubs' Ben Zobrist looks on after grounding out while pinch hitting in the eighth inning of a game against the Reds at Great American Ball Park on July 1, 2017, in Cincinnati.
![Ben Zobrist rounds the bases after hitting a solo homer...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist rounds the bases after hitting a solo homer in the sixth inning of a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field August 29, 2017.
![World Series MVP Ben Zobrist points to the sky as...]()
Matt Marton / AP
World Series MVP Ben Zobrist points to the sky as the team celebrates during the 2016 World Series championship ring ceremony on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist runs the bases after hitting a home run...]()
David Banks / AP
Ben Zobrist runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Reds during the fifth inning Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist holds up the World Series MVP trophy and...]()
Charles Rex Arbogast / AP
Ben Zobrist holds up the World Series MVP trophy and addresses the crowd during a celebration in Grant Park on Nov. 4, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist throws out a Los Angeles Angels player on...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist throws out a Los Angeles Angels player on a ground ball in the first preseason game of spring training, March 4, 2016.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist signs autographs before the first...]()
Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist signs autographs before the first inning of a spring training game against the Athletics on Feb. 28, 2019, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist scores off a sacrifice fly from Nicholas Castellanos...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist scores off a sacrifice fly from Nicholas Castellanos during the third inning against the Mariners at Wrigley Field on Sept. 3, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist signs autographs before a game against the Rockies...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist signs autographs before a game against the Rockies at Wrigley Field on Friday, April 15, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist runs during a spring training game against the...]()
Darron Cummings / AP
Ben Zobrist runs during a spring training game against the White Sox on Friday, March 17, 2017, in Phoenix.
![Ben Zobrist high-fives fans as the 2017 Chicago Cubs are...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist high-fives fans as the 2017 Chicago Cubs are introduced on the first day of the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Friday, Jan. 13, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist after hitting a double in the eighth inning...]()
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist after hitting a double in the eighth inning against the Dodgers during Game 1 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field on Oct. 15, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist watches his two-run home run against the Toronto...]()
Matt Slocum / AP
Ben Zobrist watches his two-run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning in Game Four of the American League Championship Series on Oct. 20, 2015, in Toronto.
![Ben Zobrist looks on during practice at Nationals Park, Oct....]()
Nick Wass / AP
Ben Zobrist looks on during practice at Nationals Park, Oct. 5, 2017.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist laughs while sitting in the...]()
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist laughs while sitting in the dugout in the third inning against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field on Sunday, July 22, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates his RBI double during the 10th inning...]()
David J. Phillip / AP
Ben Zobrist celebrates his RBI double during the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist dives back safely to first base on a...]()
Jamie Sabau / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist dives back safely to first base on a pick-off attempt in the sixth inning against the Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 23, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist takes a pitch while at bat against the...]()
Scott Iskowitz / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist takes a pitch while at bat against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field on August 17, 2014, in St Petersburg, Florida.
![Ben Zobrist and Anthony Rizzo go for a pop up...]()
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist and Anthony Rizzo go for a pop up foul ball during the 1st inning as the Cubs play against the Brewers at Wrigley Field, Aug. 16, 2016.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist tags the Rockies' Ian Desmond...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist tags the Rockies' Ian Desmond out on a steal attempt in the eighth inning at Wrigley Field on Friday, June 9, 2017.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist returns to the dugout at...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist returns to the dugout at Wrigley Field on Monday, May 14, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist high-fives a group of children as members of...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist high-fives a group of children as members of the 2018 Cubs are introduced to fans on the first day of the annual Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Friday, January 12, 2018.
![Cubs Ben Zobrist hoists the MVP trophy as he's flanked...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs Ben Zobrist hoists the MVP trophy as he's flanked by wife, Julianna, and the car he won on the field after the Chicago Cubs beat the Indians to win the World Series in Cleveland early Thursday morning, Nov. 3, 2016.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist signs autographs for fans after...]()
Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist signs autographs for fans after a game against the Giants at Wrigley Field ion Friday, May 25, 2018. The Cubs won 6-2.
![Ben Zobrist hits an RBI double in the ninth inning...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist hits an RBI double in the ninth inning against the San Francisco Giants in Game 4 of the National League Division Series on Oct. 11, 2016, at AT&T Park.
