Having veteran players in the clubhouse brings numerous benefits, especially when guiding younger teammates through the complexities of Major League Baseball. The Chicago Cubs are fortunate to have a few experienced players who can help mentor the next generation, and former Cubs legend Anthony Rizzo stands out as a prime example. Although Rizzo is no longer the dominant player he once was and is currently a free agent, there’s still a belief that he could be an ideal fit for several teams. One of those teams could be his former club, the New York Yankees, with Bleeding Yankees Blue advocating for his signing as a mentor.
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“Here’s the thing: Rizzo shouldn’t just fade into obscurity as a forgotten free agent,” Bleeding Yankees Blue wrote. “He deserves a proper send-off, a farewell tour with purpose, not just a nostalgic gimmick. The ideal role for him? A player-coach position. This isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about giving Rizzo a chance to contribute, lead, and still make an impact. The Yankees’ clubhouse could certainly benefit from his steady influence.”
While the Yankees, like the Cubs, are in a win-now situation, and adding a player simply for leadership may not be their top priority, Rizzo’s presence could still be valuable. However, both teams would need to recognize that his production no longer mirrors his past performances. After the worst season of his career, where he posted an 81 OPS+ and hit only eight home runs, Rizzo’s current contributions are far from what they once were, making him a negative player at this stage.
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