Yankees Move On from Anthony Rizzo as Paul Goldschmidt Takes Over at First Base**
This offseason, the New York Yankees made a significant change at first base, signing **Paul Goldschmidt** to a **one-year, $12 million deal** and parting ways with longtime starter **Anthony Rizzo**. The Yankees declined Rizzo’s **$17 million club option**, instead paying a **$6 million buyout** to release him. Now a free agent, the 35-year-old Rizzo has openly acknowledged that his career could be nearing its end, but he remains determined to continue playing.
In a candid interview with **The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal**, Rizzo expressed his desire to stay in the game:
> ***“I want to play,”*** Rizzo said. However, he admitted that injuries have significantly impacted his market value.
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### **Rizzo’s Legacy and Decline**
Rizzo, a **three-time All-Star**, **four-time Gold Glove winner**, **Silver Slugger**, and **2016 World Series champion** with the Chicago Cubs, was traded to the Yankees in 2021. Over three seasons in New York, he served as the team’s starting first baseman, but his performance dipped due to recurring health issues.
– **2022 Concussion**: Rizzo suffered a freak concussion after a collision with Fernando Tatis Jr., which many fans point to as the start of his decline.
– **2023 Injuries**: He dealt with two separate injuries last season, further diminishing his power numbers and overall production.
Rizzo reflected on his situation:
> ***“Two years ago, I had a weird year with the concussion. Then last year, I was hurt twice. My power numbers dropped. I’m surprised [by the lack of interest], but not crazy surprised. I’m a realist. Teams want you to play for basically league minimum ($760,000). You’re almost trying to ruin the market for the next guy.”***
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### **What’s Next for Rizzo?**
While Rizzo is no longer the elite player he once was, he still brings **veteran leadership** and **defensive reliability** to the table. At the very least, he could serve as a **valuable bench piece** or **mentor for younger players**. However, his insistence on playing for more than the league minimum has left him in limbo.
As for the Yankees, the addition of Goldschmidt signals a shift toward a more consistent offensive threat at first base, while Rizzo’s departure marks the end of an era for a player who once symbolized stability and championship pedigree.
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**Final Thought**: Rizzo’s career may be winding down, but his passion for the game remains undeniable. Whether he finds a new home or decides to hang up his cleats, his legacy as one of baseball’s most respected first basemen is secure.
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