![Ben Zobrist stands on stage with other members of the...]()
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stands on stage with other members of the baseball club during the annual Bricks and Ivy Ball charity event at Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom Thursday, April 28, 2016, in Chicago.
![Ben Zobrist riunds the bases after hitting a three-run home...]()
Keith Srakocic / AP
Ben Zobrist riunds the bases after hitting a three-run home run in the second inning against the Pirates on May 4, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist signs autographs prior to a spring training game...]()
Matt York / AP
Ben Zobrist signs autographs prior to a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels, March 28, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball hit by Houston Astros'...]()
Charlie Riedel / AP
Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball hit by Houston Astros' Carlos Correa during Game Five of the American League Division Series on Oct. 14, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist singles during the first inning...]()
Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist singles during the first inning against the Marlins on May 6, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist leaves the field after practice during spring training,...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist leaves the field after practice during spring training, Feb. 29, 2016.
![Javy Baez tries to get around then-Tampa Bay Rays player...]()
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Javy Baez tries to get around then-Tampa Bay Rays player Ben Zobrist after making a fielding error at Wrigley Field on August 9, 2014, in Chicago.
![Julianna Zobrist, the wife of Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist, the wife of Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist, sings the National Anthem before the game May 30, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Julianna Zobrist greets her husband, Chicago Cubs right fielder Ben...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist greets her husband, Chicago Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist, after singing the National Anthem on Memorial Day before the game May 30, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
![Chicago Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist, with his wife Julianna,...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist, with his wife Julianna, and their 8-month-old daughter Blaise, before the All-Star Home Run Derby at Petco Park in San Diego on July 11, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist hugs Cubs manager Joe Maddon in the dugout...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist hugs Cubs manager Joe Maddon in the dugout before the start of the game against the Cardinals at Busch Stadium in St. Louis on Sunday, April 2, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates in the dugout after scoring in the...]()
Will Vragovic / McClatchy-Tribune
Ben Zobrist celebrates in the dugout after scoring in the eighth inning against the Houston Astros at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on June 21, 2014.
![Ben Zobrist attends photo day during spring training at the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist attends photo day during spring training at the Under Armour Performance Center onFeb. 21, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist holds the Commissioner's Trophy before taking the stage...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist holds the Commissioner's Trophy before taking the stage during the Cubs' annual Bricks and Ivy Ball charity event at Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom on Wednesday, April 19, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist and Javier Baez celebrate their win over the...]()
David Banks / AP
Ben Zobrist and Javier Baez celebrate their win over the Nationals at Wrigley on May 6, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist makes the catch on a hit by the...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist makes the catch on a hit by the Dodgers' Joc Pederson in the second inning of Game 2 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field on Oct. 16, 2016.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist hits in the seventh inning...]()
David Zalubowski / AP
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist hits in the seventh inning of a doubleheader against the Rockies on Tuesday, May 9, 2017, in Denver.
![Cubs player Ben Zobrist and wife Julianna Zobrist share a...]()
Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune
Cubs player Ben Zobrist and wife Julianna Zobrist share a laugh while enjoying Cubs manager Joe Maddon's annual charity boxing event called Respect 90 Main Event at the Wintrust Building in downtown Chicago on Friday, May 25, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates after scoring in the 12th inning against the...]()
Elsa / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist celebrates after scoring in the 12th inning against the New York Mets during Game Five of the 2015 World Series at Citi Field on November 1, 2015.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates after hitting a home run in the...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist celebrates after hitting a home run in the third inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Sept. 14, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist bats during the second inning against the Cardinals...]()
Scott Kane / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist bats during the second inning against the Cardinals at Busch Stadium on May 25, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist arrives at a news conference during Major League Baseball's...]()
Mark Humphrey / AP
Ben Zobrist arrives at a news conference during Major League Baseball's winter meetings with his son, Zion, to announce that Zobrist has signed with the Cubs.
