BRONX, NY: The New York Yankees needed an option to command first base once it was declared that veteran 1B Anthony Rizzo would head to the IL for the foreseeable future. Instead of hitting the trade or free agent market, they chose to stay within the organization by calling up No. 12 prospect, Ben Rice. That call is working out quite well for the Bombers.
Ben Rice, a 25-year old Massachusetts native, was the Yankees 2021 12th round pick. After spending time in the minor leagues and having a phenomenal AAA 2024 season, the Yankees chose to give him a shot in the Bronx.
Since being called up, the C/1B has slashed .294/.383/.588 with 4 home runs and 12 RBI. It took a bit for the youngster to get going, but his historic game against Boston yesterday gives the Yankees fan base something to drool over.
Rice went 3-5 in yesterday’s 14-4 win over the Red Sox. Hitting an outstanding 3 home runs and drove in a whopping 7 runs, making him the first rookie in Yankees history to smack three long balls in a single contest. Not only did Rice give the Yankees something to celebrate, the club needed that win in a bad way.
Every win against Boston is a success in the eyes of New York, but their recent skid proves they needed something to latch onto.
With question marks surrounding Anthony Rizzo’s future with the Yankees, they may have found his replacement. The entire time lighting up the AAA level. Although Rice’s career is a small sample size, the Yankees front office and their fan base have something promising to look forward to. 25-year old Ben Rice.
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