New Yankees’ first baseman Anthony Rizzo discusses move to the Bronx

The New York Yankees shocked the baseball world on Thursday night, when they decided to make a deal for Chicago Cubs’ first baseman Anthony Rizzo. The left-handed slugger is a free agent after the season, but will take advantage of the short porch, contribute very good defense, and excellent on-base skills.

The slugger was seen taking pictures at Wrigley Field, his home for several years, with his family, soaking it in while he could. His next journey includes trying to take the Yankees to the playoffs, and there is a lot of work to do: the Bombers sit at 53-48, 8.5 games behind the Boston Red Sox for the division lead, but only 3.5 behind the Oakland Athletics for the second Wild Card spot.

“All good things come to an end,” Rizzo said to reporters in Chicago, including MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian, on Thursday. “To be able to go to another historic franchise like the Yankees, it’s unbelievable. Getting all the calls and texts, how excited they are, how excited I am. My family is all from New Jersey and New York. Emily’s family is up in Connecticut. It’s going to be a really special opportunity for me these next three months. I’m just going to enjoy it all.”

The Yankees sent the Cubs two prospects: starting pitcher Alexander Vizcaino, and outfielder Kevin Alcantara. Neither is among the team’s top five prospects, but both are very highly regarded. The Cubs will pay for the remainder of Rizzo’s 2021 salary.

Rizzo is focused on helping the Yankees

The lefty-hitting first baseman is hitting .248 with 14 home runs, 40 RBI and a .792 OPS in 92 games.

The Yankees have been active in the trade market, most recently bringing Joey Gallo to the fold.

“I’m just focused on going to be a Yankee now,” Rizzo said. “It’s just another really cool opportunity to play for another historic franchise. This will always be home for me, but like I’ve said, my best friend leaving, Jon Lester, he did the same thing. He has two special places in his heart.

“But for these next three months, it’s going to be fun. You go right into a race. Seeing the Yankees pull the triggers like this — get Gallo, me now, obviously — that’s what they do. And they’re excited.”