Yankees First Baseman To Manage Persistent Back Issues This Season

Anthony Rizzo, who recently agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract to return to the New York Yankees, has expressed confidence in his ability to manage his ongoing back issues during the 2023 MLB season.

In an interview with The Athletic, Rizzo stated that while the back stiffness that plagued him throughout last season is no longer bothering him, he expects to have to manage it throughout the coming campaign.

Anthony Rizzo on his back issues. #Yankees pic.twitter.com/NZTc4WbDvD

— Marly Rivera (@MarlyRiveraESPN) February 19, 2023

Last year, Rizzo's back issues caused him to miss time in each of the final three months of the regular season, though this did not deter the Yankees from re-signing him.

The veteran first baseman used the offseason to focus on his recovery process, and is confident that the area can be managed with daily preparation.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone also expressed confidence in Rizzo's ability to navigate the back issue, emphasizing the importance of his daily routine and exercises to maintain his core strength.

The thirty-three-year-old didn't see a decrease in his power last season, crushing 32 home runs and 75 RBIs over 130 games. However, he posted a paltry .224 batting average.

If his power remains and his batting average increases even slightly, the Yankees will likely be happy with their recommitment to the veteran. Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports