Anthony Rizzo shows promise for Yankees in recent games

Anthony Rizzo has shown improvement since returning from a fractured right forearm on September 1. Initially struggling in his first eight games back, he recorded a .185 batting average and a .501 OPS. However, his at-bats have been more promising compared to earlier in the season, where he averaged only 86.3 mph on batted balls, leading to a disappointing .224 average and eight home runs before his injury. Hitting coach James Rowson and manager Aaron Boone have expressed optimism about Rizzo's potential to contribute positively moving forward. Defensively, Rizzo has returned to form, showcasing his skills as a four-time Gold Glove winner. His recent performances included saving potential errors and making impressive plays, indicating a return to his previous defensive prowess. The Yankees are in need of a reliable first baseman, especially with DJ LeMahieu on the injured list and limited options available. The Yankees' decision to call up Jasson Dominguez and move Alex Verdugo to a lesser role reflects their strategy to address weaknesses in the lineup. With Rizzo's improved performance, the team hopes to stabilize their first base position and enhance their overall competitiveness. While Rizzo may not return to his All-Star form from 2016, the Yankees are encouraged by his hard contact and solid defense. They believe that if he can maintain league-average hitting alongside his defensive skills, it would significantly benefit the team as they navigate the remainder of the season.