The New York Yankees are on cruise control after clinching the AL East earlier this week, so Wednesday night, manager Aaron Boone invited a special “guest manager” to help him.
Don’t worry, the special guest, Anthony Rizzo, knows his way around the Yankees dugout.
According to the MLB Network, the three-time all-star first baseman is serving as Boone’s understudy. He carried out the lineup card and will help with strategy. He did not start the game in Toronto against the Blue Jays.
Boone certainly won’t let Rizzo go out and argue with an umpire should the situation arise, although the veteran has shown a penchant lately for blowing up at umpires.
“Rizz is helping me out today,” Boone said (via SI.com). “He helped out with the lineup today, putting it together. He’s gonna help in the decision-making process this game.”
It didn’t take Rizzo long to get into his new role in the dugout.
Shortstop Gleyber Torres got in on the fun, talking strategy in the dugout with Boone.
The 33-year-old Rizzo has tied a career high this season with 32 home runs, posting an .836 OPS.
It’s all fun and games for the Yankees until the playoffs start next month.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.