![Ben Zobrist takes the field for Game 4 of the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist takes the field for Game 4 of the World Series at Wrigley Field on Oct. 29, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates his fifth-inning home run Wednesday, July 6,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist celebrates his fifth-inning home run Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
![Right fielder Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball during the...]()
Marcio Jose Sanchez / AP
Right fielder Ben Zobrist catches a fly ball during the third inning of Game 3 of baseball's National League Division Series against the San Francisco Giants in San Francisco Oct. 10, 2016.
![Julianna Zobrist greets her husband, Cubs player Ben Zobrist, after...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist greets her husband, Cubs player Ben Zobrist, after she sang the National Anthem on Memorial Day before the game Monday, May 30, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist strikes out during the second...]()
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist strikes out during the second inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Friday, July 7, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist reacts after he struck out against the Boston...]()
James Borchuck / McClatchy-Tribune
Ben Zobrist reacts after he struck out against the Boston Red Sox in Game Two of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 5, 2013.
![Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist warms up on the field before...]()
Christian Petersen / Getty Images
Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist warms up on the field before a game against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Aug. 11, 2017, in Phoenix.
![Ben Zobrist scores on the three rbi double by Addison...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist scores on the three rbi double by Addison Russell during the first inning of their game at Busch Stadium, 700 Clark Ave., in St. Louis, Missouri, on Sept. 25, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates with his wife Julianna after being named...]()
Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist celebrates with his wife Julianna after being named MVP of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist reacts after grounding out Oct. 17, 2017 in...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist reacts after grounding out Oct. 17, 2017 in the eighth inning of Game 3 of the National League Championship Series playoff at Wrigley Field.
![Cubs fan Nicole Edwards has her photograph taken with Ben...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fan Nicole Edwards has her photograph taken with Ben Zobrist before a game against the Brewers at Miller Park on May 18, 2016.
![Cardinals center fielder Dexter Fowler calls for time as Cubs...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cardinals center fielder Dexter Fowler calls for time as Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist gets up after Fowler steals second base in the sixth inning at Wrigley Field on Friday, July 21, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist, left, celebrates after the Kansas City Royals' 7-2 win...]()
Orlin Wagner / AP
Ben Zobrist, left, celebrates after the Kansas City Royals' 7-2 win over the Houston Astros in Game Five of the American League Division Series on Oct. 14, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist stretches before hitting during the Cubs fourth day...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stretches before hitting during the Cubs fourth day of spring training on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist puts on his shoes before running drills during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist puts on his shoes before running drills during spring training on Feb. 22, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist leaves the batting cages during Cubs spring training...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist leaves the batting cages during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park Sunday Feb. 18, 2018, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist looks on before game three of the National...]()
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist looks on before game three of the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Wrigley Field on October 17, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist singles against the New York Yankees at Charlotte...]()
Will Vragovic / McClatchy-Tribune
Ben Zobrist singles against the New York Yankees at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, Florida, on March 5, 2014.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates after he hits an RBI single in...]()
Armando Sanchez / TNS
Ben Zobrist celebrates after he hits an RBI single in the first inning against the San Francisco Giants in Game 2 of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field Oct. 8, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist Cubs slides into third base after hitting a...]()
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Ben Zobrist Cubs slides into third base after hitting a triple against the Dodgers during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field on May 30, 2016.
![Cubs player Ben Zobrist poses for photographs with his family...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs player Ben Zobrist poses for photographs with his family after his father Tom Zobrist threw out a ceremonial first pitch before a game against the Rockies at Wrigley Field on Thursday, June 8, 2017.
![Julianna Zobrist, wife of Cubs Ben Zobrist, who is enjoying...]()
Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist, wife of Cubs Ben Zobrist, who is enjoying a successful singing career of her own, poses for a photo in Chicago Sept. 30, 2016.
