Reflecting on the Anthony Rizzo Trade

As we look back on the trade that sent our beloved Anthony Rizzo to the New York Yankees on July 29, 2021, it’s a mix of nostalgia, analysis, and a dash of hope for the future. Let’s dive into this bittersweet transaction and see where things stand today.

Anthony Rizzo: A Yankee Odyssey

Rizzo has donned the pinstripes for 299 games since he departed from the Cubs. With an OPS hovering just over the league average at .735, he’s been a steady presence in the Yankees lineup. Unfortunately, he’s currently on the 60-Day IL due to a right forearm fracture sustained in June. Despite the injury setbacks, Rizzo's tenure in New York has had its moments, including a solid performance during the 2022 playoffs where the Yankees reached the ALCS before falling to Houston.

Click on this video to wax nostalgic on one of the finest ABs of the decade for the Cubs.

Kevin Alcántara: The Future Star?

When the Yankees shipped a 19-year-old Kevin Alcántara our way, they probably knew we were getting a gem. Fast forward to now, and Alcántara is making waves in AA Tennessee. He is listed as the #36 overall prospect by Fangraphs and #64 overall by MLB pipleline

His scouting grades are impressive:

• Hit: 50

• Power: 55

• Run: 55

• Arm: 55

• Field: 55

• Overall: 55

Standing out with his size and athleticism, Alcántara has shown instincts that maximize his solid speed both on the bases and in the outfield. While he's spent most of his career in center field, his future in Chicago might see him shift to right field, especially once he’s sharing the outfield with Pete Crow-Armstrong. His power potential and strong arm make him a natural fit for the position, and we can’t wait to see him light up Wrigley.

Alexander Vizcaíno: A Mystery Wrapped in an Enigma

And then there’s Alexander Vizcaíno, the other piece of the Rizzo trade puzzle. His journey has been anything but straightforward. Placed on the restricted list shortly after the trade, Vizcaíno didn’t make an appearance in 2022. Speculations abound, with some rumors suggesting he only wanted to pitch for the Yankees. The restricted list typically shields players from prying eyes during non-baseball issues, and Vizcaíno’s case remains a mystery. Eventually non-tendered by the Cubs, his baseball future is uncertain.

The Verdict: A Trade in Progress

Reflecting on the trade, it’s clear that Rizzo found a new chapter with the Yankees, even if it wasn’t as triumphant as some hoped. His presence and performance in New York brought him a shot at contending, and that’s something to be happy about. For us Cubs fans, the real potential of this trade lies in Kevin Alcántara’s development. If he turns into the star we hope for, this trade could be seen in a more favorable light.

In the end, trades like these are about the long game. We may have lost a beloved player in Rizzo, but the future promises new talents and perhaps new legends at Wrigley.

Keep the faith, Cubs fans, and let’s continue to cheer on the next generation of Cubs stars.

Go Cubs!