The New York Yankees have little time to move on from the 2024 World Series defeat against the Los Angeles Dodgers as the front office has the shortest off-season time frame in the past 15 years. In two months, spring training will begin, leaving little time to navigate the expiring contracts.
Needless to say, Juan Soto will top the free agency priority list not just for the New York Yankees but for several big-spending teams. Meanwhile, the Bronx Bombers have already begun writing off money from the books as they announced a big decision on the veteran first baseman’s option for the 2025 season.
Yankees Let Anthony Rizzo Walk To Free Agency
In a startling update, the New York Yankees have declined Anthony Rizzo’s $17 million team option for the 2025 season, signaling a significant shift in their approach to first base moving forward. This decision ends, at least for now, Rizzo’s three-season tenure with the franchise, marked by power, resilience, and recent struggles due to injuries. Rizzo, who joined the Yanks at the 2021 trade deadline from the Chicago Cubs, made an instant impact with his leadership and offensive production. However, his performance was marred by a series of injuries that stifled his consistency. In 2022, back issues surfaced, potentially contributing to a dip in his performance during the postseason, where he managed only an 8-for-37 batting average. In 2023, a collision with Fernando Tatis Jr. led to a concussion.
It went undiagnosed for weeks, which halted what had been a strong start to the season. This past season, Anthony Rizzo’s productivity further waned following another injury, a fractured forearm from a collision with Boston’s reliever, which sidelined him for 62 games. His return yielded modest results, with a .247 average over 22 games but no home runs. By season’s end, the power void at first base was clear. Yankee first basemen combined for only 16 home runs and a .216 average throughout 2024, highlighting the need for a strategic shift. That being said, while Rizzo remains hopeful about continuing his MLB career and has expressed his love for the Yankees and their storied legacy, the team appears ready to explore new options. Besides in-house choice Ben Rice, the team could explore more avenues in free agency and potentially invest in young talent.
Yanks Cut Ties With Injured Reliever
The New York Yankees have chosen not to exercise their 2025 club option for right-handed pitcher Lou Trivino, making the 33-year-old a free agent. This decision follows a tumultuous period for Trivino, who joined the team in 2022 in a trade from the Oakland Athletics alongside Frankie Montas.
During his initial stint with the Yankees, Trivino showcased his potential as a reliable bullpen asset. However, Trivino’s tenure took an unfortunate turn when he sustained an elbow injury in 2023 season. This injury ultimately necessitated Tommy John surgery in, sidelining him for the entire season. Furthermore, he spent the whole 2024 rehabbing and never made it to the mound.
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