![Cubs player Ben Zobrist is congratulated in the dugout after...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs player Ben Zobrist is congratulated in the dugout after scoring on a single by teammate Kris Bryant in the eighth inning against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field on Saturday, July 22, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist smiles as he receives his All-Star jersey just before...]()
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Ben Zobrist smiles as he receives his All-Star jersey just before the start of a game against the Houston Astros at Tropicana Field on July 14, 2013, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist and Javier Baez celebrate as...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist and Javier Baez celebrate as they score behind Blue Jays catcher Raffy Lopez in the tenth inning for a walk-off win Sunday, Aug. 20, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist reacts at third base after hitting an RBI...]()
Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist reacts at third base after hitting an RBI triple to score Anthony Rizzo during the fifth inning of Game 2 of the World Series on Oct. 26, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist, center, celebrates after hitting a solo home run...]()
John Minchillo / AP
Ben Zobrist, center, celebrates after hitting a solo home run off Reds starting pitcher Brandon Finnegan during the second inning on April 21, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist Cubs waves to the crowd during a World...]()
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Ben Zobrist Cubs waves to the crowd during a World Series victory parade on Nov. 4, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist flies out during the first inning of a...]()
John Konstantaras / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist flies out during the first inning of a South Bend Cubs game against the West Michigan Whitecaps at Four Winds Field on Aug. 2, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist signs autographs for neighbors in front of his...]()
E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist signs autographs for neighbors in front of his home in the North Center neighborhood after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist hits against Italy during the second inning of...]()
Matt York / AP
Ben Zobrist hits against Italy during the second inning of a exhibition game on Tuesday, March 7, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist makes a running catch in...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist makes a running catch in the fifth inning against the White Sox on Tuesday, July 25, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist is called out at home...]()
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist is called out at home plate in the sixth inning against the Pirates at Wrigley on April 11, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist signs an autograph for Brady Soss, 8, during...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist signs an autograph for Brady Soss, 8, during the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago hotel Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, in Chicago.
![Julianna Zobrist greets her husband Ben Zobrist after she sang...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist greets her husband Ben Zobrist after she sang the National Anthem on Memorial Day at Wrigley Field on May 30, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist breaks his bat at the fourth inning of...]()
Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist breaks his bat at the fourth inning of Game 2 of the National League Division Series playoff at Nationals Park Oct. 7, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist poses for a portrait during photo day at...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist poses for a portrait during photo day at spring training, Feb. 29, 2016.
![Julianna Zobrist, wife of Cubs player Ben Zobrist, takes a...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist, wife of Cubs player Ben Zobrist, takes a picture with teammates during the Brewers-Cubs Wives Softball Challenge at Helfaer Field on the grounds of Miller Park Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Milwaukee.
![Ben Zobrist rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home...]()
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run during the third inning against the Phillies on May 29, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist connects for a single in the second inning...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist connects for a single in the second inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Sept. 14, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist poses for a portrait at spring training onFeb....]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist poses for a portrait at spring training onFeb. 21, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist catches a throw from Jake Arrieta to get...]()
Anthony Souffle / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist catches a throw from Jake Arrieta to get the double play on a hit by the Pirates' Josh Harrison in the fourth inning at Wrigley Field on May 14, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist speaks with reporters at Major League Baseball's winter...]()
Mark Humphrey / AP
Ben Zobrist speaks with reporters at Major League Baseball's winter meetings after it was announced that Zobrist signed with the Cubs on Dec. 9, 2015.
![Ben Zobrist runs the bases after hitting a three-run home...]()
David Banks / AP
Ben Zobrist runs the bases after hitting a three-run home run against the Nationals during the fifth inning on May 6, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist holds up at second base after a double...]()
Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist holds up at second base after a double in the third inning against the San Francisco Giants during Game Three of their National League Division Series at AT&T Park on October 10, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist slides safely at home plate against the tag...]()
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist slides safely at home plate against the tag by Brewers catcher Pina, during the game against the Brewers at Wrigley Field, Aug. 16, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist takes his gloves off after taking batting practice...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist takes his gloves off after taking batting practice during Cubs spring training on Feb. 23, 2019, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist celebrates in the dugout after scoring a run...]()
Jamie Squire / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist celebrates in the dugout after scoring a run against the Toronto Blue Jays in Game Two of the American League Championship Series at Kauffman Stadium on October 17, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist runs after hitting a double against the New...]()
Jamie Squire / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist runs after hitting a double against the New York Mets during Game One of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium on October 27, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist poses for a photograph with the Cubs' All-Stars...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist poses for a photograph with the Cubs' All-Stars before a game against the Braves at Wrigley Field on Thursday, July 7, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist reacts after hitting a double in the eighth...]()
Doug Pensinger / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist reacts after hitting a double in the eighth inning against the New York Mets during Game One of the World Series at Kauffman Stadium on October 27, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist slides but can't make the...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist slides but can't make the catch on a hit by Pirates center fielder Melky Cabrera in the fourth inning April 8, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist has brunch Oct. 8, 2017 at Wrigley Field.]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist has brunch Oct. 8, 2017 at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist hits an infield single during the sixth inning...]()
David J. Phillip / AP
Ben Zobrist hits an infield single during the sixth inning of Game 4 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Oct. 19, 2016.
