**Veteran Anthony Rizzo’s Free Agency Stalemate: A Stand for Future Players?**
As MLB teams solidify their rosters during spring training, one notable name remains unsigned: three-time All-Star and 2016 World Series champion Anthony Rizzo. The 35-year-old first baseman, coming off two underwhelming seasons with the New York Yankees, faces an uncertain market—and his reluctance to accept a low-value deal may stem from a desire to protect future players’ earning potential.
**Why Rizzo Remains on the Sidelines**
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal suggests Rizzo is wary of setting a damaging precedent. By signing a minimal contract (e.g., a $2 million deal), he could inadvertently lower the bar for older, corner-infield veterans in future negotiations. This mindset aligns with a broader ethos among star players, like Juan Soto, who prioritize preserving market value for the next generation over quick paydays.
**Rizzo’s Career Crossroads**
With $132 million earned over 14 seasons (Cubs, Yankees, Padres), Rizzo isn’t chasing another long-term contract. However, he appears unwilling to settle for a backup role or a minor-league invite. Instead, he’s banking on a team’s desperation—likely triggered by a significant injury to a starting first baseman—to secure a one-year MLB deal. Recent close calls, like Bryce Harper’s near-injury from a hit-by-pitch, highlight the slim margin for error in Rizzo’s strategy.
**2024 Struggles Cast a Shadow**
Rizzo’s free agency stock dipped after a dismal 2024 campaign. A wrist injury in June sapped his power (zero homers post-injury), his elite defense regressed, and he went 0-for-10 in the playoffs. While his leadership and pedigree (four Gold Gloves, .805 career OPS) still hold value, his recent performance raises questions about his ability to rebound.
**The Bigger Picture**
Rizzo’s standoff reflects a growing trend of veterans refusing to “sell low,” even at the risk of sitting out. Whether his patience pays off—or backfires—could influence how aging stars navigate free agency in an era increasingly dominated by cost-conscious teams and analytics-driven valuations. For now, Rizzo’s next chapter hinges on a contender’s misfortune—and his willingness to bet on himself one more time.
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