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Anthony Rizzo: Cubs Hero, Yankees Vet Still Unsigned for 2025 Season
about 1 year agoUS
As the 2025 MLB regular season gets underway, a familiar face is surprisingly absent from major league rosters: Anthony Rizzo. The veteran first baseman, known for his time with the Chicago Cubs and recent stint with the New York Yankees, remains a free agent, leaving many fans wondering about his future.
Key Insights
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Veteran Free Agent:: Anthony Rizzo, 35, a three-time All-Star and 2016 World Series champion with the Cubs, is currently unsigned.
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Recent Performance:: Coming off a down year (.228 AVG, 8 HR, 35 RBI in 92 games) with the Yankees in 2024, impacted partly by a hand injury. The Yankees declined his $17M option.
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Decorated Career:: Rizzo boasts a 14-year career (.261 AVG, 303 HR, 965 RBI), four Gold Gloves, a Silver Slugger award, and significant postseason experience.
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Market Status:: Despite his resume and stated desire to keep playing, Rizzo has yet to secure a contract for the 2025 season. Viral rumors of a return to the Cubs were debunked as parody.
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Why this matters:: Rizzo's situation highlights the tough market veteran players can face, even those with championship pedigrees and strong clubhouse reputations, especially following a performance dip or injury.
In-Depth Analysis
Anthony Rizzo built a stellar reputation during his nearly decade-long tenure with the Chicago Cubs (2012-2021), becoming a cornerstone of the team that famously broke the World Series drought in 2016. His time in Chicago included three All-Star selections and multiple Gold Glove awards.
Traded to the New York Yankees in 2021, Rizzo continued to provide power and solid defense, launching 32 home runs in 2022 and helping the team reach the World Series in 2024. However, his 2024 season saw a significant statistical decline, exacerbated by a broken bone in his right hand. Consequently, the Yankees paid a $6 million buyout instead of exercising his $17 million option for 2025.
Despite expressing his intention to continue playing, Rizzo has found the free-agent market quiet. Teams seem hesitant, likely considering his age, recent stats, and injury history. A viral tweet suggesting a return to the Cubs generated buzz but originated from a parody account (FAX Sports) and holds no truth; the Cubs appear set at first base with Justin Turner and Michael Busch.
Interestingly, an opportunity might still exist with his former team, the Yankees. With primary designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton starting the 2025 season on the injured list due to torn elbow tendons, and backup Ben Rice having posted lackluster numbers in his 2024 MLB debut, there's a potential gap. Furthermore, newly signed first baseman Paul Goldschmidt is dealing with back tightness. Rizzo's experience, left-handed bat, and known clubhouse presence could make him an appealing depth option for the Yankees, potentially as a DH or backup first baseman, though he has indicated he isn't looking for a minor-league deal.
FAQs
Is Anthony Rizzo returning to the Cubs?
No, recent social media posts suggesting this were confirmed as parody. The Cubs have addressed their first base situation with other players.
Why hasn't Rizzo signed with a team for the 2025 season?
It's likely due to a combination of factors including his age (35), a statistically down 2024 season impacted by injury, and potentially his contract expectations meeting team valuations.
Could Rizzo still sign with the New York Yankees?
It's a possibility. Injuries to Giancarlo Stanton and Paul Goldschmidt have created potential needs at DH and first base depth. Rizzo's veteran experience could be valuable if the price is right.
Key Takeaways
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Even highly accomplished veterans like Rizzo face uncertainty in free agency as they age or experience performance dips.
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Injuries to key players (like Stanton) can unexpectedly open doors for free agents later in the offseason or early in the season.
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Keep an eye on teams that suffer injuries at first base or DH, as they might become potential landing spots for Rizzo.
Discussion
Rizzo remains a respected figure in baseball with a strong track record. His situation entering the 2025 season is a key storyline to follow for Cubs and Yankees fans alike.
*Do you think Anthony Rizzo will find a team for the 2025 season? Where would be the best fit? Let us know!*
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