Anthony Rizzo progresses in Yankees rehab

Anthony Rizzo is on track for a potential return to the New York Yankees by early September, following a rehab assignment with Double-A Somerset in Portland, Maine. The veteran first baseman, who fractured his right forearm over two months ago, played his first game on Friday night, going 0-for-1 with two walks and a run scored. Initially, Rizzo will serve as the designated hitter for at least four games, with plans to transition to field play next weekend, as indicated by manager Aaron Boone. Boone expressed optimism about Rizzo's recovery, noting that he appeared to be in good form during live batting practice last week. Although Rizzo's performance prior to his injury was underwhelming, with a batting average of .223 and an OPS of .630, his return could provide a much-needed boost to a Yankees lineup that has struggled at first base, posting a combined OPS of .574 since his absence. In addition to Rizzo, pitcher Clarke Schmidt also began a rehab assignment on Friday, throwing 3 ²/₃ innings and striking out six batters. Schmidt, who has been sidelined since May 27 due to a lat strain, is aiming to rejoin the Yankees rotation in September after a strong start to the season with a 2.52 ERA. Meanwhile, infielder Jon Berti faced travel issues that delayed the start of his rehab assignment, but he is expected to begin workouts and join the team in Somerset soon. The Yankees are navigating a shorthanded roster, particularly in the pitching department, following Luis Gil's recent injury.