Anthony Rizzo: Is He Still Playing Baseball? Injury, Where He Lives & Wiki
Anthony Vincent Rizzo, born on August 8, 1989, is a name synonymous with consistency, leadership and philanthropy in Major League Baseball. With a career spanning over a decade and featuring stops at the Padres, Cubs and Yankees, Rizzo has established himself not just as a formidable first baseman, but also as a respected figure off the field.
As of 2025, many fans are wondering: Is Anthony Rizzo still playing baseball? What is his current injury status? Where does he live now? This article dives deep into all these questions, offering a comprehensive overview of Rizzo’s life, career and prospects.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Anthony Rizzo grew up in Parkland, Florida, where he attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. He was drafted in the 6th round of the 2007 MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox, with a $325,000 signing bonus.
He spent his early years in the minor leagues, playing for the Gulf Coast League Red Sox, Greenville Drive, Salem Red Sox, and the Portland Sea Dogs.
By the end of 2010, he had impressive numbers in the minors (e.g. 25 home runs, 100 RBIs across High-A and Double-A), which drew attention from other teams.
MLB Debut and Rise to Stardom
On December 6, 2010, Rizzo was traded from the Red Sox to the San Diego Padres (alongside Casey Kelly, Reymond Fuentes, and Eric Patterson) in exchange for All-Star first baseman Adrián González.
He made his Major League debut on June 9, 2011, for the Padres.
In January 2012, Rizzo was traded to the Chicago Cubs, which proved to be a turning point in his career.
While with the Cubs, Rizzo blossomed into one of the league’s premier first basemen. He made three consecutive All-Star teams (2014–2016), won multiple Gold Glove Awards (2016, 2018–2020), a Silver Slugger (2016), and was instrumental in the Cubs’ 2016 World Series title.
Off the field, he founded the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation in 2012, to support pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Move to the New York Yankees
In July 2021, Rizzo was traded mid-season from the Cubs to the New York Yankees.
He made an immediate impact in New York — in his first two games with the Yankees, he homered in each game and became the first player in Yankees history to go 4 for 5 with multiple home runs in his first two games.
Over the next few seasons (2022–2024), he served as New York’s primary first baseman, though his production declined somewhat toward the end.
Is Anthony Rizzo Still Playing Baseball?
As of early 2025, Anthony Rizzo is not signed with any MLB team — he is a free agent.
That said, Rizzo has publicly stated that he remains healthy and eager to play in 2025, despite not having a team heading into spring training.
Some analysts and media reports have speculated that he might retire, given his age (he turned 36 in August 2025) and declining offensive numbers.
However, as of now, he has not announced an official retirement. So technically, yes — he is available and ready to play, but not under contract with any team.
Injury History
Over the years, Rizzo has had a few injuries, some significant:
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In 2018, he was placed on the disabled list due to a back issue.
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In 2023, while playing for the Yankees, he suffered concussion symptoms and was shut down for the season.
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In 2024, he started the season as the Yankees’ first baseman, but in June he suffered a broken forearm (collision with Boston pitcher Brennan Bernardino). That injury landed him on the injured list and curtailed his season.
As of early 2025, Rizzo has stated he is fully healthy.
Still, injuries — especially at his age — remain a concern for prospective teams considering signing him.
Current Stats & Career Highlights
Here are some of Rizzo’s key career highlights and statistics:
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Career batting average: ~.261 (through 2024)
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Hits: ~1,644
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Home Runs: ~303
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Runs Batted In (RBIs): ~965
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Awards: 3× All-Star, 4× Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, Roberto Clemente Award, World Series Champion (2016)
Where Does Anthony Rizzo Live?
Anthony Rizzo maintains strong roots in Florida, especially in his hometown of Parkland. His foundation is based in Parkland, Florida, and also has a presence in Brooklyn, New York.
His residence is reported to be in Fort Lauderdale/Parkland area of South Florida.
Since his trade to the Yankees, he has had to spend considerable time in New York as well, but his home base remains in Florida.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
Rizzo is married to Emily Vakos. The pair married on December 29, 2018.
They also have a dog named Kevin, adopted during their time in New York.
His philanthropic work is notable: the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation supports pediatric cancer patients and their families, and has raised millions of dollars for cancer research and support programs.
Rizzo himself beat Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008, and his experience continues to influence the foundation’s mission.
What Lies Ahead?
Given that Rizzo is healthy and has publicly stated his willingness to play, there is still a possibility that he could sign with a team in 2025 — perhaps as a veteran leader, a clubhouse presence, or even a platoon first baseman.
On the flip side, some analysts have speculated that his declining offensive metrics, age, and injury history could point toward an impending retirement.
Ultimately, whether he plays or retires may depend on the offers he receives, the role teams are willing to give him, and his own motivation to continue in the majors.
FAQs
Q1: Is Anthony Rizzo still playing baseball?
A1: As of early 2025, Anthony Rizzo is not signed with any MLB team (free agent), but he has publicly stated he is fully healthy and eager to play.
Q2: Has Anthony Rizzo officially retired?
A2: No. He has not made an official retirement announcement. Some media speculation suggests retirement may be on the horizon given his age and performance, but he remains available.
Q3: What injuries has Anthony Rizzo had recently?
A3: Key injuries in recent years include concussion issues in 2023, and a broken forearm in 2024 (collision with a pitcher). As of 2025, he reports he is fully healthy.
Q4: Where does Anthony Rizzo live?
A4: Rizzo’s home base is in Parkland / Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He also spends time in New York due to his former stint with the Yankees.
Q5: What is the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation?
A5: Founded in 2012, the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation is a non-profit organisation that raises funds for pediatric cancer research and support for families battling the disease. Rizzo founded it after his own battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Q6: What are Rizzo’s career highlights?
A6:
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3× All-Star (2014, 2015, 2016)
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World Series champion (2016) with the Cubs
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4× Gold Glove Award (2016, 2018–2020)
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Silver Slugger Award (2016)
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Over 300 career home runs and nearly 1,000 RBIs
Conclusion
Anthony Rizzo remains one of the most respected players in recent MLB history — not only for his contributions on the field but for his leadership, character and philanthropic efforts off it. While he is currently a free agent, his continued health and willingness to play leave the door open for one more chapter in his playing career. Whether he signs with a team or moves into retirement, his legacy is already well cemented.
