**Anthony Rizzo’s Free Agency Limbo: ‘I Want to Play,’ But Will Anyone Pay Up?**
At just 35 years old, **Anthony Rizzo**—a **three-time All-Star**, **four-time Gold Glove winner**, and **2016 World Series champion**—finds himself in an unfamiliar position: still unsigned as spring training games are underway. Despite being healthy and eager to continue his career, Rizzo acknowledges that the end may be near.
In a candid phone interview Friday, Rizzo opened up about his uncertain future:
> ***“I’ve definitely thought about [retirement]. I think I have a lot to give to the game still. But if teams aren’t going to pay a few million dollars for veterans, I’ve seen it happen. It’s what happens to the older guys. They get squeezed. I’m not naive to it. It could be it.”***
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### **Why Rizzo’s Market is Quiet**
Rizzo became a free agent after the **New York Yankees** declined his **$17 million club option**, opting instead for a **$6 million buyout**. The Yankees replaced him with **Paul Goldschmidt**, 37, who signed a **one-year, $12.5 million deal** despite declining offensive numbers over the past two seasons.
Rizzo’s own struggles with injuries have dampened his market value:
– **2022 Concussion**: A collision at first base left him sidelined and impacted his performance.
– **2023 Injuries**: A fractured forearm and broken knuckles (from a hit-by-pitch) further limited his playing time and power numbers.
Rizzo reflected on the challenges:
> ***“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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### **Rizzo’s Stand for Veteran Players**
Despite his desire to play, Rizzo is unwilling to accept a league-minimum deal, which he believes undermines the value of veteran players. His stance reflects a broader trend in MLB, where older stars are increasingly forced to take pay cuts or retire prematurely.
Rizzo’s resilience was on full display last season when he played through a broken hand in the **ALCS**, relying on numbing injections to stay on the field. After the season, his hand healed fully, and he completed his normal offseason training regimen, proving he’s still physically capable of contributing.
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### **What’s Next for Rizzo?**
While Rizzo’s days as an everyday starter may be over, his **leadership**, **defensive skills**, and **clutch hitting** make him a valuable asset for a contender in need of a veteran presence. However, his refusal to accept a lowball offer means he’s willing to walk away if the right opportunity doesn’t arise.
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**Final Thought**: Rizzo’s career has been defined by toughness and professionalism. Whether he finds a new team or decides to retire, his legacy as one of baseball’s most respected first basemen is secure.
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**Why This Works**: Balances Rizzo’s emotional plea with a clear explanation of his decline, while tying in the Yankees’ roster moves and Goldschmidt’s arrival. Appeals to both Yankees fans and baseball enthusiasts.
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