Yankees Expect Ben Rice to Play 'A Lot' vs. Lefties in 2026

Yankees manager Aaron Boone anticipates Ben Rice will play "a lot" against left-handed pitchers in 2026. Despite limited playing time against southpaws in 2025, Rice slugged seven home runs with a .481 slugging percentage and a .208 average in 119 plate appearances. Heading into his age-27 season, Rice is expected to be the Yankees' primary first baseman and could earn an everyday role.