A New Look at the Yankees Lineup
The New York Yankees made a few strategic changes to their lineup, giving Giancarlo Stanton a well-deserved day off after he had started six games in a row. Paul Goldschmidt took the field against a left-handed pitcher, while Ben Rice got the chance to bat as the designated hitter. This change also brought about a new leadoff hitter for the team.
For the first time this season, Ben Rice found himself at the top of the lineup, batting ahead of Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Goldschmidt. Rice has consistently been one of the league’s top hitters, but manager Aaron Boone clarified that this position would not become a regular occurrence. Typically, Rice hits in the middle of the order, and his move to the leadoff spot was due to several factors, including a series of off days and a unique matchup against lefty pitcher Cole Ragans, who has historically performed better against right-handed hitters.
Rice’s Performance Against Lefties
Rice’s performance against lefties has been nothing short of impressive, with an OPS of 1.332, compared to 1.255 against righties. Despite being out of the starting lineup when facing lefties, Boone has been quick to bring Rice in as a pinch hitter. However, the reasons to sit him are becoming fewer and farther between.
During Sunday’s game against Ragans, Rice showcased his ability to perform against even the best left-handed pitchers. He worked a walk in the first inning, just before Judge hit a home run, and then launched his eighth home run of the season (and fourth in four games) in the second inning. His five plate appearances resulted in a home run and two walks in the Yankees’ 7-0 victory at Yankee Stadium.
“I just got to continue to get the reps [against southpaws] and continue to swing at good pitches, work good at-bats,” said Rice, who is excelling against both lefties and righties. “That’s all I can do.”
Judge’s Perspective on Rice
Judge praised Rice’s performance, noting that he expected Rice to be on base frequently, making it easier for him to drive him in. “Definitely going to be some headaches for opposing pitching staffs. … He’s top of the league right now.”
Boone emphasized that his decision to place Rice at the top of the lineup wasn’t solely based on whether the pitcher was a righty or lefty. “Quality at-bat after quality at-bat,” Judge added. “Doesn’t matter who’s on the mound or the situation.”
Volpe’s Progression
In what was expected to be his final game with Double-A Somerset before moving up to SWB, Anthony Volpe had a solid performance, going 2-for-4 while playing seven innings. Volpe, who has gone 4-for-11 with two steals in four games, is set to join SWB on Tuesday.
