Anthony Rizzo will return to the starting lineup for the Yankees in Game 4 of the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians, the team announced Wednesday. Rizzo, who has dealt with multiple injuries this season, will start at first base and bat sixth as the Yankees look to gain a 3-1 lead in the series. His return comes after a tough defensive outing in Game 3, when he entered late in the game and struggled with a deflection off his glove and an error in the ninth inning.
Anthony Rizzo’s season defined by injuries
Anthony Rizzo’s return to the lineup is significant, but his season has been hampered by injuries that have limited his playing time. Over the past two seasons, Rizzo has appeared in just 191 games due to post-concussion syndrome, a right forearm fracture, and broken fingers.
These setbacks have affected his offensive production as well, with the 35-year-old posting a .636 OPS in 2024, far below his typical All-Star-caliber numbers. In 337 at-bats during the regular season, Anthony Rizzo hit .237, a decline from his career average.
Despite the challenges, Anthony Rizzo remains an important figure in the Yankees’ lineup, especially in the postseason. In Game 2 of the ALCS, he delivered a key double that helped propel New York to victory, showcasing his ability to come through in critical moments. The Yankees are banking on him to contribute similarly tonight, as they face Guardians’ right-hander Gavin Williams at Yankee Stadium.
Uncertainty looms over Anthony Rizzo’s future with the Yankees
While Anthony Rizzo’s immediate focus is on helping the Yankees advance in the postseason, questions about his future with the team linger. The two-year, $40 million contract Rizzo signed with New York before the 2023 season includes a $17 million team option for 2025, a decision the Yankees are expected to make this offseason. Given Rizzo’s injury history and declining performance, the team is likely to decline the option, according to a report from Bleacher Report.
The report notes that Anthony Rizzo has been unable to maintain consistent playing time due to his health issues, making the $17 million price tag difficult for the Yankees to justify. Over the last two seasons, he has missed significant time, and while he has been a veteran presence in the clubhouse, the team may opt for a younger, more reliable option at first base.
However, there remains a possibility that Anthony Rizzo could return on a reduced contract, depending on how the offseason negotiations play out. If the Yankees decide to move in a different direction, this postseason could mark the end of Rizzo’s tenure in New York. The three-time All-Star and 2016 World Series champion with the Chicago Cubs may find himself with a different team next season if the Yankees decline his option.
Yankees make other lineup adjustments for Game 4
In addition to Anthony Rizzo’s return, the Yankees have made several other changes to their lineup for Game 4. Austin Wells will start behind the plate, moving back into the lineup after Jose Trevino’s start in Game 3. Wells, a rookie, will bat eighth as the Yankees aim to balance their offense against the Guardians’ pitching. Alex Verdugo, another key player, will start in left field and bat ninth.
The Yankees’ pitching situation is also notable heading into tonight’s game. Luis Gil will take the mound for his first-ever postseason start. The Yankees’ bullpen has been heavily relied upon in this series, with key relievers like Luke Weaver, Clay Holmes, and Tommy Kahnle shouldering much of the workload. The return of Rizzo and the lineup changes could help support the pitching staff, which is expected to see plenty of action again tonight.
What’s at stake
First pitch for Game 4 is scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET at Yankee Stadium. With a 2-1 series lead, the Yankees have an opportunity to take a commanding advantage in the best-of-seven series. A win tonight would push them one step closer to the World Series, while a loss would allow Cleveland to tie the series. For Rizzo, this game offers a chance to make an impact and remind the Yankees of his value as both a player and a leader, as uncertainty about his future looms.
Whether or not Anthony Rizzo remains with the Yankees after this postseason, his contributions will be critical as the Bronx Bombers fight to keep their World Series hopes alive.
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