The New York Yankees are continuing to experiment with different lineups early in the 2025 MLB season, and for Thursday’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, they’ll roll out yet another new batting order. This time, Ben Rice will take on the leadoff spot and play first base, filling in for veteran Paul Goldschmidt, who will get a well-deserved rest. Rice, who has primarily served as the Yankees’ designated hitter so far, will hit at the top of the order and play first for the first time in his career.
Manager Aaron Boone gave a simple, one-word response when asked about his decision to bat Rice first: “Rakes.” Boone’s explanation speaks to Rice’s impressive start to the season, as the young player has been seeing the ball well and making solid contact. His strong early performance seems to have earned him the opportunity to provide a spark from the top of the lineup.
Through five games this season, the 26-year-old Rice is slashing .385/.429/.923, with two home runs, two RBIs, and five strikeouts in 13 at-bats. His performance has caught the attention of the Yankees’ coaching staff, and Boone is optimistic that Rice can help set the tone for the team as they look to bounce back from a rough stretch.
The Yankees began the 2025 season with a strong series sweep over the Milwaukee Brewers, but they’ve since dropped the first two games of their series against the Diamondbacks. With the series finale looming, New York is hoping to secure a win and avoid losing their third straight game. Boone’s lineup changes, including moving Rice to leadoff, are part of the team’s effort to reignite their offense and get back on track.
As the Yankees continue to search for consistency early in the season, Rice’s unexpected placement at the top of the order could be a key factor in jumpstarting the team’s offense. With strong performances like his, New York hopes to regain momentum and finish their series with a win.
