Yankees' Ben Rice Hits First Spring Homer

Slugger goes 2-for-3 with a solo home run and an RBI double in Grapefruit League win over Red Sox.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Yankees prospect Ben Rice had a strong performance in Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox, going 2-for-3 with a solo home run and an RBI double. Rice belted a 412-foot solo shot in the fifth inning to cap the scoring, and he also drove in a run with a double in the third. The 24-year-old is off to a hot start this spring, slashing .400/.471/.667 with four RBIs through his first five games.

Why it matters

Rice is expected to play a key role for the Yankees this season, serving as the team's primary first baseman while also seeing time at catcher and designated hitter. A strong spring performance could help solidify his spot on the Opening Day roster and give him momentum heading into the regular season.

The details

In Wednesday's game, Rice hit a run-scoring double in the third inning and then launched a 412-foot solo home run in the fifth to finish the day 2-for-3. The young slugger has been impressive so far this spring, posting a .400 batting average, .471 on-base percentage, and .667 slugging percentage through his first five Grapefruit League games.

  • The game took place on Wednesday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Ben Rice

A 24-year-old prospect expected to be the Yankees' primary first baseman this season, with additional playing time at catcher and designated hitter.

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The takeaway

Rice's strong spring performance is a positive sign for the Yankees, as they look to the young slugger to help anchor their lineup and provide depth at multiple positions this upcoming season.