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The New York Yankees are leaving the door open for an Anthony Rizzo return in the ALDS, even if it is unlikely.
The veteran first baseman suffered two fractured fingers during the team’s Saturday matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates. While he could have been placed on the 10-day injured list, the team elected to keep him on the active roster in case he recovers in time.
Despite this, manager Aaron Boone did admit that that was not a likely scenario.
“I don’t necessarily expect him for the division series,”Boone said, per Jorge Castillo of ESPN. “I still view that as very much a long shot. But I think we want to see these days unfold. And see, ultimately, by the middle, end of the week, what he’s capable of doing. To see if it’s even a possibility. We felt like we could buy that time today with the roster, but I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s an indicator one way or the other.”
The Yankees elected to option reliever Scott Effross to the minors to clear a spot for Ben Rice, who will likely take over Rizzo’s spot in the lineup.
Rizzo is hitting .228/.301/.335 with eight home runs and 35 RBIs in 92 games for New York in 2024. While these stats don’t jump off of the page, he is still a reliable hitter with postseason experience that could help the team in its quest for a World Series.
Rice replaced Rizzo in June when the veteran suffered a right forearm fracture. He provided some great moments during that period and the Yankees hope he can rekindle some of that magic for the ALDS.
For now, the team will hope Rizzo is able to recover quickly and be involved in a potential title run.