As the Yankees shift into offseason mode, Juan Soto’s free agency takes center stage, but uncertainty looms at first base with Anthony Rizzo‘s status for 2025 still in question.

After the Yankees’ 7-6 loss to the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series, Rizzo spoke candidly about his future, signaling that discussions with General Manager Brian Cashman were forthcoming. He expressed confidence in his ability to keep contributing in key areas of the game, despite the uncertainty surrounding his next steps.

“I don’t want to take this off,” he said. “I don’t know what the future will [hold]. Talk with Cash, see what they’re thinking. We have a lot left to give in this game in a lot of different ways.”

Should Rizzo’s tenure in New York end, it would be marked by an unfortunate defensive moment on Mookie Betts’ grounder in the fifth inning, which helped fuel the Dodgers’ pivotal five-run rally. However, context is key: two prior errors in the inning had already set the stage for the defensive unraveling, spreading the blame among several teammates.

Rizzo’s postseason batting showcased his value, with a .267/.421/.300 slash line over 38 plate appearances in 10 games, underscoring his offensive reliability even as his last game featured a costly miscue.

Considering his veteran presence and playoff contributions, any conversations about Rizzo’s future with the Yankees are likely to weigh various factors beyond one difficult defensive moment in the World Series.

Ahead of Game 4 of the World Series, Anthony Rizzo showed a keen sense of awareness about his future, recognizing the possibility that his time with the Yankees might be nearing its end. He acknowledged this reality while focusing on cherishing moments with his teammates.

“I’m a realist. I’m not naive to it,” he said. “But I think all that will shape out when the time is right. It’s more just driving to the field and being with this group that means the most to me.”

Anthony Rizzo, Yankees first baseman, walks onto the field during player introductions on October 5, 2024, at Yankee StadiumNY POST

Who should replace Rizzo in the Yankees’ ranks?

The Yankees are now faced with a pivotal decision concerning Rizzo’s $17 million team option for the upcoming season. Financial experts predict that the organization may choose not to exercise the option, given its proximity to the competitive balance tax threshold and the looming financial commitment that Juan Soto’s anticipated blockbuster contract could demand.

Rizzo’s 2024 season was one of the most challenging of his career, reflected in his .228/.301/.335 batting line and eight home runs over 337 at-bats. His offensive production, measured by an 85 wRC+, ranked at the bottom among 25 qualified first basemen with at least 350 plate appearances.

Although the Yankees lack an immediate internal replacement at first base, it is plausible they could find an option capable of meeting or surpassing Rizzo’s 2024 output. One possibility includes declining his current option while exploring a renegotiated deal at a lower salary.

This decision is among several critical choices facing General Manager Brian Cashman and the Yankees’ front office following a World Series run that fell short of their championship ambitions. How the team handles Rizzo’s future could have far-reaching implications for their offseason plans and roster structure.

Evaluating Anthony Rizzo’s contract situation, the Yankees face a financial dilemma: picking up his $17 million option would effectively cost $11 million when factoring in the $6 million buyout. Although Rizzo’s performance has declined, his bond with team captain Aaron Judge and belief in his ability leave the possibility of a return, albeit slim.

Yankees face a first base conundrum between Anthony Rizzo and Ben Rice as the season nears its final and most crucial stage.
After the Yankees’ loss on Wednesday, Rizzo delayed speaking to the media for over an hour, staying in uniform. The emotional weight of potentially wearing pinstripes for the last time was palpable as he reflected on his tenure with the team.

The future of first base for the Yankees remains uncertain. Options within the organization, such as Jon Berti, Oswald Peraza, and Ben Rice, do not present an immediate answer. The potential loss of significant offensive contributors, combined with financial considerations around Soto’s anticipated contract, has raised questions about how potent the 2025 lineup will be compared to 2024. This scenario increases the need for the Yankees’ younger players to step up and develop quickly.

Rizzo’s situation reflects larger challenges the Yankees face as they plan their offensive approach and overall roster strategy for the 2025 season.