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With a 6-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates, the New York Yankees capped off the 162-game regular season with a victory. The team finished with the best record (94-68) in MLB and clinched a playoff sport as well as an AL-East division title. And now the focus shifts to the postseason.

The New York Yankees will be featuring in playoffs after a season’s gap, and hence, expectations will be higher. However, ahead of the high-stake ALDS series, the team was struck with concerning injury scare that will rule their veteran first baseman out for the near future, potentially ruining Yanks playoff plans.

Anthony Rizzo Fractures His Fingers, Playoff Return Unlikely

Courtesy Somerset Patriots

The New York Yankees are cautiously keeping the door open for a potential return of veteran first baseman Anthony Rizzo in the upcoming American League Division Series (ALDS), even though the likelihood remains slim. Rizzo sustained two fractured fingers during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, casting doubt over his availability for the postseason. Though placing Rizzo on the 10-day injured list would have seemed a logical move, the Yanks have opted to keep him on the active roster, holding out hope for a quicker-than-expected recovery. However, Yankee manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the reality of the situation, suggesting that a Rizzo appearance in the ALDS is improbable. “I still view that as very much a long shot,” Boone said.

In the meantime, the Yankees made a roster adjustment by optioning reliever Scott Effross to the minors, clearing space for Ben Rice, who is expected to fill in for Rizzo at first base. Notably, Anthony Rizzo’s 2024 season has been a mixed bag statistically, as he posted a .228/.301/.335 slash line with eight home runs and 35 RBIs across 92 games. He also missed as many as two months of action with an arm fracture injury. While his numbers may not stand out, Rizzo’s wealth of postseason experience and leadership make him a valuable asset. Should he make a swift recovery, his presence could bolster the New York Yankees’ lineup in their pursuit of a World Series title. For now, the team is holding out hope that Rizzo can recover quickly enough to contribute to their postseason campaign while relying on Ben Rice to step up in his absence during the ALDS.

Ben Rice To Make Maiden Playoff Appearance For Yankees

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Meanwhile, the New York Yankees recalled prospect Ben Rice as replacement for Anthony Rizzo for the ALDS series. While Rizzo stayed on the active roster, reliever Scott Effross was optioned to minors to make space. Rice, previously replaced Rizzo when the veteran suffered at forearm fracture and delivered key performances during that stretch.

Hence, the New York Yankees are hopeful Ben Rice can replicate that success as they gear up for the postseason. In the meantime, the Bronx Bombers will take a few days off to rewind ahead of the October campaign. The ALDS series begins on October 5 at Yankee Stadium, with the Yanks likely matching up with either the Baltimore Orioles or the Kansas City Royals.