The Chicago Cubs have a gaping hole at first base. So why not consider a reunion with Anthony Rizzo?
Rizzo has more important matters to worry about right now, given he remains in the MLB Postseason with the New York Yankees. But Rizzo’s former team, the Cubs, are already making their winter plans.
Much of the Cubs retooling involved reshaping the roster after Rizzo was dealt to New York. Rizzo has a player option to test free agency after this season, especially if he thinks he can get more than the $16 million owed to him in 2023. In the end, it’s up to him.
Rizzo will be 33 years old next season. It would make sense for him to chase at least one more multiyear contract. While the Cubs weren’t willing to give him the long-term deal he wanted a few years ago, perhaps now a match makes more sense.
Could the Cubs sign Anthony Rizzo?
Jed Hoyer and Co. can take on a couple years of commitment. As long as Rizzo doesn’t want to get paid into his late-30’s, a conversation can be had. Manager David Ross even stated “there’s a big hole for me at first base,” when hinting at the team’s offseason plans.
Rizzo and Hoyer would have to make amends before he re-signed in Chicago. The Cubs made Rizzo a five-year, $70 million extension offer back in 2021 which was insulting to say the least.
“It sounds like a bad breakup and the person saying that they’re fine when they’re not fine,” Rizzo said during an interview last year on the Kap & J.Hood show on ESPN-1000. “I know it comes down to a business and when you want your cake, and you want to eat it too; that’s kind of how it seemed.”
Since then, the Cubs cut bait with a number of their stars. But next year, Hoyer insists they want to compete again. Tom Ricketts gave the go-ahead.
Rizzo should be at the top of their priority list.
