How long until Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo returns to the team?
Via Bryan Hoch:
“Yankees injury updates: RHP Ian Hamilton to throw a ‘high-intensity’ bullpen on August 6, but still needs to face batters in BP and games. 1B Anthony Rizzo has been swinging gently but’still has a ways to go,’ according to Aaron Boone. INF Jon Berti is sprinting at about 80 percent after a PRP injection on July 20.”
As essential as Rizzo is to the Yankees, the focus right now must be on his return to full vigor. Despite his declining effectiveness in recent years, the veteran remains an important member of the Bronx Bombers’ lineup. Ben Rice, a rookie, is now the primary starting at first base. Rice has experienced occasional slumps but appears to be adjusting well to the major leagues. When Rizzo returns, he’ll likely share the role with the 25-year-old.
Anthony Rizzo, Ben Rice to form future tandem at first base for Yankees?
Rizzo, 34, is close pals with Yankees captain Aaron Judge and is regarded as another locker-room leader. However, his performance on the field over the last two seasons has left much to be desired. Injuries have played a role in those issues, as the New York medical staff took more than two months to identify Rizzo with post-concussion syndrome last season. The broken forearm he suffered in June is just the most recent addition to his seemingly endless litany of ailments.
Meanwhile, Rice resumed his rise to the majors immediately after Rizzo was placed on the injured list. Since then, he has taken over the starting first base position as the team searches for a long-term answer. Currently, the former catcher is hitting.207 in 116 at-bats, but he has seven home runs and 22 RBI. Furthermore, he’s improving defensively, as the former 12th round choice becomes more comfortable with the subtleties of playing first base in the majors.
Once Rizzo returns, it would make more sense for the team to platoon the veteran and the rookie. DJ LeMahieu’s performance has deteriorated as he ages, and Oswaldo Cabrera has struggled following a promising start to the season. Rice is absolutely deserving of his present roster status and might help the Yankees win their 28th championship. Why not keep giving him a shot even once Rizzo is back to 100%?
