Anthony Rizzo, the 33-year-old explosive first baseman of the New York Yankees, has had an abysmal start to the 2024 MLB season. He’s hitting .231 with two home runs, 10 RBIs, and a .319 slugging percentage this year. Coming from a concussion injury, Rizzo claimed that he is fit to go.
However, early signs show that Anthony Rizzo is far from a breakout. Amid this, the Chicago Cubs have done the New York Yankees a favor by designating a notable first baseman for assignment. While the recently freed infielder has had previous connections with the Yankee organization, it remains to be seen if the club would be interested in a reunion.
Garrett Cooper Floated As Anthony Rizzo’s Replacement Candidate!
In the face of adversity, the New York Yankees might have to move on from Anthony Rizzo, who has had a terrible start to the season, just like his bestie Aaron Judge. With the duo’s offensive woes creating extra pressure on the rest of the lineup, perhaps the timing is right for the Yanks to make a move. To help their cause, the Chicago Cubs recently DFA’d first baseman Garrett Cooper. Garrett Cooper possesses a similar skill set to Anthony Rizzo, making him a natural replacement candidate. He used to be a part of the Yankee organization before the team traded him alongside Caleb Smith for relief pitcher Michael King. Notably, Cooper has had a better start with a home run and .341 OBP across 12 games with the Cubs.
While primarily a first baseman, Garrett Cooper also has experience playing in the outfield. In case of injuries or matchups that require lineup adjustments, Cooper’s ability to play multiple positions could prove beneficial to the team. Moreover, Cooper, as a free agent, is a cost-effective option for the New York Yankees to consider. Additionally, the familiarity with past associations could work in his favor as he transitions to a potential role with the highly acclaimed major league club. At 33 years old, Cooper may still have untapped potential that could be unlocked with increased playing time or adjustments to his approach. Overall, Garrett Cooper emerges as a viable external reinforcement for the Bronx Bombers to replace a struggling Anthony Rizzo at first base for the remainder of the season.
Anthony Rizzo Breakout Of Slump To Lead Yankees 4-3 Win Vs Athletics
Amid scrutiny over his form, first baseman Anthony Rizzo broke out of his slump to guide the New York Yankees to a 4-3 win over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday. In a four-run first innings for the Yanks, Rizzo contributed with a cracking two-run home run. “I’ve just got to grind through it and know that there’s a lot of baseball left to be played,” said Rizzo.
After having just one home run in 88 at-bats this season, Anthony Rizzo finally revealed his dominant side on the mound to fetch an impressive win for the New York Yankees. Besides Rizzo, his best pal, Aaron Judge, also stepped up with a multi-hit game to reignite his offensive prowess.
To stay up-to-date with the New York Yankees 2024 season, keep following Sports News International