Shocking Anthony Rizzo Update: World Series Champ Still Unsigned for 2025 MLB Season

As the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season kicks off, one name noticeably absent from any active roster is Anthony Rizzo. The 35-year-old first baseman, long admired for his leadership and impact during the Chicago Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory, currently remains unsigned—a surprising turn for a player with such an established legacy.

A Storied Career

Rizzo’s decade-long run with the Cubs showcased his consistent power at the plate and exceptional glove work at first base. He tallied 242 home runs during his time in Chicago, while posting a steady .272 batting average alongside a .372 on-base and .489 slugging percentage. His efforts earned him three All-Star nods and four Gold Glove awards, cementing his reputation as one of the game’s top two-way players during his prime.

Transition to the Yankees

The summer of 2021 saw Rizzo traded to the New York Yankees, where he remained a productive force. He made his mark in the 2022 playoffs with a .276 average, collecting 8 hits, 2 home runs, and 8 RBIs in just 29 at-bats. Unfortunately, the momentum didn’t carry over into the following seasons. A 2023 collision with Fernando Tatís Jr. resulted in post-concussion syndrome, significantly hampering both his performance and availability. Then in 2024, further injuries—a broken arm and fractured fingers—sidelined him again and hindered his postseason contributions. After the World Series, the Yankees declined Rizzo’s $17 million option, opting instead for a $6 million buyout, making him a free agent heading into 2025.

Current Free Agency Status

Despite expressing a clear desire to continue his career, Rizzo has yet to sign with a team as the new season begins. His recent string of injuries and a drop in production have likely given teams pause. Additionally, sources suggest that his current asking price may be reflective of his peak years rather than his recent trajectory, creating a mismatch in perceived value.

Market Dynamics and Future Prospects

Around the league, there’s a noticeable trend of caution when it comes to signing veteran players, especially those with injury histories. Players like Joey Gallo and Josh Bell, for instance, have taken minor league or short-term deals, illustrating teams’ hesitancy to make significant investments.

For Rizzo, this could mean reevaluating contract expectations and showcasing his health and readiness to contribute. Should injuries arise elsewhere or teams look to bolster their postseason depth, a proven leader like Rizzo—with a left-handed bat and strong clubhouse presence—could still draw interest.

Conclusion

Anthony Rizzo’s free-agent status at the outset of the 2025 season highlights the increasingly analytical and risk-averse nature of MLB roster decisions. While his career speaks for itself, the realities of age, injury, and salary expectations have complicated his path forward. Still, Rizzo’s drive and resilience could pave the way for another chapter in his career, should the right opportunity arise.

FAQs

1. Why is Anthony Rizzo still a free agent as the 2025 season starts?

Rizzo remains unsigned largely due to a mix of injury concerns, a recent decline in production, and salary expectations that may not reflect current market evaluations.

2. What were Anthony Rizzo’s contributions to the Chicago Cubs?

During his time with the Cubs, Rizzo recorded 242 home runs and a .272/.372/.489 slash line, along with three All-Star appearances and four Gold Gloves, highlighting both his offensive and defensive strengths.

3. How did injuries impact Rizzo’s recent seasons with the Yankees?

Injuries played a major role in limiting Rizzo’s output. A 2023 collision led to post-concussion syndrome, while in 2024 he suffered a broken arm and fractured fingers, both of which significantly restricted his ability to contribute.

4. Are there other veteran players in similar free agency situations?

Yes. Several veterans, including Joey Gallo and Josh Bell, have accepted lower-profile contracts, reflecting the industry’s measured approach to older players with recent performance issues.

5. What steps can Rizzo take to return to an MLB roster?

Rizzo may need to lower his contract demands, confirm his health, and be ready to fill a role when teams need experienced depth, particularly during the midseason stretch or postseason push.