Yankees’ Ben Rice Expected to Return After Elbow Injury
Despite a 6–4 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Monday, the New York Yankees are set to receive a boost as rookie standout Ben Rice is expected to return to the lineup on Tuesday.
Rice, who has been one of the team’s most productive hitters in his first full season, had been sidelined after taking a pitch to the elbow during a recent game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Fortunately, X-rays came back negative, confirming no serious damage. Now, his return depends only on managing pain, and manager Aaron Boone anticipates his return for the second game of the series against Cleveland.
Prior to his injury, Rice had been a key presence in the Yankees’ batting order. He was slashing .292/.403/.600 with a 1.003 OPS and ranked among the league’s best in average exit velocity, barrel rate, and hard-hit percentage. Whether batting leadoff or in the two-hole, he provided consistent production, including a .375 batting average and .412 on-base percentage when hitting second.
His return comes at an opportune time, as the Yankees face Guardians starter Tanner Bibee, a young pitcher still finding his rhythm. After missing chances in Monday’s loss, the Yankees will benefit from Rice’s balanced left-handed bat near the top of the order, especially with Aaron Judge following.
Rice is expected to resume his role as designated hitter while the team continues to rotate players in the outfield. The temporary absence of Trent Grisham, who is on paternity leave, has left the Yankees needing more firepower in the lineup.
While the Yankees remain in a strong position within the AL East, having Rice back adds a much-needed spark. His return could help swing the momentum as the team looks to even the series Tuesday night.
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