He yankees We haven’t announced their 2024 ALDS roster against the Kansas City Royals yet, but now we know Antonio Rizzo won’t be in it.
The Yankees first baseman told reporters Friday that he won’t be on the roster after he tried to swing and squeeze a glove and felt like he wasn’t where he needed to be. He didn’t think he could contribute to the team at the level they need in the ALDS on the offensive or defensive end.
“I feel a lot better than I did six days ago, but… stripping it down, I couldn’t be my best defensively or offensively,” Rizzo told the media. including Greg Joyce. “I had to be honest with myself.”
Of course, this decision stems from Rizzo breaking two fingers after being hit by a pitch on the final series of the regular season against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Manager Aaron Boone I was hoping Rizzo could be available for the ALDS as he alluded to it 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 most likely be on the roster as the team’s first baseman.
It should be noted that jon berti He also was working 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 to be ready for.
The Yankees’ first game against the Royals is scheduled for Saturday.