Anthony Rizzo’s comeback to the Yankees lineup, occurring just over two weeks after he fractured the fourth and fifth fingers on his right hand, began positively but raised some concerns. In Monday’s 5-2 victory over Cleveland in Game 1 of the ALCS at Yankee Stadium, Rizzo was substituted at first base by Oswaldo Cabrera as the game entered the top of the ninth inning.
Despite Rizzo stating that he experienced no problems with his hand, manager Boone explained that Rizzo was taken out because “he was just kind of physically and emotionally spent late in the game” after being sidelined for more than two weeks.
rizzo-91630061.jpg?w=1024″ alt=”New York Yankees’ Anthony Rizzo hitting a single during the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 1 of the 2024 ALCS at Yankee Stadium” class=”wp-image-33599631″ srcset=”https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 4311w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=300,209&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=768,534&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=1024,713&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=1536,1069&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=2048,1425&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=846,589&quality=75&strip=all 846w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=713,496&quality=75&strip=all 713w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=576,401&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=440,306&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=405,282&quality=75&strip=all 405w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91630061.jpg?resize=180,125&quality=75&strip=all 180w, https://nypost.
JASON SZENES/NEW YORK POST
Anthony Rizzo made his return to the Yankees lineup for Game 1 of the ALCS. The team, along with Rizzo, will evaluate his hand on Tuesday to decide whether he can remain in the lineup. Fortunately, the first baseman showed promising results after not facing live pitching since sustaining the injury just before the regular season concluded.
In his first at-bat, Rizzo hit a single to center field and later walked during a three-run second inning. He displayed solid defense until the eighth inning when he failed to field a grounder from Brayan Rocchio with one runner on base and one out.
The ball rolled into right field, allowing Steven Kwan to drive in a run and narrow the Yankees’ lead. However, Luke Weaver managed to halt the momentum, and the Yankees secured a victory.
Prior to the game, Rizzo admitted he would likely experience some discomfort, yet he remained optimistic that the game’s atmosphere would help him push through it.
“The 50,000 fans in the stands, the adrenaline, and the significance of the game will overshadow any pain I may feel,” Rizzo stated.
his strategy paid off.
“I thought he performed well,” Boone remarked, “which was really encouraging to see.”
The Yankees navigated the ALDS successfully without Rizzo, defeating Kansas City thanks to the strong performances of Cabrera and Jon Berti, who both excelled at first base and delivered solid at-bats.
Nevertheless, the Yankees opted to activate Rizzo, despite his lack of exposure to live pitching during his rehab process; he had only been hitting off high-velocity pitching machines and the Trajekt device, which replicates the pitches of actual major league pitchers.
“His conviction and the trainers’ assessment that he was in a good place influenced the decision to activate Rizzo,” Boone commented. Rizzo had been struck by a pitch on his right hand on September 28, which resulted in broken fingers that typically require three to four weeks for recovery.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.5508474576271;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="33599632" width="915" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?w=1024" alt="New York Yankees Anthony Rizzo playing first base with wrapped hand in game one of ALCS series against Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium" class="wp-image-33599632" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 4653w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=300,193&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=768,495&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=1024,660&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=1536,990&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=2048,1320&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=878,566&quality=75&strip=all 878w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=744,480&quality=75&strip=all 744w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=576,371&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=440,284&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=424,273&quality=75&strip=all 424w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/new-york-yankees-anthony-rizzo-91629731.jpg?resize=180,116
Anthony Rizzo was taken out of the game in the late innings. JASON SZENES/NEW YORK POST
Rizzo was not placed on the injured list, but he admitted that he wasn’t fully healed to be included in the ALDS roster.
On Sunday, Boone stated that Rizzo was “adamant” regarding his readiness. On Monday, Rizzo had a brace constructed with extra padding to fit into his glove.
Having returned from a fractured forearm that sidelined him for two and a half months on September 1, Rizzo posted a .660 OPS with no home runs over 22 games.
In his last eight games, he performed significantly better, posting a .962 OPS; however, he won’t have the same opportunity this time to find his offensive rhythm.
The Yankees appreciate the defensive skills and veteran leadership he offers on the field. He is one of the only two active Yankees who have clinched a World Series title (the other being Juan Soto), and Rizzo understands what it takes to win at this crucial juncture, irrespective of his physical condition.
For the 35-year-old Rizzo, who has a $17 million team option for the next year or a $6 million buyout, returning to the roster was evidently important. He aims to chase another World Series title after his victory with the Cubs in 2016.
“Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to participate in a fair amount of postseason baseball, and this is what it’s all about,” Rizzo remarked. “Time is ticking for me as I grow older. You never know when you might get another shot at competing for a pennant. None of this can be taken for granted.”
