Reports: Anthony Rizzo agrees to new contract with Yankees
NEW YORK -- The Yankees will reportedly have their starting first baseman back for at least the next two seasons.
According to The Athletic, free agent Anthony Rizzo has agreed to a contract that will pay him $17 million in 2023 and 2024. The Associated Press reported he will earn $20 million in 2025 if New York doesn't exercise its $6 million team buyout.
Rizzo, 33, had recently opted out of his contract for next season that would have paid him $16 million.
A three-time All-Star, Rizzo batted just .224 last season, his first full one with the Yankees after coming over in a trade deadline deal with the Chicago Cubs the year before, but finished with 32 home runs and 75 RBIs. While the Bombers led the major leagues with 254 home runs, just 77 were by left-handed batters.
The four-time Gold Glove winner was reportedly at the top of the World Series champion Houston Astros' offseason wish list, but will now continue to be a vital part of the Yankees lineup.
Rizzo's agreement is the first major offseason move for the Yankees, who are attempting to re-sign star right fielder Aaron Judge.