Anthony Rizzo, a name synonymous with resilience, leadership, and clutch performances, has carved out a remarkable legacy in Major League Baseball (MLB). From his early days as a promising prospect to becoming a cornerstone of the New York Yankees, Rizzo’s journey is one of triumphs, challenges, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference both on and off the field. This is the untold story of the Yankees’ first baseman star—a tale of grit, heart, and an indomitable spirit that has inspired fans across the globe.
Early Life and the Road to MLB
Born on August 8, 1989, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Anthony Vincent Rizzo grew up with dreams of playing in the big leagues. A proud Italian-American, Rizzo attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where his talent on the diamond was evident early on. Opting to forgo college, he embarked on his professional baseball career after being selected by the Boston Red Sox in the sixth round of the 2007 MLB Draft. At just 17, Rizzo was a top prospect in the Red Sox organization, showcasing a blend of power and defensive prowess that drew comparisons to All-Star first baseman Adrián González.
However, Rizzo’s path to stardom was far from smooth. In 2008, while playing for the Class-A Greenville Drive, he faced a life-altering challenge: a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 18. The news was devastating, especially as his grandmother was battling breast cancer simultaneously. Rizzo endured grueling chemotherapy treatments, but his determination to overcome the disease was unshakable. On September 2, 2008, he received the life-changing news from his doctor, Izidore Lossos, that he was in remission. This experience not only shaped his perspective but also fueled his desire to give back, laying the foundation for the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation.
Rise to Prominence: The San Diego Padres and Chicago Cubs
After returning to health in 2009, Rizzo continued to climb the ranks in the Red Sox minor league system, batting .298/.365/.494 with 37 doubles across two levels. His performance earned him a trade to the San Diego Padres in December 2010, alongside prospects Casey Kelly, Reymond Fuentes, and Eric Patterson, in exchange for Adrián González. Padres GM Jed Hoyer saw Rizzo as a potential cornerstone, and he made his MLB debut with the Padres in 2011. Despite a promising start, hitting his first home run on June 11 against John Lannan, Rizzo struggled, posting a .141 batting average with 46 strikeouts in 128 at-bats. He was demoted to Triple-A but finished the season in Tucson with an impressive .331 average, 26 homers, and 101 RBIs in 93 games.
In January 2012, Rizzo was traded again, this time to the Chicago Cubs, reuniting with Hoyer, who had become the Cubs’ GM. This move marked a turning point. Rizzo’s 2012 season with the Cubs saw him hit .285/.342/.463 with 15 home runs in 87 games, earning him a spot on the 2012 Topps All-Star Rookie Team. His breakout came in 2014, when he earned his first of three consecutive All-Star selections (2014–2016). In 2016, Rizzo played a pivotal role in the Cubs’ historic World Series victory, ending a 108-year championship drought. He hit .292 with 32 home runs, 109 RBIs, and 43 doubles, becoming one of only three Cubs players to hit over 40 doubles and 30 home runs in a single season. His postseason performance, including a .866 OPS, cemented his status as a Cubs legend.
Rizzo’s accolades during his Cubs tenure were numerous: a Silver Slugger Award, four Gold Glove Awards (2016, 2018–2020), a Platinum Glove Award, and the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 2017 for his community work. His leadership and infectious positivity made him the heart of the Cubs, earning him the nickname “the teddy bear with a 12-year-old’s grin” from former manager David Ross.
A New Chapter with the New York Yankees
In July 2021, the Yankees acquired Rizzo from the Cubs, a move that brought a World Series champion to the Bronx. Rizzo’s arrival injected energy into a team chasing a postseason berth. In his first six games, he batted .400 with three homers and six RBIs, becoming the first Yankee to drive in a run in his first six games with the club. His smooth left-handed swing was tailor-made for Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, and fans quickly embraced him.
Rizzo’s 2022 season was a highlight, as he re-signed with the Yankees for two years at $32 million. On April 26, he made history with his first career three-homer game against the Baltimore Orioles, finishing with a combined 1,051 feet of home runs—the shortest total distance for a three-homer game since 2006. That year, he hit .224/.338/.480 with 32 home runs and a 131 wRC+, showcasing his power and patience at the plate.
