Anthony Rizzo, the New York Yankees first baseman and impending free agent, is ruled out for 8 weeks following an arm fracture injury. Rizzo has been placed on 60-day IL with an undefined return timeline. Notably, the infielder has a $17 million club option in his contract.
But the New York Yankees are unlikely to exercise it, given Anthony Rizzo’s dip in form in the past two seasons. That being said, with the trade deadline approaching, four quality impending free agents and a first baseman could be available for trade. Let’s explore four such realistic options the Bombers can consider in seeking Rizzo’s replacement.
1. Pete Alonso
New York Mets superstar Pete Alonso, known as the “Polar Bear,” is one of the most prolific power hitters in baseball. His ability to consistently hit home runs would be a significant boost to the Yankees’ offense. Alonso’s present salary with the Mets is $20.5 million, and the baseman is expected to extend with the Mets next year. However, the New York Yankees can still trade him for half a season. His offensive prowess could come in handy in the postseason and also in defense; the Yanks need a solid glove at first base. Pete Alonso has all the tools to be a complete as well as a better replacement for Anthony Rizzo.
2. Paul Goldschmidt
St.Louis Cardinals’ first baseman Paul Goldschmidt is a seasoned veteran with a consistent track record of high performance. His experience would bring stability to the New York Yankees’ lineup. He is earning $26 million with the Cardinals and is likely to hit free agency in 2025. Notably, Goldschmidt hasn’t faced American League pitchers in the longest time. Hence, adding him to the roster mid-season could give the first baseman an edge over AL pitchers. Apart from his offensive skills, Goldschmidt is also an excellent defender at first base, making him a well-rounded asset.
3. Christian Walker
Arizona Diamondbacks’ Christian Walker’s relatively low salary makes him an attractive option for the New York Yankees, allowing them to bolster other areas if needed at the midseason trade deadline. While Diamondbacks view Walker as a long-term solution at first base, the Bronx Bombers can steal him during trade for the right price. Compared to Alonso and Goldschmidt, Walker has a shorter track record of success at the major league level. Yet, he has shown flashes of brilliance and has the ability to maintain a high level of play.
4. Josh Bell
Miami Marlins infielder Josh Bell is another realistic trade option for the New York Yankees at the midseason trade deadline. Bell is making $16.5 million with the Marlins and is a switch hitter. His ability to hit from both sides of the plate provides versatility and matchup advantages for the Bronx Bombers. Additionally, Bell has had strong seasons in the past, and a change of scenery could help him rediscover his best form. Hence, if the Yanks aim for a low-price, low-risk candidate to replace Anthony Rizzo at first base for the latter half of the season, Josh Bell is their guy.
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