Rizzo Providing the spark the Yankees Needed

 Anthony Rizzo was already an established superstar before he ever donned Yankee pinstripes. A four time Gold Glover, All Star and World Series Champion with the Chicago Cubs, Rizzo has caught fire since his trade to New York last Thursday. 

One of two powerful left-handed bats that the Yankees obtained before the trade deadline, Rizzo is quickly becoming a fan favorite after pounding out five hits-in-nine at bats, with two homers and three RBI. One could argue easily that Rizzo's efforts over the weekend spurred the Yankees to a sweep of the Miami Marlins down in South Beach. 

Heck, Rizzo's efforts certainly dulled the lackluster efforts by Joey Gallo who carried his 2-for-30 slump with him from the Texas Rangers. Gallo is 1-for-12 since donning pinstripes this weekend. 

Had Brian Cashman not obtained Rizzo at the deadline, we almost certainly would have heard nothing but anger from Yankees fans over Gallo's efforts. What would one expect from a guy who is a career .211 hitter? 

As for Rizzo, he has balanced the lineup, and provided the kind of pop from the left side of the plate that the Yankees haven't seen in years. 

Granted it's only one series, and one weekend, but already its a different feel for these Bronx Bombers, who have sliced their deficit for the final wild card slot to only 2.5 games.  The Yankees are 6.5 out of the first in the AL East. 

Could things be turning around for the Yankees? Certainly could. It helps playing the Marlins, and later this week, the Baltimore Orioles to fatten up on some much needed victories. But with Rizzo lighting things up in the lineup for the first time this year it feels like there is reason to hope in Yankeeland. 

That alone is reason enough for the Yankees and Rizzo to give each other a long look and consideration for an extension down the road.