Ben Rice Steps Up as Yankees Face Challenge Without Aaron Judge
Ben Rice denies having any extra pressure to carry Yankees’ offense with Aaron Judge out
Image: New York Post
With Aaron Judge sidelined due to injury, Ben Rice is adjusting to increased expectations in the Yankees lineup. Despite the pressure, Rice remains focused on his performance, aiming to maintain his strong hitting as the team navigates this setback.
- 01Ben Rice has been a key player in the Yankees lineup, currently in the MVP conversation.
- 02Rice is adjusting to hitting without Aaron Judge, who has been a significant presence in the lineup.
- 03In the absence of Judge, Rice's recent performance includes 4-for-14 with three walks and a home run.
- 04Hitting coach James Rowson praised Rice's work ethic and preparation against opposing pitchers.
- 05The Yankees need increased production from their lineup to stay competitive in the AL East.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Ben Rice is stepping into a more prominent role for the New York Yankees as they face the challenge of playing without Aaron Judge, who is expected to be sidelined for two months due to a rib injury. Rice, who has been hitting well this season with an OPS of 1.051, acknowledges the impact of Judge's absence, stating, 'He’s a big presence to not have in our lineup.' Despite this, Rice insists he does not feel additional pressure, focusing instead on his individual performance. In the four games without Judge, Rice has recorded four hits, including a home run, and has been praised by hitting coach James Rowson for his dedication to studying pitchers. The Yankees will need Rice and others to step up offensively to maintain their position in the AL East standings while Judge recovers.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Yankees need to maintain offensive production to stay competitive in the AL East with Judge out.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How do you think the Yankees will perform without Aaron Judge?
Connecting to poll...
More about New York Yankees
Yankees Catcher Austin Wells Joins Injured List Amid Team Struggles
Entertainment And Sports Programming Network • Jun 7, 2026
Yankees Place Austin Wells on Injured List, Recall J.C. Escarra
Pinstripe Alley • Jun 7, 2026
Beck Way Shines in MLB Debut Despite Royals' Loss to Twins
Kansas City Star • Jun 6, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.