Rizzo, 35, is currently a free agent seeking a major league contract, expressing his desire to continue his 14-year career.
An injury to Yankees' primary DH Giancarlo Stanton (elbow tendons) has created a potential opening in their lineup.
While the Yankees have Paul Goldschmidt (dealing with back tightness) and Ben Rice at first base, Rizzo could provide valuable depth at DH or first base.
Despite a down year in 2024 (.636 OPS), Rizzo hit 32 home runs for the Yankees as recently as 2022 and offers veteran leadership.
Recent rumors of Rizzo returning to the Cubs originated from a parody social media account and are unsubstantiated.
Why this matters:: Rizzo signing with a team, particularly the Yankees, could bolster their lineup depth and add significant postseason experience. His free agency is closely watched by fans, especially in New York and Chicago, where he remains a beloved figure from the 2016 World Series championship team.
Anthony Rizzo, a cornerstone of the Chicago Cubs' 2016 World Series victory, is navigating free agency ahead of the 2025 season. After spending the last few seasons with the New York Yankees following an emotional departure from Chicago in 2021, the 35-year-old first baseman wants to continue playing but has reportedly found limited interest this offseason, particularly for the major league deal he seeks.
The situation took an interesting turn with news of Giancarlo Stanton's significant elbow injuries, sidelining the Yankees' primary designated hitter to start the season. This opens a potential door for Rizzo in New York. While the Yankees signed Paul Goldschmidt and have backup Ben Rice (who struggled in his 2024 MLB debut despite a good Spring Training), Rizzo could slot in as a DH. His left-handed bat showed power in 2022 (32 HRs), and his clubhouse presence and extensive postseason experience are valuable assets. Furthermore, Goldschmidt is also dealing with minor back issues, making experienced first base depth appealing.
Despite a viral tweet suggesting a return to the Cubs, fact-checks confirm it originated from a parody account ("FAX Sports"). While a playing return to Chicago seems unlikely given their current roster (signing Justin Turner, with Michael Busch at first), Rizzo's legacy there is secure. He spent nearly a decade with the Cubs, earning All-Star nods and Gold Gloves, and catching the final out of the curse-breaking 2016 World Series. Many fans anticipate a future role for him within the Cubs organization if his playing days conclude.
For now, Rizzo remains on the market, weighing his options as teams finalize their Opening Day rosters. His age and 2024 performance (.228 AVG, .636 OPS in 92 games before injury) are factors, but the Yankees' injury situation might just provide the opportunity he's been looking for.
Q: Is Anthony Rizzo going back to the Chicago Cubs?
No, reports of a Cubs return stemmed from a parody social media account. While beloved in Chicago, Rizzo remains a free agent exploring his options, and the Cubs appear set at first base.
Q: Why would the Yankees be interested in Rizzo now?
Injuries to primary DH Giancarlo Stanton and backup concerns at first base create a need. Rizzo offers experienced depth, potential power from the left side, and valuable veteran leadership for a team with championship aspirations.
Q: What are Rizzo's ties to the Cubs?
Rizzo played for the Cubs from 2012-2021, was a 3-time All-Star, 4-time Gold Glove winner, and a key player and leader on the 2016 World Series championship team.
Anthony Rizzo's free agency is a situation to watch, as his potential signing could impact a contending team like the Yankees.
Be cautious of rumors, especially on social media; the recent Cubs "news" was confirmed as parody.
Rizzo's situation highlights the challenges veteran players face balancing declining performance with a desire to continue playing.
His enduring connection to the Cubs fanbase underscores the impact key players have on a team's history and identity.
Where do you think Anthony Rizzo will land for the 2025 season? Could he help the Yankees fill the gap left by Stanton's injury? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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Cubbies Crib: Former Cubs' hero may have 2025 return in sight following Giancarlo Stanton injury{:}
EssentiallySports: Fact Check: Is Anthony Rizzo Really Going Back to Chicago Cubs? Exploring Viral Tweet
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