Cubs News: Anthony Rizzo reacts to being still un-signed

Kamil Krzaczynski - USA Today Sports

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Sunday, February 23 2025

Former Chicago Cubs star Anthony Rizzo has battled some injuries in the latter stages of his career with the New York Yankees.

After the Yankees declined his $17 million option for 2025, opting for a $6 million buyout, Rizzo became a free agent.

Now 35, Rizzo remains unsigned as spring training games are underway.

Is this the end of Rizzo's playing days?

“I’ve definitely thought about it. I think I have a lot to give to the game still,” Rizzo told The Athletic. “But at the same time, if teams are not going to want to pay a few million dollars for veterans, I’ve seen it the last 10 years of my career. It’s what happens to the older guys. They kind of get squeezed.”

Rizzo doesn't want to sign for the league minimum, which would skew the salaries downward for veteran players.

“I’m surprised, but not like crazy surprised just because I’m a realist in the game and you’re getting older,” Rizzo said. The fact that teams want you to play for basically league minimum ($760,000), I’m like, you guys are crazy. You’re almost trying to ruin the market for the next guy.”