As the winter approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals are faced with a crucial decision regarding their first base position.
With the impending departure of star player Paul Goldschmidt, the team will need to seek out a suitable replacement.
This situation is further complicated by the Cardinals’ plans to reduce their payroll in 2025, coinciding with John Mozeliak’s final season as president of baseball operations.
The Cardinals are evaluating their options as they prepare for life without Goldschmidt.
They may consider internal candidates or look for budget-friendly options in the free-agent market.
One intriguing possibility that has emerged is Anthony Rizzo of the New York Yankees.
Sportsnaut’s Matt Higgins proposed this idea, noting Rizzo’s potential availability.
Higgins speculated, “Could a former Chicago Cubs icon don a Cardinals uniform in 2025? It’s a viable option.”
The Yankees are likely to activate their buyout clause for Rizzo’s contract, which would send him into free agency.
Given Rizzo’s injury-plagued season in 2024—where he posted a batting average of just .228, along with eight home runs and 35 RBIs—he might find himself seeking a one-year deal to prove himself, and the Cardinals could be a fit.
Rizzo’s recent struggles with injuries over the past two years with the Yankees raise questions about his future.
If the Yankees indeed part ways with him, projections from Spotrac suggest he could secure a contract worth nearly $5 million over two years if he enters the free-agent market.
For the Cardinals, this scenario presents an opportunity to sign a player who, when healthy, has shown significant upside.
The prospect of bringing Rizzo to St. Louis makes sense for several reasons. First, if he can regain his form, he could be an effective player for the Cardinals. Secondly, a one-year deal would allow the team to evaluate his performance without a long-term commitment, which aligns well with their plans to tighten the budget.
In addition to his experience and past success, Rizzo’s familiarity with high-pressure situations could benefit the Cardinals as they navigate this transition. His leadership on the field and in the clubhouse could provide stability during a period of change.
As the Cardinals consider their future, the potential acquisition of Rizzo would not only address their immediate need at first base but could also serve as a low-risk, high-reward move. If he can stay healthy and find his rhythm, he could once again become a key contributor.
In summary, the Cardinals face a pivotal offseason, and Anthony Rizzo could emerge as a valuable addition to their roster. As they look to rebuild and adapt, this possible signing could help them maintain competitiveness in the league while adhering to their financial strategy.
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