What It Means:

Rizzo would presumably be considered "high risk" amid the COVID-19 pandemic for being a cancer survivor and therefore qualify for his prorated salary if he chose to opt out of playing. However, as of now, it appears Rizzo and the rest of the Cubs roster are willing to play in the planned 60-game season. He's expected to primarily hit second this season behind leadoff man Kris Bryant. Rizzo slashed .293/.405/.520 with 27 home runs, 94 RBI, 89 runs scored, and 5 steals over 613 plate appearances last year. His batting average and on-base percentage both set career-highs. Rizzo turns 31 in August.

numberFire's models project Rizzo to bat .282 with 10 homers, 35 RBI, 36 runs scored, and 2 steals in 231 plate appearances this season. Per FanDuel Sportsbook, the Cubs are tied for having the 13th-best odds (+2600) to win the 2020 World Series.