However, injuries began to take a toll. In May 2023, a collision with Fernando Tatís Jr. during a pickoff attempt against the Padres resulted in a neck injury later diagnosed as post-concussion syndrome. Prior to the incident, Rizzo was hitting .304/.376/.508 with 11 home runs. Post-injury, his performance plummeted to .172/.271/.225 with just one home run in 46 games. The Yankees shut him down for the season in September 2023. In 2024, Rizzo faced further setbacks, fracturing his right forearm in June and two fingers on his right hand in September, limiting him to 92 games with a .228/.301/.335 slash line and eight home runs.
Despite these challenges, Rizzo’s resilience shone through in the 2024 postseason. Playing with two fractured fingers, he returned for the ALCS and World Series, batting .267 with a .721 OPS in 10 games. His teammates praised his grit, with catcher Austin Wells noting, “I can’t even believe it, to be honest with you.” However, a critical moment in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series against the Dodgers—when Rizzo fielded a grounder cleanly but pitcher Gerrit Cole failed to cover first—contributed to a Dodgers comeback. The Yankees lost 7-6, and Rizzo’s tenure with the team ended when they declined his $17 million option for 2025, opting for a $6 million buyout.
Off the Field: The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation
Rizzo’s impact extends far beyond the diamond. His battle with cancer inspired the creation of the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation in 2012, dedicated to supporting pediatric cancer patients and their families. The foundation has raised over $3 million, funding research, patient support programs, and community initiatives. Rizzo’s leadership in this area earned him the Roberto Clemente Award and recognition as a finalist for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award. His work reflects a deep understanding of the collective struggle families face, a perspective forged during his own fight against Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
For more on inspiring athlete-led charities, check out our article on Athletes Making a Difference. Rizzo’s foundation is a shining example of how athletes can leverage their platform for good.
The Free Agency Dilemma and Future Prospects
As of February 2025, Rizzo remains a free agent, a situation that has sparked debate among fans and analysts. At 35, he acknowledges the challenges veteran players face in a market increasingly favoring younger talent. “I’ve seen it the last 10 years of my career. It’s what happens to the older guys. They kind of get squeezed,” Rizzo told The Athletic. He has expressed a desire to continue playing, emphasizing his love for the game and his leadership qualities. However, he’s adamant about not signing a deal that undermines the earning potential of future veterans, rejecting league-minimum offers.
Speculation about Rizzo’s next move has linked him to teams like the San Diego Padres, where he debuted, and the Boston Red Sox, who drafted him. The Red Sox, in particular, could use a left-handed bat at first base following Triston Casas’ injury, but a reunion has been deemed unlikely. Some have suggested a return to the Cubs, where Rizzo could retire as a fan favorite. Others, like FanSided’s Jake Elman, predict Rizzo may never play again, citing his injury-plagued seasons and declining production.
For insights into the current MLB free agency landscape, visit MLB Trade Rumors for the latest updates. Rizzo’s situation highlights the broader challenges veterans face, a topic we explore in our piece on The Changing Dynamics of MLB Free Agency.
Legacy and Impact
Regardless of whether Rizzo returns to the field, his legacy is secure. A three-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and World Series champion, he has left an indelible mark on baseball. His .261 career batting average, 303 home runs, and 965 RBIs over 14 seasons reflect his consistency and power. Off the field, his foundation’s work has touched countless lives, making him a role model for aspiring athletes and cancer survivors alike.
Rizzo’s time with the Yankees, though marred by injuries, showcased his ability to thrive under pressure. His teammates, including Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Oswaldo Cabrera, have lauded his leadership, with Cabrera noting, “Rizzo was one of the guys who guided me in the right way to be a Yankee.” His infectious positivity and baseball acumen made him a locker room cornerstone, a quality that could transition into a coaching role if he chooses to retire.
For more on Rizzo’s impact in New York, read our analysis of Yankees’ Key Players of the 2020s. His contributions to the team’s culture and postseason runs are undeniable.
