There is a chance that a beloved former member of the Chicago Cubs could enter the open market this winter.
Former Cubs All-Star first baseman Anthony Rizzo is currently with the New York Yankees, but the club has a team option for the 2025 season worth $17 million. Injuries have significantly impacted his time with the Yankees, and it seems like a near guarantee that the team will decline the option sending Rizzo to free agency.
If this ends up becoming a reality, Rizzo is projected to get a deal worth about $4.8 million over two years, according to Spotrac.
Rizzo spent his rookie season with the San Diego Padres in 2011 but then spent the next nine-plus seasons of his career with the Cubs. He developed into a star in Chicago and earned three All-Star nods from 2014 through 2016. He also earned four Gold Glove Awards as a member of the Cubs and helped lead the team to the 2016 World Series.
Chicago traded Rizzo to the Yankees in 2021, and he has been with the club ever since. But he likely will be available this winter. Could the Cubs consider a reunion? Chicago has been linked to a few upcoming free agents already, including Pete Alonso and Paul Goldschmidt.
If the Cubs fail to land Alonso or Goldschmidt, it could make some sense to bring Rizzo back. He was a fan-favorite and could bounce back if he is healthy. It sounds like he will be available, why not give him a call?
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