Chicago Cubs reportedly eyeing Anthony Rizzo once again

Let’s go back to this time last year. The Chicago Cubs were entering the season with a large portion of their core on the cusp of free agency. Despite that, the expectation was that they would keep at least a few of those players, with Anthony Rizzo atop that list.

That did not happen as the Cubs and Rizzo were unable to come to terms on a new deal. When he was traded to the Yankees at the deadline last year, it seemed that his time in Chicago had come and gone. Instead, the Cubs are reportedly considering bringing Rizzo back once the lockout comes to an end.

Chicago Cubs could consider Anthony Rizzo reunion

On the surface, such a reunion would not make much sense. Frank Schwindel, the current first baseman, performed well once he took over the majority of the playing time after the trade deadline. As the Cubs have plenty of holes on their roster and Schwindel is inexpensive, it would make sense to find out how he can perform over a full season.

Likewise, both Schwindel and Rizzo fill the same position. Schwindel is a former catcher who, after being moved from behind the plate, has all of three games of experience combined in the majors and minors at another position. Rizzo has played 13 games at second, but has all of five innings at the position, and has not played anywhere else.

However, there is a possible solution. With the designated hitter expected to be coming to the National League for the upcoming season, there could be enough plate appearances for both players. The Cubs do need more pop in the lineup, and Rizzo could provide just that.

It would also be another sign that they are looking to reload instead of rebuild. The Cubs have already done some work to remake their rotation as they landed Marcus Stroman and Wade Miley. Rizzo would be another step in that direction.

The Chicago Cubs could look to bring Anthony Rizzo back home. As surprising as a reunion may be, it could actually make sense.