Conclusion
Anthony Rizzo’s story is one of perseverance, from overcoming cancer to becoming a star for the Cubs and Yankees. His journey reflects the highs and lows of a baseball career—triumphs in Chicago, challenges in New York, and a commitment to giving back. As he navigates free agency, Rizzo remains a beloved figure, remembered not only for his on-field heroics but also for his heart off the field. Whether he returns to the diamond or transitions to a new role, Rizzo’s legacy as a player, leader, and humanitarian will endure.
For the latest MLB news and player profiles, explore ESPN’s MLB section or dive into our other player spotlights at likiy.net.
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FAQs About Anthony Rizzo: The Untold Story of the Yankees’ First Baseman Star
1. Who is Anthony Rizzo?
Anthony Rizzo is a professional baseball player, known for his tenure as a first baseman for the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees. A three-time All-Star and 2016 World Series champion with the Cubs, Rizzo is celebrated for his power hitting, defensive skills, and leadership. He also founded the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation to support pediatric cancer patients. Learn more about his career in our article on Yankees’ Key Players of the 2020s.
2. What is Anthony Rizzo’s background?
Born on August 8, 1989, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Rizzo was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2007. Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2008, he overcame the disease and debuted in the MLB with the San Diego Padres in 2011. His breakout came with the Chicago Cubs, where he became a fan favorite and World Series hero. For more on inspiring athlete stories, check out Athletes Making a Difference.
3. What are Anthony Rizzo’s career highlights?
Rizzo’s accolades include three All-Star selections (2014–2016), four Gold Glove Awards (2016, 2018–2020), a Silver Slugger Award, a Platinum Glove Award, and the 2017 Roberto Clemente Award. He played a key role in the Cubs’ 2016 World Series win and hit a career-high 32 home runs with the Yankees in 2022, including a three-homer game. Visit MLB.com for his full career stats.
4. How did Anthony Rizzo perform with the New York Yankees?
Rizzo joined the Yankees in 2021 and quickly made an impact, hitting .400 with three homers in his first six games. In 2022, he posted a .224/.338/.480 slash line with 32 home runs. Injuries, including post-concussion syndrome in 2023 and fractures in 2024, limited his play, but he showed resilience in the 2024 postseason with a .267 average. Read more about his Yankees tenure in our Yankees’ Key Players of the 2020s article.
5. What happened to Anthony Rizzo in the 2024 season?
In 2024, Rizzo faced significant injuries, fracturing his right forearm in June and two fingers in September. He played in 92 games, hitting .228 with eight home runs. Despite the injuries, he returned for the postseason, contributing in the ALCS and World Series. For updates on his career, check MLB Trade Rumors.
6. Why is Anthony Rizzo a free agent in 2025?
The Yankees declined Rizzo’s $17 million option for 2025, opting for a $6 million buyout after his injury-plagued 2024 season. At 35, Rizzo faces a tough free agency market but remains open to playing, prioritizing fair contracts for veteran players. For insights into the free agency landscape, read our piece on The Changing Dynamics of MLB Free Agency.
7. What is the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation?
Founded in 2012, the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation supports pediatric cancer patients and their families, inspired by Rizzo’s own battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The foundation has raised over $3 million for research and support programs. Learn more at Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation or explore similar initiatives in our article on Athletes Making a Difference.
8. What teams might Anthony Rizzo play for next?
As a free agent in 2025, Rizzo has been linked to teams like the San Diego Padres and Boston Red Sox, though a Red Sox signing seems unlikely. A return to the Chicago Cubs, where he won a World Series, is a fan-favored possibility. Stay updated on his free agency status at ESPN’s MLB section.
9. How has Anthony Rizzo impacted baseball off the field?
Beyond his on-field achievements, Rizzo’s leadership and philanthropy have made him a role model. His foundation’s work and his Roberto Clemente Award highlight his commitment to community. Teammates like Oswaldo Cabrera have praised his mentorship. For more on his legacy, see our Yankees’ Key Players of the 2020s.
10. Will Anthony Rizzo retire soon?
While some analysts speculate Rizzo may retire due to recent injuries and his age, he has expressed a desire to continue playing. His decision will likely depend on finding a contract that reflects his value as a veteran leader. For more on veteran players’ challenges, read The Changing Dynamics of MLB Free Agency.
