Ben Rice, the young Yankees prospect, finally got his long-awaited shot at the postseason stage, facing his hometown team in a matchup he'd followed since childhood. His first playoff moment was a defining moment for the 21-year-old, who launched a Brayan Bello cutter into the right-field seats for a two-run home run in the first inning—a blast that electrified the crowd and set up a deciding Game 3 in the American League Wild Card Series. This moment wasn’t just a personal victory for Rice; it was a full-circle return to the ballpark where he once scribbled 'Yankees Rule!' on the Pesky Pole and wore a Derek Jeter jersey for his first-grade photo day. Now, instead of a spectator in the stands, Rice is the one etching memories into Yankee Stadium’s history. The homerun marked the continuation of a late-season surge that saw Rice hit two homers in Sunday’s Game 162 against the Orioles, cementing his place in the Yankees' lineup. Despite a .255/.337/.499 batting average and 28 doubles, 26 homers, and 65 RBIs across 138 games, Rice was on the bench for Game 1 against Boston left-hander Garrett Crochet. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed he’ll start Paul Goldschmidt at first base against all left-handed starters this postseason, a decision the club also favored Austin Wells behind the plate. Rice’s first-career postseason home run, thrown by a left-handed pitcher, echoes his storied career, which includes homers in pivotal moments like the 2024 ALDS G1 (Lane Thomas) and 2022 NLWCS G1 (Juan Yepez). The list highlights his historic performances, from 2008 ALDS G1 (Evan Longoria) to 2004 NLDS G2 (Raul Chavez). As the Yankees advance, Rice’s journey underscores the legacy of a player who’s bridged generations of fandom. "If you go up there with a good plan and execute," Rice said, "you’re probably going to hit the ball on the sweet spot."
