First baseman Anthony Rizzo, 35, has yet to find a match in free agency. After a down year at the plate, largely due to injuries, the New York Yankees declined his $17 million club option for 2025 in November.
The three-time All-Star slashed .228/.301/.335 in 92 games in 2024, and his defensive abilities at first base are not what they once were. Even though Rizzo's skill set has declined significantly, could a reunion with the Chicago Cubs be possible?
Rizzo became a fan favorite during his 10 seasons in Chicago, helping the club win a World Series title over the Cleveland Guardians in 2016—its first championship since 1907. He also excelled in the regular season, posting three consecutive campaigns with a WAR of 5.6 or better from 2014 to 2016.
As things stand, the Cubs have Michael Busch and veteran Justin Turner as first base options. If Rizzo were to sign with his former team, manager Craig Counsell might find it challenging to give him consistent playing time.
A reunion with Rizzo would make sense if he were willing to serve as a bench player who provides veteran leadership to younger players. That may be his best remaining option, as it does not appear many MLB clubs have significant interest in his services.
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