New York Yankees key baseman, Anthony Rizzo, shares an update on his back issues and also lists out his concerns for the upcoming season.
Anthony Rizzo had a terrific last season with the New York Yankees. Ahead of the 2022 opening day, Rizzo signed a two-year extension contract with the Yankees worth $32 million. And the rest is history. Rizzo went on to register his all-time career-high record of clicking 32 home runs in a single MLB season. The 33-year-old wreaked havoc at first base with ballistic performance with the bat.
However, after Aaron Judge announced his decision to enter free agency, Anthony Rizzo, Judge’s best pal, too decided to opt out of the contract. After months of reconciliation, Judge signed a nine-year contract with the Yankees. Subsequently, he followed in Judge’s footsteps and re-signed with the Yanks for a two-year contract with an option till 2025. Further, Rizzo addressed the media after reporting for spring training.
Anthony Rizzo Addresses His Back Injury Concerns
New York Yankees baseman Anthony Rizzo struggled with a nagging back niggle throughout the 2022 season. Despite the injury, Rizzo continued playing to the full of his potential. Meanwhile, the baseman reported for spring training this year and did a few practice sessions. After the session, Rizzo addressed the media and shared the latest update on his recurring back injury.
Anthony Rizzo said he spent his entire off-season recovering from a back injury. He took ample amount of rest and focused on getting back to full health. The baseman added that the back is something he will have to look after for this season as well as he expects it to resurface. The Yankee added that some issues related to his back pop up every year, and it’s frustrating. However, as of now, Rizzo is feeling good and confident for the upcoming MLB season. For him, the back injury could be concerning, given the importance of his position as a first baseman.
“It’s (back injury) just something that you have to manage,” said Anthony Rizzo.
DJ LeMahieu Has Regained Full Fitness Ahead Of Regular Season
Meanwhile, New York Yankees’ other key baseman, DJ LeMahieu, has regained fitness ahead of the 2023 MLB season. DJ missed the 2022 postseason due to a foot fracture. Further, his decision to avoid surgery forced him out of the playoff run. In the meantime, DJ reported for spring training on Thursday and did an official workout with the Yankee squad. After the session, DJ spoke to the media and shared positive updates.
DJ LeMahieu said not opting for surgery was the right decision for him, and he is happy with how things unfolded. As of now, his foot feels 100% fine, and he is excited to begin the regular season. However, his place in the starting roster is not fixed as of now, as the front office is looking to experiment a little on the first three bases. Hence, DJ will have to wait for an official confirmation till the end of spring training.
