A promising talent, a guaranteed hitter, and most importantly a team player, the 2022 Anthony Rizzo was THE slugger any clubhouse would sign in a flinch. But that is not the case anymore. See, even though Rizz had a poor 2024 season offensively, his defense was always appreciated. “He has been so good since he has come back defensively,” the Yankees skipper said in Oct 2024. “He has been an anchor for our defense over there.” But could the Yankees afford to have an aging slugger who has cost them over $2 million per homer in the last two years? The answer is a big NO.

With the 2025 payroll already over $300 million, Hal Steinbrenner made his stance clear about the Yankees overspending nature. “I don’t believe I should have to have a $300 million payroll to win a championship,” Steinbrenner said. And with Rizzo by their side, add another $17 million to the 2025 payroll. No matter how good of a defensive season Rizzo had in 2024, you can not ignore the fact that the soon-to-be 36-year-old first baseman was more like a burden for Aaron Judge’s team. Because hitting just eight home runs may not justify a $17 million salary. And perhaps Rizzo also knows why the Yankees front office did not reach out to him after the 2024 season. Now, when he is a free agent, the former Yankee is not willing to sign for another clubhouse as well and he has a reason behind that.

World Series winner. 4x Gold Glove winner, 3X All-Star, Silver Slugger, and whatnot. Anthony Vincent Rizzo has won almost every big prize in baseball. But the free agency market in MLB is not so forgiving anymore, especially for veteran players. After his injury-plagued seasons, Rizzo is aware of his downfall that ultimately affects his market value. But the first baseman is not willing to sign a deal that could damage the future earnings of senior players behind him.

“Two years ago, I had kind of a weird year with the concussion,” Rizzo said to Ken Rosenthal of the Athletic. “Then last year, I was hurt twice. My power numbers dropped. I’m surprised, but not like crazy surprised just because I’m a realist in the game and you’re getting older. The fact that teams want you to play for basically league minimum ($760,000), I’m like, you guys are crazy. You’re almost trying to ruin the market for the next guy.”

So, if Rizzo does not end up in any clubhouse this year, that perhaps leaves him with the only option; retirement. When asked if he is willing to hang his cleats, the former Yankees slugger was quite clear about his next few years.

“I’ve definitely thought about it. I think I have a lot to give to the game still,” Rizzo said. “But at the same time, if teams are not going to want to pay a few million dollars for veterans, I’ve seen it the last 10 years of my career. It’s what happens to the older guys. They kind of get squeezed. You’ve seen it happen more and more. I’m not naive to it. It could be it… I want to play. I want to win. And I love talking the game with pitchers, with hitters. There’s so much to dive into. Everything that goes into it, on the field, off the field, I’ll still be talking about it with guys. We’ll just see if I continue playing.”

One thing is clear though, Anthony Rizzo wants to play in the majors, but only on his own terms. And even if he does not play the 2025 season, the 35YO slugger is still getting $6 million as a buyout from the Yanks.

On the field, Rizzo has earned his respect for his leadership and baseball acumen. His dedication to the game has never been questioned. Whereas, his philanthropy off the field leaves no doubt that he’s a man of character who values integrity.

So, Anthony Rizzo’s decision to remain a free agent begs a bigger question. What is more important than his career? Especially now, as he and his wife, Emily Vakos, prepare to welcome their first child. At this stage in his life, professional stability would seem like the natural choice.

More than a contract—Rizzo’s bigger picture

This tough call isn’t just about baseball. Rizzo’s stance goes beyond stats and dollar signs. He refuses to compromise on his worth, choosing principle over pay.

Young players look up to veterans like Rizzo. His choice could set a precedent, showing that careers aren’t always about money alone.  

Anthony Rizzo’s situation reflects a growing issue in MLB. Many veterans, like Craig Kimbrel, Dallas Keuchel, and even Hall of Famer Albert Pujols, have struggled to land fair deals. Teams now favor younger, cheaper talent, making it harder for experienced players to stay in the game. Rizzo’s stance could either challenge this trend or reinforce it. 

It should be noted that Rizzo is not the only veteran without a job this offseason. Alex Verdugo, José Iglesias, José Quintana, and Kyle Gibson are still up for grabs. Relievers David Robertson and Phil Maton are also still on the market.

For now, Rizzo’s decision has everyone waiting with bated breaths. Will he succumb to just any offer? Or will he put down his glove? Time alone will tell. But one thing is evident—Anthony Rizzo won’t settle for less than he deserves.