In a storyline no one saw coming — especially not loyal Yankees fans — beloved former Yankee Anthony Rizzo has taken on a surprising new role that’s turning heads across the American League. No, he’s not lacing up his cleats for a Bronx comeback. Instead, the once-vocal clubhouse leader and fan favorite is now mentoring a rising young star… on a division rival.
Yes — a division rival.
While the New York Yankees charge forward as one of MLB’s top teams in 2025, their AL East counterparts are struggling to find their rhythm. The Baltimore Orioles, a team packed with young talent but plagued by inconsistency, recently called up top prospect Coby Mayo to fill in at first base following an injury to Ryan Mountcastle. But while Mayo’s transition to the major leagues is filled with pressure, he’s had a surprising steadying presence behind the scenes: none other than Anthony Rizzo.
According to The Baltimore Sun, Mayo revealed that Rizzo has been a mentor to him since the day he was drafted.
“When I got drafted, Rizzo immediately wanted to start working out with me,” Mayo told the Sun. “He pushed for it. He wanted to bring me into his circle and show me the ropes. He’s a World Series winner, possibly a future Hall of Famer — just an incredible guy to be around. Watching how hard he works, how he carries himself, it’s been huge for me.”
Rizzo’s mentorship has quietly taken shape off the field — away from cameras, headlines, and fanfare. Though no longer in the Yankees’ lineup, the four-time Gold Glover and three-time All-Star continues to shape the game — only now, his wisdom is fueling a young talent in enemy territory.
The move feels almost surreal to Yankee fans, many of whom still consider Rizzo a Bronx hero. He played four seasons in New York, known for his grit, leadership, and timely power at the plate. Though his time in pinstripes was marred by injury, he remained one of the most respected voices in the clubhouse and a fan favorite throughout his tenure.
Now, seeing him lend that same voice to a division rival has sparked emotional reactions online. Social media has buzzed with everything from admiration to disbelief.
What This Means for the Orioles
With Mountcastle reportedly on the trade block and the Orioles desperately searching for a new identity, Mayo’s development is a key part of their rebuild. And having Rizzo in his corner — even informally — could prove invaluable. Mayo, primarily a third baseman in the minors, is being asked to adjust on the fly to a new position at the highest level of the sport.
Thanks to Rizzo, he’s not doing it alone.
A Legacy Beyond the Pinstripes
For Rizzo, this chapter reflects something deeper than stats or standings. It’s about impact — passing on the knowledge he’s gathered over a decorated career to ensure the game’s next generation thrives. While Yankee fans may have never imagined cheering for someone helping the Orioles, it’s hard not to respect a player still shaping the sport in his own way.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s what makes Anthony Rizzo a Bronx hero — even when he’s guiding someone in different colors.
