Anthony Rizzo Fantasy Outlook: Should you consider moving on from Yankees struggling first baseman?

It's been a rough start to the 2024 campaign for veteran Anthony Rizzo. The struggles of the three-time All-Star have been well-documented given the fact that he plays for the New York Yankees.

Although he has not necessarily been a star at the plate, his defensive struggles have raised eyebrows among fans.

"What is going on with Anthony Rizzo?" - @ChrisKirschner

There have been many theories behind Anthony Rizzo's early season struggles. Some believe that he could still be suffering from the concussion that he suffered last season which resulted in him being limited to only 99 games. Others think that the 34-year-old may simply be aging out of elite skills in the majors.

So far through 19 games this season, Rizzo has posted a .240 batting average with a home run and seven RBIs. Not only has the veteran raised concerns among New York Yankees fans but also fantasy baseball managers who may be panicking over the former All-Star.

On ESPN, Rizzo has an 18.6 ownership percentage, so managers have already proven to have limited faith in the veteran, and it appears that this has been an ongoing trend. That raises the question, should that be the case?

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Anthony Rizzo should be dropped in fantasy baseball leagues until he begins to turn things around

Unfortunately for those who drafted Rizzo, and the player himself, it's clear that the veteran's best days are behind him. Although he started last season on a hot streak, a devastating concussion saw his numbers dip before eventually being placed on the injured list by the New York Yankees.

Dropping Rizzo might be a difficult decision for fantasy baseball managers who drafted him given his track record and position in the New York Yankees lineup. However, it may be time to move on from the veteran first baseman for many reasons.

There are concerns regarding his health, production and spot in the lineup potentially being in jeopardy. The impending return of DJ LeMahieu may not only drop Rizzo in the lineup but could result in a reduction in playing time.

The return of LeMahieu and the red-hot start to the season for Oswaldo Cabrera could hurt Rizzo.

"When DJ LeMahieu returns from injury. Who should be the starting third basemen? Oswaldo Cabrera OR DJ LeMahieu. Let me know your thoughts?" - @bxpinstripes_

Although Anthony Rizzo has been a fan favorite since his playing days with the Chicago Cubs, his value and best days in fantasy baseball are behind him. There are too many other names to target who provide more value than hanging on to Rizzo.