‘Wrecking ball’ Ben Rice makes his case against lefties with big day at plate for Yankees
Ben Rice demonstrated his offensive prowess against left-handed pitching with a three-run home run in the Yankees' 7-2 victory over the Orioles. The 27-year-old first baseman has significantly improved his performance against lefties this season, challenging earlier lineup hesitations. Manager Aaron Boone praised Rice's discipline and consistent development into a formidable MLB hitter.
- ▪Ben Rice hit his fifth home run of the season off left-handed pitcher Cade Povich in the Yankees' 7-2 win over the Orioles.
- ▪Rice entered the game with a .370 average and 1.266 OPS against left-handed pitchers in 27 at-bats.
- ▪After the game, Rice ranked second in MLB in OPS against left-handed pitching with a 1.308 mark.
- ▪Yankees manager Aaron Boone described Rice as a 'wrecking ball' and highlighted his disciplined approach at the plate.
- ▪Rice has transitioned from being primarily used against righties to proving effective against left-handed pitchers in 2026.
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MLB New York Yankees ‘Wrecking ball’ Ben Rice makes his case against lefties with big day at plate for Yankees By Bridget Reilly Published May 2, 2026, 12:05 a.m. ET Ben Rice took another step Friday in proving his value in the big leagues. At the start of the season, the Yankees were hesitant to use him against left-handed pitchers, often leaving the catcher-turned-first baseman out of the lineup. Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Greg Joyce about the inside buzz on the Yankees. Try it free However, he continued to make his case to the Yankees that he can be matched up against anyone when he ripped a fifth home run of the season off a lefty in the Bombers’ 7-2 win over the Orioles.
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