The New York Yankees have yet to make a decision on a possible return of Anthony Rizzo from free agency, although their options are limited and the first baseman could follow in the footsteps of Gleyber Torres and find a new destination
Rizzo’s offensive numbers plummeted in the 2024 season, even going 133 at-bats without hitting a home run. Defensively, he is also not the brilliant arm of his prime at Yankee Stadium, and he has against him the error along with Gerrit Cole in Game 5 of the World Series.
At 35 years of age, injuries weigh on his chances of returning, along with the addition to the team of veteran Paul Goldschmidt, who could play at first base if Pete Alonso does not arrive at the last minute. Alonso is still available and open to getting an option, given the stagnation of negotiations with the New York Mets.
“I love playing here, I love being a Yankee. I appreciate the legacy left by the great players of the past. Yes, this could be my last year, I’m realistic,” Rizzo told reporters at the end of the World Series, in words that did not fall on deaf ears with general manager Brian Cashman, who still has him in his plans.
“I’ve had conversations with his agent, Marc Pollack, Rizzo loved being here. I can’t close the door on any free agent. I’ll let the winter unfold,” Cashman told Sporting News, adding: “I know Rizzo was also very well respected in our locker room, so let’s wait and see how it all plays out.”
Rizzo’s options if he doesn’t return to the Yankees
After the Yankees were eliminated from the World Series, in addition to sending the message that he was not naive and knew that it could be his farewell, Anthony Rizzo made it clear to the press that he did not plan to retire, so if he does not manage to return, according to Total Pro Sports, these are the three teams that could bet on the first baseman:
- Chicago Cubs: Rizzo won the 2016 World Series with them and they are a team that is looking to add talent to their roster.
- New York Mets: Negotiations with Pete Alonso are still stalled and they need a first baseman. If they already added Juan Soto and Clay Holmes, why not a third Yankee to Queens?
- Miami Marlins: The team’s need to add experienced hitters makes it an ideal destination for Rizzo, and both would benefit from a short-term deal.
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