The New York Yankees enter the 2025 MLB season with a ton of hype, just months removed from a World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Despite losing Juan Soto to the New York Mets, expectations remain high in the Bronx. However, the Yankees also deal with key injuries to Gerrit Cole (out for the season), Luis Gil, and slugger Giancarlo Stanton.
Anthony Rizzo Mentioned as Yankees Option
No thanks to tennis elbow in both arms, Stanton has not swung a bat since mid-January, let alone partake in any competition (he is said to be dealing with a chronic calf issue). As expected, Stanton will begin the season on the injured list, but if this injury requires surgery, he could miss the entire season.
Giancarlo Stanton said his elbow injuries are “considered severe in both elbows.” He attributes it to “bat adjustments” from last season and is unsure when he will be able to resume baseball activities. If surgery is needed, he said it would be season-ending.
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) March 8, 2025
With Stanton sidelined to start the season, questions remain about whether the Yankees will bring in help to fill the void in the lineup.
Several names have surfaced, but there aren’t many viable free-agent options with the season about to start.
Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report boldly predicted that Anthony Rizzo could reunite with the Yankees.
“There’s been little action on the 35-year-old Rizzo throughout the offseason, yet he was adamant last month about wanting to continue his career. Though he hasn’t been the same player since suffering a concussion in 2023, the three-time All-Star may find a fit with a team in need of a left-handed bat at first base or DH,” Rymer wrote.
In the end, Rymer predicted that Rizzo would return to the Yankees, helping fill the void while Stanton recovers.
What Is Left in the Tank for Rizzo?
At 35 years old, Rizzo is nearing the end of his career. In 2024, he played in 92 games, hitting just .228 with eight home runs and 35 RBIs — not particularly impressive numbers.
At the end of February, Rizzo expressed his desire to keep playing, per Brendan Kuty of The Athletic.
“I’ve definitely thought about it. I think I have a lot to give to the game still,” Rizzo said.
However, he also acknowledged the challenges of finding a deal in a tough market for veteran players.
“But at the same time, if teams are not going to want to pay a few million dollars for veterans, I’ve seen it the last 10 years of my career. It’s what happens to the older guys. They kind of get squeezed. You’ve seen it happen more and more. I’m not naive to it. It could be it.”
At this point, it remains to be seen if the Yankees will make a move, but a reunion with Rizzo could make sense for both sides.