New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone is suggesting that Anthony Rizzo might make a comeback just in time for the team’s American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Cleveland Guardians.
According to ESPN, Boone believes Rizzo, who has been sidelined due to arm and finger issues since the summer, could potentially return for the pivotal matchups.
The Yankees will kick off the ALCS against the Guardians on Monday after successfully defeating the Kansas City Royals, even in Rizzo’s absence. Meanwhile, Cleveland advanced after a five-game series against the Detroit Tigers.
New York’s depth has been crucial in managing Rizzo’s absence, allowing the team to maintain a strong performance.
This season, Rizzo has posted a .228 batting average with 35 runs batted in. He is expected to engage in baseball activities on Sunday, aiming for a return either for Monday’s game or later in the series.
The Yankees are looking to capture their first World Series title since 2009, having rebounded impressively this year after a disappointing 2023 season.
The roster changes have seemingly energized the Yankees, with new additions like Juan Soto and Jazz Chisholm bolstering the lineup around star Aaron Judge, who set impressive hitting records this season.
Rizzo’s experience and leadership are invaluable, especially given his strong defensive skills at first base, honed during his time with the Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres. In Rizzo’s absence, Oswaldo Cabrera and Jon Berti stepped in effectively during the ALDS, helping to secure victories for New York.
