The New York Yankees will be without Anthony Rizzo for at least the next two months as the veteran first baseman deals with an arm fracture. He has been moved to 60-day IL after a collision with a Red Sox reliever at Fenway Park led to a major injury.
That being said, Anthony Rizzo’s injury has left a void at first base for the New York Yankees. Rookie Ben Rice has done a phenomenal job since making his debut. But just as every rookie, he stands at a risk of regression. Hence, the front office is expected to make a big move at the trade deadline and go after a veteran All-Star first baseman.
Yankees Might Resolve First Base Issue With Garrett Cooper
The New York Yankees are reportedly interested in acquiring former All-Star first baseman Garrett Cooper following the injury to Anthony Rizzo. Rizzo has been sidelined with an arm fracture injury, leaving a void in both the lineup and infield defensive configuration. Meanwhile, FanSided revealed that the Bombers’ front office is leading the race to acquire free agent Garrett Cooper before the trade deadline. He started the season with the Cubs before getting traded to the Boston Red Sox, and he eventually got released a few weeks after a tough 24-game tenure. However, Cooper still has the tools to make a solid impact at first base given a chance, and the Bronx might be the perfect place.
Garrett Cooper, who previously played for the Miami Marlins, has built a reputation as a reliable hitter with a strong presence at the plate. His All-Star selection in 2022 highlighted his ability to produce offensively, boasting a .280 batting average with 15 home runs and 50 RBIs that season. Cooper’s experience and performance make him an attractive option for the Yankees, who are looking to bolster their lineup amidst Rizzo’s absence. Moreover, the potential acquisition of Cooper comes at a critical juncture for the franchise. The team has struggled with consistency on the plate, and Rizzo’s injury only added to their challenges. Hence, adding Cooper could provide the necessary offensive spark and stability at first base. His versatility is another asset, as Cooper is capable of playing in the outfield, offering manager Aaron Boone more flexibility in lineup configurations.
Ben Rice Hits First MLB Home Run Vs Reds
Meanwhile, Ben Rice is forcing the New York Yankees to take notice of his talent by consistently hitting on the plate. After a series of extra-base hits, Rice finally unlocked a major career milestone after slamming his first big leagues home run on Thursday during the series finale against the Reds.
Ben Rice went yard over the right field as the solo shot travelled over 401 feet with an exit velocity of over 100 mph. Rice had a wide smile as always while rounding the bases, and his teammates hyped him up back in the dugout to celebrate the important achievement. The rookie reduced the Yankees trail to 5-2 before the Reds went ballistic to finish with an 8-4 win and swept the hosts.
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