Yankees Score Another Slugger with Rizzo Trade

 The Yankees are not messing around. The Bronx Bombers acquired Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo for minor leaguers Alexander Vizcaino and outfielder Kevin Alcantra. Both Vizcaino and Alcantra were among top 12 prospects int he Yankees farm system. 

Rizzo is having a down year this year, hitting .248 with 14 homers and 40 RBI. The good news for the Yankees, the Cubs will pick up the reamining $5.5 million on the deal. It's a move that leaves the Yankees with about $4 million in space from the $210 million luxury tax threshold. 

In that regard it's a steal. Yes, the Yankees lose two top prospects. But they get a legit power threat, and a consistent left handed bat for the middle of the order in Rizzo. 

This is a clear message by Brian Cashman that despite the team's inconsistent play this season, they are going for it. The Yankees are only 2.5 out of the second wild card as Oakland continues to struggle. 

With Rizzo and Joey Gallo now part of the Yankees lineup, the Bronx Bombers are now complete up and down the order with power from both sides of the plate. They will not be fun to pitch to down the stretch. 

The big gamble with Rizzo is he is a free agent after the season. He probably won't stay with the Yankees, unless they can convince him to sign with them long term. If he walks, the Yankees could always move DJ LeMahieu to first base as has been suggested by the Yankees beat writers. 

Meanwhile, the Yankees need pitching. If they are serious about the playoffs, they need pitching and need it badly.