![Second baseman Ben Zobrist and his family celebrate the Cubs...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Second baseman Ben Zobrist and his family celebrate the Cubs National League Central division title at Wrigley Field September 16, 2016.
![Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist warms up before a game...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist warms up before a game April 25, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist slides past Carlos Perez of the Los Angeles...]()
Jason O. Watson / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist slides past Carlos Perez of the Los Angeles Angels to score during a game on June 21, 2015, in Oakland, California.
![Ben Zobrist talks during media day for the 2015 World Series...]()
Charlie Riedel / AP
Ben Zobrist talks during media day for the 2015 World Series against the New York Mets on Oct. 26, 2015, in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist throws his bat after flying out in the...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist throws his bat after flying out in the sixth inning of Game 4 of the World Series on Oct. 29, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist hits a double in the second inning during...]()
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist hits a double in the second inning during game four of the National League Division Series against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field on October 11, 2017.
![Ben Zobrist listens to a reporter's question at Progressive Field...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist listens to a reporter's question at Progressive Field before the World Series on Oct. 24, 2016.
![Ben Zobrist after he scored on the double by David...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist after he scored on the double by David Ross during the first inning of their game at Busch Stadium on May 24, 2016.
![Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist can't snag a ball hit by the Dodgers'...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs infielder Ben Zobrist can't snag a ball hit by the Dodgers' Andre Ethier during a spring training baseball game on March 4, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ben Zobrist sits in the Cubs dugout after rejoining the...]()
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist sits in the Cubs dugout after rejoining the team before a game against the Brewers at Wrigley Field on Sept. 1, 2019.
![Ben Zobrist hits a single in the fourteenth inning against...]()
Doug Pensinger / Getty Images
Ben Zobrist hits a single in the fourteenth inning against the New York Mets during Game One of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium on October 27, 2015 in Kansas City, Missouri.
![Ben Zobrist signs autographs prior to a spring training game...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Ben Zobrist signs autographs prior to a spring training game against the Reds on March 2, 2017, in Goodyear, Ariz.
![Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist with his wife, Julianna,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist with his wife, Julianna, after the Cubs won the National League pennant at Wrigley Field in 2016.
![Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist scores in the third inning...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs right fielder Ben Zobrist scores in the third inning at Wrigley Field on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018.
![Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist hip-checks teammate Kyle Schwarber before...]()
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Ben Zobrist hip-checks teammate Kyle Schwarber before a game against the Angels on April 13, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
![Ben Zobrist, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo celebrate their win...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo celebrate their win during Game 4 of the NLDS against the Giants on Oct. 11, 2016.
![Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist takes the field at Wrigley...]()
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs second baseman Ben Zobrist takes the field at Wrigley Field for a game against the Dodgers on Tuesday, June 19, 2018.
![Ben Zobrist stands beside fans during the National Anthem for...]()
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stands beside fans during the National Anthem for the team's first preseason game of spring training, March 4, 2016.
![Julianna Zobrist points to a T-shirt with a caricature of...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Julianna Zobrist points to a T-shirt with a caricature of her face, worn by her husband, Cubs player Ben Zobrist, during the Brewers-Cubs Wives Softball Challenge at Helfaer Fieldon the grounds of Miller Park Tuesday, June 12, 2018, in Milwaukee.
Ben Zobrist, the former Chicago Cubs utility player and 2016 World Series MVP, has filed a lawsuit accusing his former minister of having a sexual relationship with his wife Julianna and defrauding Zobrist’s charity foundation.