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FAQs About Anthony Rizzo: The Untold Story of the Yankees’ First Baseman Star
1. What inspired Anthony Rizzo to pursue a career in baseball?
Anthony Rizzo grew up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, idolizing baseball stars and honing his skills at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. His passion for the game, combined with his natural talent as a power-hitting first baseman, led him to forgo college and enter the 2007 MLB Draft, where he was selected by the Boston Red Sox. Discover more about rising baseball stars in our article on Emerging MLB Talents.
2. How did Anthony Rizzo overcome his cancer diagnosis?
Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2008 at age 18, Rizzo underwent chemotherapy while supported by his family and medical team. His determination and positive outlook led to remission by September 2008. This experience shaped his commitment to helping others, evident in his Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation. Learn about other athletes’ inspiring stories at ESPN’s Inspirational Athletes.
3. What was Anthony Rizzo’s role in the Chicago Cubs’ 2016 World Series win?
As the Cubs’ first baseman, Rizzo was instrumental in ending their 108-year championship drought in 2016. He hit .292 with 32 home runs and 109 RBIs during the regular season and delivered key hits in the postseason, including a .360 average in the NLCS. His iconic catch to end Game 7 is a Cubs legend. Read more about historic MLB moments in our Greatest MLB Playoff Moments.
4. How did Anthony Rizzo adapt to playing for the New York Yankees?
Joining the Yankees in 2021, Rizzo quickly adjusted to the high-pressure environment of New York. His left-handed swing thrived at Yankee Stadium, and he became a clubhouse leader, mentoring younger players like Anthony Volpe. Despite injuries in 2023 and 2024, his postseason grit was undeniable. Explore more about Yankees stars in our Yankees’ Key Players of the 2020s.
5. What challenges did Anthony Rizzo face with injuries in recent years?
Rizzo’s 2023 season was derailed by post-concussion syndrome after a collision, dropping his batting average from .304 to .172 post-injury. In 2024, he suffered a fractured forearm and two broken fingers, limiting his output. Despite these setbacks, he played through pain in the 2024 World Series. For more on injury impacts, check MLB.com’s Injury Reports.
6. How does Anthony Rizzo’s leadership style impact his teams?
Known for his positivity and approachability, Rizzo fosters team unity. With the Cubs, he was the emotional anchor during their 2016 title run, and with the Yankees, players like Jazz Chisholm Jr. credited him for creating a supportive clubhouse. His leadership extends to his philanthropy, inspiring teammates to give back. Learn about leadership in sports at Sports Illustrated’s Leadership Stories.
7. What is the significance of Anthony Rizzo’s Roberto Clemente Award?
Rizzo won the Roberto Clemente Award in 2017 for his community service and on-field excellence. The award recognized his work with the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, which supports pediatric cancer patients. It’s one of MLB’s highest honors, reflecting his character. For more on this prestigious award, visit MLB’s Roberto Clemente Award Page.
8. Why did the Yankees decline Anthony Rizzo’s 2025 option?
The Yankees opted for a $6 million buyout over Rizzo’s $17 million option for 2025 due to his injury-limited performance in 2023 and 2024, coupled with a shift toward younger players. This decision reflects broader MLB trends favoring cost-effective rosters. Dive into these trends in our article on The Changing Dynamics of MLB Free Agency.
9. Could Anthony Rizzo return to the Chicago Cubs?
Fans and analysts speculate about a Cubs reunion, given Rizzo’s iconic status in Chicago. While no deal was confirmed as of February 2025, his history with the team makes it a sentimental fit. A return could see him mentor young players like Pete Crow-Armstrong. Stay updated on free agency moves at MLB Trade Rumors.
10. What makes Anthony Rizzo a fan favorite?
Rizzo’s infectious smile, clutch performances, and genuine care for fans and community make him beloved. From signing autographs to hosting charity events, he connects with fans on a personal level. His resilience through injuries and cancer adds to his appeal. Explore other fan-favorite players in our MLB’s Most Beloved Stars.