Anthony Rizzo is officially a free agent, marking the end of his term with the New York Yankees. After three seasons in the Bronx, the first baseman, who helped lead the Chicago Cubs to their 2016 World Series title, is now seeking a new home. Rumors about Rizzo’s return to Chicago are prevalent in the media, where he became a fan favorite and a franchise cornerstone. Cubs officials have yet to address the speculation, but his ties to the city and team history make him an ideal fit.

Since the conclusion of the 2024 World Series, Rizzo is not the only key player to leave the Yankees. Another high-profile player testing the open market is slugger Juan Soto. After an eventful tenure with the Yankees following his trade from the Padres in 2023, Soto is now a free agent. Known for his elite power and exceptional plate discipline, Soto is one of the most feared hitters in baseball. His ability to get on base at a high rate and consistently hit for power makes him one of the most sought-after players this offseason to teams looking to add a dynamic bat to their lineup. While the Yankees may look to re-sign him, Soto is expected to attract interest from multiple teams, with contenders willing to offer him a substantial deal.

As the offseason unfolds, the futures of Rizzo and Soto remain in flux. However, Rizzo’s potential return to the Cubs and Soto’s market value are shaping up to be two of the most intriguing storylines in baseball this winter.