Anthony Rizzo Weighs Invitation to Join Team Italy for WBC
Anthony Rizzo, the former first baseman for the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs, is contemplating a return to baseball after his retirement following an injury-plagued 2024 season. According to Bruce Levine of 670thescore.com, Rizzo has been approached by Ned Colletti, general manager of Team Italy, to participate in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC).
The invitation marks a potential opportunity for the 36-year-old athlete to don a uniform once more. Rizzo is weighing the offer, which could represent his final experience in professional baseball. Colletti expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of Rizzo contributing to the Italian team, stating, “Rizzo is still deciding.”
Rizzo retired from Major League Baseball after the 2024 season, ending a celebrated career that included three All-Star selections and a championship win with the Cubs in 2016. He spent the last three years of his career with the Yankees, during which his performance varied significantly. In the 2024 season, he played in 92 games, achieving a batting average of .228 and an on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) of .637. His most productive season came in 2022, when he hit 32 home runs, yielding an OPS of .817.
As Rizzo reflects on the invitation, he faces a critical decision that could lead to a memorable moment in the WBC, an international tournament that showcases baseball talent from around the globe. The chance to represent Italy may resonate with Rizzo, who has Italian heritage and has expressed pride in his roots.
The WBC is set to take place in March 2025, providing Rizzo with a platform to possibly conclude his career on a high note. This potential participation not only highlights his continued passion for the sport but also reflects the ongoing appeal of international competition in baseball.
Rizzo’s journey in the MLB has been marked by resilience and achievement. As he deliberates the invitation, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see whether he steps back onto the field, even if only for a short time, to represent Team Italy in the WBC.
