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Ben Rice’s recent surge
Ben Rice has been making waves in the Yankees lineup, showcasing his talent and resilience despite facing challenges. After a rocky patch where he struggled to convert hard hits into runs, Rice finally broke through with a stunning 423-foot home run, marking his 11th of the season.
This impressive display of power comes at a crucial time as the Yankees prepare for the return of Giancarlo Stanton, raising questions about how the team will manage its roster moving forward.
Understanding Rice’s metrics
Despite a dip in his batting average to .244, Rice’s underlying metrics tell a different story.
His exit velocity averages an impressive 94.5 mph, placing him among the top hitters in the league. With a hard-hit rate of 58.3%, he ranks fifth in Major League Baseball, indicating that his ability to make solid contact remains intact.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone has expressed confidence in Rice’s at-bats, emphasizing that the young player continues to hit the ball hard, even if the results haven’t always matched his efforts.
Lineup implications with Stanton’s return
As Stanton inches closer to rejoining the team, the Yankees face a dilemma regarding their lineup configuration.
Rice has capitalized on his opportunity to play regularly, but with Stanton’s return, Boone will need to find a balance that allows all deserving hitters to get their share of at-bats. The current rotation of players, including Rice, Paul Goldschmidt, and Cody Bellinger, has been effective, but Stanton’s presence complicates matters.
While Stanton may not play every day initially, his lack of positional flexibility limits options for the Yankees, making Rice’s performance even more critical in the coming weeks.
Looking ahead
With Stanton’s rehab progressing, the Yankees must strategize to maintain their offensive momentum while integrating their star player back into the lineup.
Rice’s ability to hit fastballs effectively, combined with his recent power surge, positions him as a valuable asset. As the team navigates this transition, fans will be watching closely to see how Boone manages the lineup and whether Rice can continue to shine in a crowded field of talent.
