Yankees re-sign Rizzo to 2-year deal with 2025 option
Anthony Rizzo is staying in the Bronx.
The All-Star first baseman re-signed with the New York Yankees on a two-year contract that includes a club option in 2025, the team announced Tuesday.
The deal is worth $40 million in guaranteed money, sources told YES Network's Jack Curry. Rizzo will earn $17 million in each of the first two seasons, while the $17-million option contains a $6-million buyout.
The reunion comes just a few weeks after Rizzo opted out of his previous deal. He declined the team's qualifying offer before agreeing to the new contract.
News of Rizzo's return was quickly welcomed by Yankees pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr.:
It’s a good feeling to have when you walk thru these doors with the Rizz. Welcome back !!! pic.twitter.com/cHzfZjronw
— Nestor Cortes (@Cortes_1210) November 15, 2022
Rizzo has become a rock at first base for the Bronx Bombers since they acquired him from the Chicago Cubs ahead of the 2021 trade deadline. The three-time All-Star hit .224/.338/.480 with 32 homers and 75 RBIs in 130 games for New York last season while also earning a Gold Glove nomination thanks to his usual stellar defense.
The Yankees may also be hoping his return will lure another one of their free agents back to town, as Rizzo's developed a close relationship with Aaron Judge, according to Curry.
A three-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner, Rizzo's a lifetime .265/.366/.481 hitter with 1,476 hits, 283 home runs, and 889 RBIs. The 33-year-old's been an integral member of seven playoff teams, and he helped lead the Cubs to their historic World Series championship in 2016.
The rival Houston Astros were reportedly interested in poaching Rizzo before he chose to re-sign with the Yankees.