Anthony Rizzo leaves game early vs. Red Sox; injury evaluation set for Monday

Anthony Rizzo left Sunday night’s game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park due to an apparent injury.

According to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, Anthony Rizzo is dealing with a right lower arm injury. The Yankees‘ star was seen holding his right wrist after a fall. He is scheduled to undergo imaging and consult with doctors on Monday.

Yankees’ injury crisis

The Yankees are plagued with injuries, even in their minor league system, where ten prospects are currently on the injured list. Jasson Dominguez was recently placed on the 7-day IL, and now Rizzo has joined the ranks of the injured.

Yankees’ Anthony Rizzo exits after first base collision vs. Red Sox

Anthony Rizzo’s injury occurred in the seventh inning when he tripped while running to first base. With runners on first and second and no outs, Rizzo hit a grounder to Red Sox first baseman Dom Smith, who mishandled the ball. Smith then threw to pitcher Brennan Bernardino, covering first base. Bernardino’s block caused Rizzo to trip and fall hard into foul ground. Yankees manager Aaron Boone and an athletic trainer checked on Rizzo before he left the game, replaced by pinch-runner Oswaldo Cabrera.

Despite the game being close at that point, the Red Sox went on to win 9-3, with nine stolen bases against the Yankees. Anthony Rizzo’s diagnosis is a right lower arm injury, and he is scheduled for further tests, including an MRI, on Monday.

Anthony Rizzo’s numbers in 2024

Anthony Rizzo’s season has been challenging. He is batting .223 with a .630 OPS in 70 games and recently had a rough stretch, going 1-for-29 in early June and 13-for-89 from mid-May to early June. He was also benched for two straight games last week.

Following Anthony Rizzo’s injury, DJ LeMahieu moved to first base, with Cabrera taking over at third. If LeMahieu remains at first, the Yankees might recall Oswald Peraza, although he has struggled this season, batting just .169 with a .528 OPS in 24 games after dealing with a shoulder strain during spring training.

Last year, Anthony Rizzo played with undiagnosed post-concussion symptoms, which effectively ended his season on August 1. Now, at 34, Rizzo is in the final guaranteed year of his Yankees contract, with a club option for $17 million or a $6 million buyout.

Anthony Rizzo’s injury adds to the Yankees’ woes, who despite holding a first-place standing, are facing significant challenges with their roster. The team’s depth will be tested as they navigate this latest setback and determine the best path forward to maintain their competitive edge in the league.

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