The Yankees have yet to announce their 2024 ALDS roster against the Kansas City Royals, but we now know Anthony Rizzo won’t be on it.
The Yankees first baseman told reporters Friday that he won’t be on the roster after he tried swinging and squeezing a glove and felt he wasn’t where he felt he needed to be. He didn’t think he could contribute to the team at a level that they need in the ALDS on the offensive or defensive side.
“I feel a lot better than I did six days ago, but … gutting through it, I wouldn’t be able to be my best version defensively or offensively,” Rizzo told the media including Greg Joyce. “I had to be honest with myself.”
Of course, this decision stems from when Rizzo fractured two fingers after being hit by a pitch in the final series of the regular season against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Manager Aaron Boone was holding out hope that Rizzo could be available for the ALDS, as he alluded it to being a pain tolerance issue.
The Yankees don’t have to announce their roster until Saturday, but with Rizzo declaring himself out that will mean Oswaldo Cabrera and Ben Rice — who was called up after Rizzo’s injury — will more than likely be on the roster as the team’s first basemen.
It should be noted that Jon Berti was also doing work at first base this week in anticipation of a turn at that position in the Yankees’ series against the Royals.
Whoever the Yankees choose to start at first base, Boone says he’s comfortable with the options they have on the team.
If the Yankees win their best-of-five series with the Royals, Rizzo could potentially return to the club for their ALCS series, which he hopes he’s ready for.
The Yankees’ first game against the Royals is set for Saturday.