Yankees sign Anthony Rizzo, out of Freddie Freeman sweepstakes

The New York Yankees reportedly agreed to terms with first baseman Anthony Rizzo on Tuesday night.

The New York Yankees found their shortstop and third baseman in Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Josh Donaldson, respectively, in one trade with the Minnesota Twins. That left first base as a position that still needed to be addressed for New York. Freddie Freeman was available after the Atlanta Braves traded for his replacement in Matt Olson. New York did so on Tuesday night by bringing back a familiar face.

According to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, the Yankees have agreed to terms with Anthony Rizzo on a new contract, pending a physical. Rizzo is receiving a two-year deal, worth $32 million, with an opt out after the first year.

Yankees bring back Anthony Rizzo, out of Freddie Freeman sweepstakes

What is important, as Rogers mentions in the tweet above, that Rizzo can choose to opt out after the 2022 season. If he does have a strong campaign with the Yankees, he could very well decide to hit free agency again.

Additionally, MLB Network’s Jon Heyman tweeted out that the Yankees had the “clear impression” that Freeman preferred not to come to New York.

One of the Yankees’ big moves at the trade deadline last season was Rizzo, whom they acquired for prospects Kevin Alcantara and Alexander Vizcaino. Rizzo provided a boost to New York’s batting order, which played a role in the team earning a postseason berth.

During his 49 game stint with the Yankees this past season, Rizzo slashed .249/.340/.428 while recording eight home runs, 21 RBI, 32 runs and 43 RBI.

With Rizzo now off the board to return to the Bronx, all eyes will now be on where Freeman ultimately ends up. Teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays have all been linked to the former longtime Braves first baseman.