New York Yankees fans have been clamoring for a shakeup, and now it’s finally happening! The team is preparing for a major roster overhaul, and Anthony Rizzo is set to play a pivotal role in this new chapter. After the Yankees’ loss to the Cardinals on Saturday, manager Aaron Boone announced that Rizzo is ready to make his long-awaited return. The star first baseman has been sidelined for nearly three months due to a freak injury that fractured his right forearm. But now, with medical clearance in hand and a successful minor league rehab stint behind him, Rizzo is back in action. He was even seen enjoying the US Open with teammate Aaron Judge, a clear sign he’s eager to get back on the field.

Rizzo’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the Yankees, who have been struggling offensively. However, Boone still had to make some tough decisions. To make room for Rizzo, the team sent rookie Ben Rice down to Triple-A. Rice showed flashes of brilliance when he was first called up, especially with his standout performance against the Red Sox in July, where he smashed three homers. But consistency is key, and unfortunately, Rice couldn’t maintain that level of play. His recent slump made it clear that a change was needed.

As the Yankees gear up for the final stretch of the season, Rizzo’s return brings a renewed sense of hope and energy to a team that desperately needs it. With a revamped roster and Rizzo back at first base, fans are eagerly watching to see if this shakeup can reignite the Yankees’ push for a playoff spot.

Anthony Rizzo making a much-awaited return to the Yankee lineup

Anthony Rizzo’s comeback couldn’t have come at a better time—given that the team wants to boost their offense. And, Rizzo is more than excited about his return to the lineup! When asked about his potential comeback at the club and his contract for 2025, Rizzo wasn’t hesitant to express all his feelings. Anthony Rizzo said, “I love being a Yankee, there’s no place I’d rather be playing than in New York in the Bronx.” However, his rehab stint has been far from perfect! 

Anthony Rizzo’s rehab stint at the Double-A Somerset was lackluster. He went just 2-for-11 with a homer, but manager Boone isn’t too concerned. He’s seen enough during Rizzo’s recovery to believe in him. Boone said, “He racked up a lot of volume the last few weeks.” Aaron Boone had to make the tough decision of removing Ben Rice to get the four-time Gold Glove winner back, but Rice’s performance is something the team couldn’t ignore. 

In the two months, Rice’s only managed a .112 batting average of .443 OPS, and just three home runs. However, despite his struggling performance, he remains a promising candidate for the team as they look at their aging infield. Moreover, Rice has shown major potential in the minor leagues, so the team will not be giving up hope on him anytime soon. 

Yankee inconsistency continues with a loss against the Cardinals 

The New York Yankees surely had their glory moments this year and are in a great spot altogether. But, consistency—now that’s questionable! After a rollercoaster ride, in the last couple of games, they have fallen into a spiral again. The game with the Washington Nationals in the series finale was brutal for them and the Yankees suffered a 5-2 loss. Things went south soon because the Nationals managed to score two runs in the first two innings. But that was not all!

The Yanks were looking forward to a showdown with the St. Louis Cardinals. And if one were to look at stats, the Yanks winning was all in the cards, since the Cardinals never won against them in their stadium. But well, expect the unexpected–because the Cardinals walked away with a historic win, pulling off an edge-of-seat 6-5 win. The last time the Cardinals won in the Bronx was during the 1964 World Series! And despite a late-game push led by Giancarlo Stanton’s three-run double, the Yankees couldn’t complete the comeback. The Cardinals stood their ground, and Ryan Helsley struck out Austin Wells to seal their first win in the Bronx in 60 years. 

In the next game, the Yankees will face the Baltimore Orioles in the American League East. With the new lineup, the team will look toward finishing strong. The next few weeks are crucial for them as they are looking to secure a place in the postseason and also possibly clinch the AL East Crown. Do you think this lineup and Anthony Rizzo will help the team? Let us know!