The New York Yankees’ reliable first baseman, Anthony Rizzo, went down with an arm fracture injury in June and recently commenced a rehab assignment. While Rizzo is inching closer to a return, his contract is set to expire next off-season, with the Yanks unlikely to exercise his club option for 2025.
That being said, the New York Yankees would need a solid bat at first base to replace Anthony Rizzo and recently, the team were linked to Toronto Blue Jays infielder who once expressed enmity towards the franchise. However, with times changing, the Jays first baseman has changed his stance and is apparently open to a union.
Vladimir Guerrero Ready To Play For Yankees Despite Scarred Family Past
Vladimir Guerrero Jr, a Toronto Blue Jays infielder, has been vocal about his feelings toward the New York Yankees in the past. He once famously declared that he would never play for the Bronx Bombers, citing his preference for Toronto and also his unpleasant family past with the franchise. His dad, Vladimir Guerrero Sr, was rejected by George Steinbrenner in 2004 which forced him to sign for Angels. Hence, due to bad blood, Vladimir refused to sign with the Yanks. However, recent comments from Guerrero suggest a shift in his approach. In a recent interview, when asked about the Yankees and the ongoing trade speculation, Guerrero’s response was notably more measured.
He revealed that MLB is business. He has had a conversation with his family, who encouraged him to be open to any career opportunities. However, Vladimir Guerrero stated that he won’t take back what he said about the New York Yankees. “If a team picks me or if they do something, it’s because they need it, obviously, and I’ll be happy to help any team,” Guerrero said. That being said, it remains to be seen if the Bronx Bombers would be open to signing the first baseman. The franchise has always had players who were committed to serving the club with utmost sincerity and honesty. Hence, for Ha Steinbrenner to agree to bring on board someone who isn’t keen on playing for the esteemed club does not seem fair to many players who have been denied an opportunity in the past. Overall, Guerrero’s market value remains high, given his potential at a young age.
Anthony Rizzo Seeks 2025 Club Option Amid Uncertainty
Meanwhile, Anthony Rizzo is currently playing a rehab assignment with Double-A Somerset Patriots and is likely to be activated by this weekend. That being said, Rizzo has already lost two months of the 2024 season, which also happens to be his walk year. He has a club option for 2025, which is up for discussion.
However, Anthony Rizzo wants to continue being a Yankee will accept a club option if the New York Yankees choose to offer it. “I love being a Yankee, there’s no place I’d rather be playing than in New York in the Bronx,” Rizzo said. However, the Yankee front office will be prioritising Juan Soto which may lead to multiple sacrifices.
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