— Additional reporting by Greg Joyce
Anthony Rizzo Returns to Yankees Lineup in ALCS, But Questions About His Health Remain
Overview of Anthony Rizzo’s Situation
Anthony Rizzo, the star first baseman for the New York Yankees, has made a much-anticipated return to the lineup during the American League Championship Series (ALCS). His presence is crucial for the Yankees as they aim for a deep postseason run. However, lingering questions about his health—specifically his back issues—create uncertainty among fans and analysts alike.
Rizzo’s Health Concerns
In recent weeks, Rizzo has battled significant health challenges, particularly related to his back. These issues have raised eyebrows, leading to speculation about his effectiveness on the field. Here are some key points regarding his health:
- Initial Injury: Rizzo initially experienced discomfort in late July, which led to his subsequent placement on the injured list.
- Recovery Process: After undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, Rizzo has been cleared to play, but doubts persist about his full recovery.
- Performance Impact: Analysts are concerned that his health may affect his power hitting and fielding ability, two critical aspects of his game.
Impact on the Yankees’ ALCS Strategy
Rizzo’s return comes at a pivotal moment for the Yankees, who are looking to capitalize on their playoff opportunities. His experience and skill set provide several advantages, but the team must also navigate the potential risks associated with his health.
Key Factors Influencing the Yankees’ Strategy
1. **Batting Order Optimization:**
– Rizzo’s left-handed bat can balance the Yankees’ lineup, especially against right-handed pitchers. Positioning him correctly in the batting order may maximize offensive production.
2. **Defensive Stability:**
- His defensive prowess at first base is vital for anchoring the infield. If he is not at 100%, the Yankees might explore alternative defensive alignments to mitigate risks.
3. **Managing Playing Time:**
– The Yankees may limit Rizzo’s playing time to prevent overexertion. Strategic substitutions or designated hitter roles could keep him fresh for crucial games.
Statistics and Performance Metrics
To understand Rizzo’s potential impact, it’s essential to analyze his recent statistics and performance metrics. Here’s a brief overview of his contributions prior to the injury:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 120 |
| Batting Average | .265 |
| Home Runs | 25 |
| RBIs | 82 |
| On-Base Percentage | .346 |
These statistics indicate that Rizzo was having a productive season, further emphasizing the importance of his return to the Yankees’ lineup.
Benefits of Rizzo’s Return
The benefits of Rizzo’s return extend beyond statistics and can significantly influence the Yankees’ chances in the ALCS:
- Leadership and Experience: Rizzo’s experience in high-pressure situations can provide guidance to younger players on the team.
- Boosting Team Morale: His presence is likely to uplift the team’s spirit, which is crucial during the postseason.
- Strategic Advantage: Facing opposing pitchers with Rizzo in the lineup can force them to alter their strategies, potentially creating favorable matchups for other hitters.
First-Hand Experience: Rizzo’s Mindset
Rizzo’s mindset heading into the ALCS is also an important aspect to consider. His approach to overcoming adversity can be inspiring to both fans and teammates. Here’s what he has said regarding his health and return:
“I’ve worked hard to get back on the field. I’m focused on helping my team win, and I know we have what it takes to go all the way.”
This statement reflects his determination and commitment to contributing to the Yankees’ success, despite his ongoing health concerns.
Fan Reactions and Community Sentiment
The return of a player like Rizzo always elicits strong reactions from fans. Social media platforms have been buzzing with opinions and sentiments regarding his comeback and health status:
- Optimism: Many fans are excited about Rizzo’s return, believing it could be a game-changer for the Yankees.
- Concern: Some fans remain apprehensive about his health, questioning whether he can perform at an elite level.
- Support: There’s a strong sentiment among fans expressing support and encouragement for Rizzo, highlighting his importance to the team.
Case Studies: Previous Player Returns
Analyzing past instances where players returned from injury in the postseason can provide insight into what Rizzo might experience. Here are a couple of notable examples:
| Player | Year | Performance | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Wright | 2015 | Batting Average: .200 | Limited Effectiveness |
| Yadier Molina | 2019 | Batting Average: .250 | Provided Defensive Stability |
These case studies highlight that returns from injury can yield mixed results. While some players struggle to regain their form, others find ways to contribute significantly despite health challenges.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
As Rizzo makes his return, fans and analysts can benefit from keeping the following tips in mind:
– **Monitor Rizzo’s Performance:** Pay attention to his at-bats and defensive plays to gauge his health and effectiveness.
– **Consider Rotational Adjustments:** Be aware of how the Yankees may adjust their lineup based on Rizzo’s health.
– **Stay Updated on Injury Reports:** Regularly check news sources for updates on his condition, as this will affect his playing time and performance.
Conclusion
Anthony Rizzo’s return to the Yankees’ lineup amid health concerns is a compelling storyline in the ALCS. While his experience and skills are invaluable, the uncertainty surrounding his back issues presents both challenges and opportunities for the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Rizzo performs in this critical stage of the season, as his contributions could very well determine the Yankees’ fate in the postseason.
