18.6 C
Los Angeles
Saturday, October 11, 2025

Why Did the Court Reject Journalist Mario Guevara’s Appeal?

  Key Takeaways: A federal appeals court dismissed...

Why Is Trump Sending National Guard Troops to Chicago?

  Key Takeaways: President Trump has sent 300...

Why Is Trump Sending 300 National Guard Troops to Chicago?

  Key Takeaways: President Trump has approved deploying...

Anthony Rizzo’s Struggles Continue After Spring Comeback

SportsAnthony Rizzo's Struggles Continue After Spring Comeback

In the Yankees’ clubhouse at George M. Steinbrenner Field, Anthony Rizzo was seen smiling. For the first time since his previously undiagnosed post-concussion symptoms prematurely ended his previous season, Rizzo’s name was posted in a lineup. Despite preparing for his 14th major league season, the veteran player found himself enthusiastic about playing again, months after a frightening collision with Fernando Tatis Jr.

Rizzo’s Spring Trainings Returns

After what could only be described as a woeful two months last season, Rizzo was eager to get back into the field. He expressed his excitement for the progression of spring, showing auspicious signs by hitting .389 over 15 Grapefruit League games. However, despite Rizzo’s claims of being in good health, his performance during the regular season has not matched his spring training production level.

Performance Dips in Regular Season

In a recent 4-3 loss to the Angels, Rizzo disappointed, going 0-for-4 at the plate. He also failed to manage a Luis Rengifo grounder in the eighth inning. The experienced first baseman managed to knock the ball down on a lunge, but his initial error was converted into a hit. Taylor Ward capitalized on this mistake, handing the Angels the lead with a two-run double off Clay Holmes.

Errors Piling Up

Rizzo’s recent performances have marked a perilous deviation from the first baseman’s history as a four-time Gold Glove winner. His error tally has already reached three, tying for the second-highest among first basemen. More concerning is that Rizzo has notched zero Outs Above Average this season, a stark contrast from the seven outs he managed over 99 games last year.

In addition to the defensive concerns, Rizzo’s offense has suffered as well. Entering a recent game, his slash line was .245/.310/.370. With merely seven home runs and 25 RBI to his name, Rizzo’s wRC+ sits just under league-average at 99.

The Road Ahead

Despite these struggles, Rizzo is still a vital part of the Yankees’ squad. The club has limited alternatives at first, so the lefty hitter has ample time to recuperate his form. The Yankees also hold a $17 million club option for Rizzo, which comes with a $6 million buyout.

One silver lining for the Yankees is the return of DJ LeMahieu from the injured list. This move provides them with a seasoned backup first baseman for the first time this season.

Domínguez Returns to the Outfield

In another development, Jasson Domínguez returned to the outfield, playing five innings for the Double-A Somerset Patriots. Known as “The Martian,” Domínguez had been absent from the field since last September due to UCL surgery.

Smith Assigns to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre

Lastly, to make space for LeMahieu, Yankees’ infielder Kevin Smith accepted an outright assignment to the minor leagues, specifically Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Initially, he chose free agency over this assignment but then decided to accept it. This shift to the Triple-A roster follows a short stint on the major league roster.

Despite the struggles of some key players, the Yankees are managing their roster carefully, hoping to strike the right balance as they navigate through the season. Only time will tell if these decisions will pay off and lead the team towards progress and success.

(Source: www.digitalchew.com)

Meta description:”Explore the latest on Anthony Rizzo’s continued struggles after his spring comeback, and the Yankees’ tactical roster adjustments. Stay updated on MLB happenings at Digital Chew. Read now!”

Check out our other content

Most Popular Articles