BREAKING: Yankees Land Anthony Rizzo Replacement from Tampa Bay Rays
The Yankees are working hard to lock in outfielder Juan Soto with a massive deal, but general manager Brian Cashman also faces the challenge of addressing first base after declining Anthony Rizzo’s 2025 option. Could Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Díaz be the solution? First base was a glaring weakness for the Yankees in 2024, with five players combining for a -1.1 WAR, per FanGraphs—a mark better than only three teams: the Astros, Rockies, and Reds.
Díaz’s production dipped slightly in 2024 compared to his stellar 2023 season, when he posted a .932 OPS and won a Silver Slugger Award. Even so, his .281/.341/.414 slash line with 14 home runs and 65 RBIs over 621 plate appearances in 2024 would represent a massive upgrade for New York.
A trade for Díaz within the AL East might be possible if the Yankees offer the right package. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden suggested a deal involving prospects like Brando Mayea, a speedy center fielder, and Zach Messinger, a potential back-end starter, could entice the Rays.
Díaz would provide New York with an affordable, long-term solution at first base. He’s entering the final year of a three-year, $24 million deal, earning $10 million in 2025, with a $12 million club option for 2026—his age-34 season.