Yankees have plenty of options to solve MLB-worst production at first base

When Anthony Rizzo collided with Fernando Tatis Jr.on May 28, 2023, a slugger’s career was sidetracked — as was an entire positional group. Since that day, after which Rizzo struggled and eventually was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome, Yankees first basemen have been the worst in baseball. In 289 games since the crash, Yankees first basemen have posted a .602 OPS that is easily the lowest (29th is the Brewers at .654).

There were 129 hitters who received enough plate appearances to qualify for individual awards in 2024, and the worst OPS belonged to the Royals’ Maikel Garcia at .613.For quite a long stretch, the worst qualified hitter in baseball has outperformed Yankees first basemen. Since the collision, DJ LeMahieu, Ben Rice, Oswaldo Cabrera, Jake Bauers and J.D.

Davis had chances (as did Jon Berti in the ’24 postseason).None ran with the job, and after the Yankees declined Rizzo’s option, they will be on the hunt to fix what has been a surprising problem. The Juan Soto sweepstakes will have to be settled before the Yankees can act, and where Soto ends up will dictate just about every significant decision the Yankees make this winter.

If they have an extra $600 million-$700 million in the budget, they could more freely splurge at first base. When they search for first base help, free agents will include: The longtime Mets slugger has blasted 226 home runs since debuting in 2019 — second only to Aaron Judge.He will turn 30 next month, is proven both in New York and big moments, and just about never leaves the field. Alonso, though, is coming off the worst statistical season of his career (.788 OPS) and will be looking for the largest and longest pact of the free agents who play first.

He is a righty slugger, and the Yankees likely would prefer a lefty behind Aaron Judge.He is a playable but not strong defensive first baseman. The longtime Diamondback has won three straight Gold Gloves and is among the more underrated players in MLB...