The New York Yankees have already lost their ace, Gerrit Cole, to season-ending elbow surgery. Now, they may also be without designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton, who could be facing a season-ending elbow injury of his own.
Stanton has been dealing with this injury for some time, and his return timeline remains uncertain. Given that, the Yankees may explore adding another bat as Opening Day approaches.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently predicted that the Yankees could turn to a familiar face, bringing back Anthony Rizzo as a replacement for Stanton while the slugger remains sidelined.
Rymer noted that there has been little movement on the 35-year-old Rizzo this offseason, though the veteran has made it clear he wants to continue playing. “Though he hasn’t been the same player since suffering a concussion in 2023, the three-time All-Star may find a fit with a team in need of a left-handed bat at first base or designated hitter,” Rymer wrote. Bold Prediction: Rizzo returns to the Yankees to help fill in for Giancarlo Stanton.
Rizzo has been clear about his desire to keep playing, and the Yankees could likely sign him on a team-friendly deal. But the question remains—would it be the right move for New York?
The answer is uncertain. Bringing in another first baseman alongside Paul Goldschmidt would give the Yankees a platoon option at first while keeping the designated hitter spot flexible—either for a first baseman or a position player needing a day off from the field.
If Stanton’s elbow injury worsens, pursuing Rizzo could be a smart move for the Yankees.
