Ever since the Yankees\’ season ended after the defeat at the hand of the Astros, Aaron Judge has been the center of most of the Yankees-related news. Although, another important Yankees player Anthony Rizzo has been going under the radar all this time. Recently, an MLB insider has claimed that Rizzo might get a pay rise from the Yankees in the upcoming season.
Anthony Rizzo Might Get An Extensive Pay Raise!
The New York Yankees and their general manager Brian Cashman may be focused on first baseman Aaron Judge. However, keeping Anthony Rizzo around shouldn\’t be disregarded by the team. With a. a 224 batting average, a 34% on-base percentage, and 32 home runs. And 75 RBIs, Rizzo, 33, is coming off another outstanding season. In nine games throughout the postseason, Rizzo hit.276 with a 43% on-base percentage, two home runs, and eight RBIs. The main justifications for keeping Rizzo are his consistently high offense level and Gold Glove-class defense. Also, the first base market is extremely competitive this year.
Following the World Series\’ end on Sunday, Anthony Rizzo made the decision to enter the free agent market. Prior to the start of the 2022 season, he agreed to a two-year, $32 million agreement with the Yankees. However, after another successful campaign, he anticipates a raise in compensation.
The estimated contract for Anthony Rizzo calls for him to earn $40 million over two years. An $8 million increase in income over a comparable period of time from his last deal. Given that he will reach 34 next year, it amounts to an additional $4 million every season, which is a sizable sum. However, the financial investment is worthwhile.
It would be difficult for the Yankees to find a replacement if they are unable to keep Rizzo. The only viable alternative is Josh Bell. Including 17 home runs and 71 RBIs this season, he has a.266 average and a 36.2% on-base percentage. Although his defense isn\’t his strongest feature, he\’s a powerful offensive talent who may be available at a lower price range than Anthony Rizzo.
The Yankees\’ supporters are worried about free agency in the meantime. Nine players in the Yankees\’ starting lineup were already recorded as having opted for free agency as the window opened. This includes players like Aroldis Chapman, Andrew Benintendi, Matt Carpenter, Aaron Judge, etc. Although it has not yet been verified, there are rumors that first baseman Anthony Rizzo will choose not to exercise his player option for $16 million. The Yankees are certain to lose several players during what may be the most important free agency period in the last ten years.
Also, read Yankees Put Anthony Rizzo On The Injured List! Aaron Boone Explains The Reason