The lawsuit against Byron Yawn, CEO of the Nashville-area counseling firm Forrest Crain and Co., seeks $6 million in punitive and compensatory damages through a jury trial.
According to the complaint filed May 6 in Nashville Circuit Court, Yawn, while acting as the Zobrists’ marital counselor and executive director of Ben Zobrist’s charity, “usurped the ministerial-counselor role, violated and betrayed the confidence entrusted to him by the plaintiff, breached his fiduciary duty owed to the plaintiff and deceitfully used his access as counselor to engage in an inappropriate sexual relationship with the plaintiff’s wife.”
Yawn’s attorney, Christopher Bellamy of Nashville-based Neal and Harwell, told the Tribune Monday: “At the end of the day, a woman has the right to choose who she wants to be with. We’re in the middle of litigation, so I can’t really comment further at this point, but that’s what it boils down to.”
He added, “My client deserves his day in court and for the truth to be heard, and so we’re going to do that through the court process.”
The Zobrists began attending Community Bible Church in Nashville in 2005, where Yawn had been the senior pastor for about 20 years, according to the lawsuit.
Yawn served as the couples’ pre-marital counselor in December 2005.
“In addition, they later accepted the defendant’s invitation to officiate the public dedication of their three infant children,” according to the lawsuit.
Ben Zobrist started counseling sessions with Yawn in 2007, and again in 2016 and ’17 when Zobrist was experiencing anxiety and depression, the suit states.
According to the suit, Yawn began having daily conversations with Julianna in August 2018, then “began secretly pursuing an intimate relationship with Mr. Zobrist’s wife” the following month.
Yawn was working for Ben Zobrist’s charity at the time, and a proposed budget included a $36,000 annual salary for Yawn. Over the next several months, Yawn and Julianna began working closely to develop the charity’s social media presence, the lawsuit says.
“(His) romantic involvement with Ms. Zobrist escalated in the spring of 2019, when he began meeting her for sex,” the suit states.
Ben Zobrist contends in the lawsuit that Julianna and Yawn, still serving as a counselor, continued their relationship in spring 2020 and kept it secret by using “burner phones.”
Zobrist had an “excused absence” to miss part of Cubs spring training in February 2019.
According to the lawsuit, Zobrist explained during a Feb. 20 text exchange with Yawn why he couldn’t go to Mesa, Ariz., for spring training.
“Was hoping to be at spring training but can’t leave yet. You should know that Jules told me she has spoken with a divorce lawyer twice,” Zobrist wrote. “I care too much about my marriage and family to be away during such a critical time.”
Yawn, according to the suit, responded, “That’s heavy friend. Yawns love you and your family. Whatever you need. Whatever you need to do. Grace.”
In May 2019, according to the lawsuit, Yawn’s wife discovered his burner phone and contacted Ben Zobrist the next day to tell him about what she believed was an emotional affair.
Ben and Julianna Zobrist each filed for divorce in May 2019 in Illinois and Tennessee.
Ben Zobrist took time off beginning in May 2019 to be with his family and didn’t return to the Cubs until September.
Zobrist “forfeited months of the 2019 season,” causing him to lose approximately $8 million in income while he tried to repair his marriage, the lawsuit says.
The lawsuit states that in June 2020, during divorce proceedings, Julianna acknowledged for the first time that “she and Byron Yawn had been engaged in a sexual relationship for several months and that she had lied about this to Mr. Zobrist.”
Zobrist also alleges in the lawsuit that Yawn defrauded Zobrist’s charity for athletes. Yawn performed various roles for the Patriot Forward Charity, which Ben Zobrist founded to promote mental health among athletes and help them transition once their careers are over.
Yawn “drafted his own job description as executive director” in December 2018.
Ben Zobrist says in the lawsuit that he was tithing $10,000 per month to Yawn’s church and paid $10,000-$15,000 to fund a “pastoral trip” for Yawn and his family.
In March 2019, Patriot Forward Charity terminated Yawn’s $3,500-per-month job as executive director, but Yawn “somehow continued to fraudulently receive salary checks until May of 2019” and cashed them knowing he had been fired, the lawsuit claims.
Ben Zobrist’s suit seeks damages for breach of fiduciary duty and intentional infliction of emotional distress, adding that Yawn’s actions constitute “outrageous conduct.”
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