Delving into the Yankees’ Strategic Choices Amidst Anthony Rizzo’s Injury

A Crucial Decision for the New York Yankees

The New York Yankees found themselves at a crossroads prior to their regular-season finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates last Sunday. The challenge? They needed to free a spot on the team roster for Ben Rice to step in as first baseman after Anthony Rizzo sustained a fracture to two fingers on his right hand on a Saturday game. The Yankees had two options: put Rizzo on the 10-day injured list or move another player from the active roster, buying time to decide Rizzo’s status for the postseason’s start.

Instead of placing Rizzo on the injured list, the Yankees opted to move another player, sending right-handed pitcher Scott Effross down to the minors. This move left the door slightly open for Rizzo’s return.

Implications of Rizzo’s Status

Placing Rizzo on the injured list would have made him a potential addition for the American League Division Series only as an injury replacement. The series’ first game is set for this Saturday at Yankee Stadium, with the Baltimore Orioles or Kansas City Royals as the potential competitors.

Post a 6-4 victory on Sunday, Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone remained uncertain about Rizzo’s participation in the division series. “I still view that as very much a long shot. But I think we want to see these days unfold… to see if it’s even a possibility,” Boone said.

Rizzo’s Injury and Recovery

Rizzo, 35, intends to undergo treatment before testing his hand later this week. His ability to play will largely depend on his pain tolerance. Rizzo, who broke his fingers when struck by a slider from Pittsburgh Pirates’ left-handed pitcher Ryan Borucki, remained hopeful about his participation in the ALDS.

Rizzo’s injury, described by Boone as a “clean break,” gives Yankees fans some hope for his appearance in the ALDS. Rizzo, holding a contract with a $17 million team option and a $6 million buyout for the next season, expressed his determination, stating, “This is what you dream of, October, just playing.”

Addressing the Rizzo-shaped Hole

This season has seen Rizzo miss over two months due to a fractured right forearm, marking his second significant injury. Despite a career-low performance this season, Rizzo remains the Yankees’ top choice for defensive first baseman.

Filling in for Rizzo, the options include veteran DJ LeMahieu, rookie Rice, and utility man Oswaldo Cabrera. LeMahieu has been on the injured list with a hip injury since Sept. 9. Boone also named outfielder Trent Grisham and infielder Jon Berti as potential replacements. However, neither has any professional experience in the position.