Yankees Star Shifts Narrative on Perceived Weakness
Ben Rice has shown clear improvement at first base early this season. The 27-year-old’s recent plays have reduced questions about his glove and scooping ability.
Defensive strides in live games
Rice made a difficult stop and scoop that helped complete a two-on, one-out double play. He stretched, secured the throw, and finished the play despite tumbling to the dirt. He also started a 3-6-1 inning-ending double play after chasing a chopper to his right.
A ninth-inning groundout in the season opener was recorded 6-3, shortstop to first. Replay showed an off-balance throw from Jose Caballero that sailed in the dirt three feet short of Rice. A year earlier, that play might have been scored an error.
Recent offensive contributions
Rice singled and scored in the Yankees’ 7-0 Opening Day victory. He later doubled off the right-field wall, driving in two runs in a 3-1 win that completed a series sweep of the Giants.
Background and role with the Yankees
Drafted in the 12th round out of Dartmouth in 2022, Rice was introduced to first base soon after. He spent most of his catching time through 2023 but shifted toward first base in 2024.
In 2024 he started 33 games at Double-A and Triple-A at first base. After a major-league call-up, he added 41 first-base starts with the Yankees as he filled in for an injured Anthony Rizzo.
Roster status and catching mix
The Yankees entered the season with three catchers on the roster. Austin Wells remains the primary receiver, with J.C. Escarra as the backup. Rice is listed as the No. 3 catcher while serving as the team’s starting first baseman.
Rice made 26 starts behind the plate last season. His only catching action this spring was one inning in the final Grapefruit League game. The Yankees have had him work bullpens and live batting practice while prioritizing first base in games.
Performance metrics and scouting view
Offensively, Rice produced 24 home runs and 65 RBIs across 138 games last year. He hit .255 with an .836 OPS for the season.
Defensively, the Fielding Bible ranked him minus-2 in Defensive Runs Saved among first basemen. That placed him 157th of 183 qualifiers. Baseball Savant’s Outs Above Average gave him a 0, tied for 17th among 40 first basemen with at least 100 chances.
A scout who saw Rice frequently in spring training told Filmogaz.com he looks far more comfortable at first base. The scout praised improved footwork and better reads on irregular hops.
Coaching staff and teammates on progress
Manager Aaron Boone has noted substantial growth since Rice began playing first base in earnest. Boone highlighted Rice’s work ethic and ability to accept challenges.
Veteran teammates observed the same development. Aaron Judge pointed to Rice’s offseason work at the Tampa player development complex as a factor in his stronger early-season form.
Outlook and usage
The Yankees committed to Rice as the club’s starting first baseman this season. Paul Goldschmidt, a seven-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner, returned on a one-year contract. Goldschmidt will get starts against left-handers, but Rice is the clear everyday option.
Rice said he needs more in-game reps to keep improving. The club expects him to get those opportunities while remaining available as part of the catching mix.
- Age: 27 (turned 27 in January)
- 2024 offensive totals: 24 HR, 65 RBI, .255 AVG, .836 OPS in 138 games
- Drafted: 2022, 12th round, Dartmouth
- 2025 defensive marks: DRS -2 (157th of 183), OAA 0 (tied 17th among 40)
- Roster note: Third catcher behind Austin Wells and J.C. Escarra
- Betting line: Yankees moneyline listed at -108 on FanDuel for Monday versus Seattle
The narrative around Rice has shifted from a perceived weakness to a developing strength. As the season progresses, he will face continued scrutiny. But early signs suggest the Yankees star is answering those questions at first base.
