Yankees’ Anthony Rizzo Receives Injury Update from Aaron Boone
When will Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo return to action?
Veteran first baseman Anthony Rizzo of the New York Yankees will remain sidelined for a bit longer. Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided injury updates on several players, including Rizzo, to reporters on Saturday morning.
According to Bryan Hoch:
“Yankees injury updates: RHP Ian Hamilton is scheduled for a ‘high-intensity’ bullpen session on August 6 and still needs to face hitters in BP/games. 1B Anthony Rizzo has started swinging a bat lightly but ‘still has a ways to go,’ according to Aaron Boone. INF Jon Berti is running at about 80 percent after a July 20 PRP injection.”
Although Rizzo is a crucial presence for the Yankees, the priority right now is his full recovery. Despite his performance declining in recent years, the veteran remains an important part of the Bronx Bombers’ roster. In the meantime, rookie Ben Rice is the primary first baseman. Although Rice has faced some challenges, he appears to be adjusting to the major leagues. When Rizzo returns, he will likely share the first base duties with the 25-year-old.
Could Anthony Rizzo and Ben Rice form a future first-base duo for the Yankees?
Rizzo, 34, is close friends with Yankees captain Aaron Judge and is regarded as a leader in the clubhouse. However, his performance on the field over the past two seasons has been disappointing. Injuries have contributed to these struggles, including a delayed diagnosis of post-concussion syndrome last season. The broken forearm he suffered in June is just the latest in a series of setbacks.
Meanwhile, Rice has taken over as the starting first baseman since Rizzo was placed on the injured list. Despite hitting just .207 over 116 at-bats, Rice has shown power with seven home runs and 22 RBIs and is improving defensively as he adapts to playing first base in the majors.
Once Rizzo returns, it might be wise for the Yankees to platoon the veteran and the rookie. DJ LeMahieu is showing signs of aging, and Oswaldo Cabrera’s performance has declined after a strong start to the season. Rice has earned his place on the roster and could be a valuable asset in the Yankees’ pursuit of their 28th title. Keeping him in the lineup, even after Rizzo is fully healthy, could be beneficial for the team.
