The Toronto Blue Jays are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 season. They finished with a 74-88 record. They also missed the playoffs. As they retool their roster for 2025, they need to address their offensive struggles, particularly their lack of power. One name that has emerged as a potential fit is veteran first baseman Anthony Rizzo.

Rizzo, 35, is a free agent after the New York Yankees declined his $17 million option for 2025. He is coming off the worst statistical season of his career, slashing just .228/.301/.335 with eight home runs and 35 RBIs in 92 games. He is a three-time All-Star. He is also a four-time Gold Glove winner. He has a proven track record of success in the major leagues.  

Could Rizzo be the answer to the Blue Jays’ offensive woes? Let’s take a closer look.

Anthony Rizzo: Career Summary

Rizzo was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the sixth round of the 2007 MLB Draft. He was traded to the San Diego Padres in 2010 and made his major league debut with them in 2011. After a brief stint in San Diego, Rizzo was traded to the Chicago Cubs in 2012. He spent nine seasons with the Cubs. During that time, he became one of the best first basemen in baseball. He was also a key part of the Cubs team that won the World Series in 2016.

In July 2021, Rizzo was traded to the Yankees. He played two and a half seasons in New York, but his production declined in 2023 and 2024.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Rizzo’s biggest strength is his power. He has hit 30 or more home runs in a season four times in his career. He is also a good defender at first base, having won four Gold Glove awards. In 2016, he even earned a Silver Slugger award. However, his age and recent performance raise some concerns.  

Strengths:

• Proven Power Hitter: Rizzo has a history of hitting for power, with 303 career home runs. This could be a valuable asset for a Blue Jays team that struggled to hit home runs in 2023.  
• Solid Defender: Rizzo is a four-time Gold Glove winner at first base, demonstrating his defensive prowess.  
• Veteran Presence and Leadership: Rizzo has been a key player on winning teams. He won a World Series championship with the Cubs. He could bring valuable experience and leadership to a relatively young Blue Jays team.  

Weaknesses:

• Age and Recent Decline: At 35, Rizzo is nearing the end of his career. His performance in 2023 and 2024 was significantly below his career norms, raising concerns about his ability to contribute consistently.  
• Inconsistent Splits: While Rizzo has generally hit right-handed pitching well, he struggles with left-handed pitching. His performance against left-handers has been more inconsistent throughout his career. This could be a factor for the Blue Jays, who may need him to platoon at times.  
• Potential Injury Concerns: Rizzo has dealt with injuries in recent seasons, including fractured fingers in 2023. This raises concerns about his durability and ability to stay healthy throughout a full season.  

Analyzing the Decline and Potential for a Rebound

Rizzo’s decline in 2023 and 2024 could be attributed to a combination of factors. He suffered two fractured fingers in May 2023. This injury may have affected his performance for the remainder of the season and into 2024. Additionally, age-related decline is a natural part of a baseball player’s career. It’s possible that Rizzo’s production is starting to taper off.  

However, it’s also possible that Rizzo could rebound in 2025. He has a history of strong performance, and if he can stay healthy, he could still be a valuable contributor. The Blue Jays would need to carefully assess his health and potential for a rebound before making a decision.  

How Rizzo Would Fit with the Blue Jays

The Blue Jays have a need at first base and designated hitter. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is currently their starting first baseman, but he has expressed a desire to play third base. If Guerrero moves to third, Rizzo could be a good fit as the Blue Jays’ starting first baseman. He could also platoon with Guerrero at first base and DH.  I personally believe the Blue Jays should keep Vladdy at First Base. He is a Gold Glove-winning First Baseman. Rizzo would be a solid option as back-up and primarily as a DH.

Rizzo’s left-handed bat could also provide some balance to the Blue Jays’ lineup, which is currently heavy on right-handed hitters. The Blue Jays have built a strong defense. However, they recognize the need for more offensive production. They especially seek improvement in the power department. Rizzo’s power-hitting profile fits with the Blue Jays’ offensive philosophy. They are eager to add more home runs to their lineup. 

Rizzo as a Mentor

Rizzo could be a valuable mentor. He would guide the Blue Jays’ young core, including Davis Schneider, Addison Barger, and Orelvis Martinez. He has experience as a World Series champion and a veteran leader. This could provide guidance and support to these young players. They will develop and mature in the major leagues.  

Interest from Other Teams

Rizzo is a free agent, and there are likely to be other teams interested in his services. The Mets, for example, have been mentioned as a potential suitor. The Pirates have also been linked to Rizzo. The Blue Jays will need to be competitive in their offer if they want to secure his services.  

Impact of Rizzo’s Veteran Presence

Rizzo’s veteran presence could be a significant asset to the Blue Jays. He is known as a respected leader in the clubhouse. He has extensive playoff experience. This includes a World Series title with the Cubs. This experience could be invaluable for the Blue Jays. The team is looking to take the next step. They aim to become a consistent contender. Rizzo’s leadership could help to instill a winning culture and provide guidance to the team’s younger players.  

Contract Situation and Potential Cost

Rizzo is projected to sign a one-year contract worth around $12 million. This would be a reasonable price for the Blue Jays. It is particularly advantageous if they can utilize him in a platoon role at first base and DH.  

Conclusion

Anthony Rizzo could be a valuable addition to the Toronto Blue Jays. He would provide them with a veteran bat at first base and DH. He could also be a valuable leader in the clubhouse. However, there are concerns about his age, recent decline in production, and injury history. The Blue Jays will need to weigh these factors carefully before making a decision on whether to sign Rizzo.

Overall Synthesis

The Toronto Blue Jays have a clear need for more offensive production, particularly in the power department. Anthony Rizzo, despite his age and recent struggles, could potentially address this need as a DH and backup first baseman. His career statistics demonstrate his ability to hit for power, with 303 home runs over his career. He offers valuable experience. His leadership was crucial as he was a key contributor to the Chicago Cubs’ World Series championship in 2016.  

Rizzo’s declining production in recent years raises concerns. There are worries about his ability to contribute consistently at this stage of his career. His .228 batting average and eight home runs in 2024 are significantly below his career norms. Furthermore, his splits against left-handed pitching have been inconsistent throughout his career.  

The Blue Jays’ current roster features a mix of young players and established veterans. Rizzo’s veteran presence could offer valuable mentorship to the younger players. His offensive potential could also add depth and power to the lineup.  

Ultimately, the decision of whether to pursue Rizzo depends on the Blue Jays’ assessment of his potential contribution. They need to consider his contribution relative to his cost. They also need to check the availability of other options in the free agent market. A one-year contract at a reasonable price, as projected, could make him a worthwhile addition to the team.  

Signing Anthony Rizzo to a one-year contract could be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Blue Jays. This conclusion is based on the analysis. His veteran leadership makes him an attractive option. He has the potential for a power surge. His reasonable cost can bolster their lineup and provide depth at first base and DH.

Player	AVG	HR	RBI	OPS
Anthony Rizzo	.261	303	965	.828
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.	.282	151	514	.858