Ben Rice made a major statement at the plate, notching the first 4-hit game of his career as the New York Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 6–3 in an exciting spring matchup at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.
While technically playing as the visiting team at their own spring training home, the Yankees came out strong—led by Rice’s bat and solid pitching from the bullpen.
Rice Shines Bright
The 24-year-old prospect went 4-for-4, showcasing a mix of power and contact hitting that turned heads in the stands and in the dugout. Rice drove in two runs and scored once, making a compelling case for increased playing time as the regular season approaches.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Rice after the game, calling it “a breakout performance” and noting his confidence and approach at the plate.
Team Effort Seals the Win
Beyond Rice’s standout day, the Yankees got contributions from Oswaldo Cabrera, who homered in the third, and Estevan Florial, who added an RBI double. The pitching staff combined for 11 strikeouts, with Luis Gil impressing in relief.
The Rays kept things close early, but struggled to capitalize with runners in scoring position—ultimately falling short in the later innings.
A Glimpse of What’s to Come?
Spring training or not, this win highlighted the Yankees’ promising depth, especially from rising talent like Rice. If he continues to perform, fans could see him pushing his way onto the Opening Day roster—or at least playing a bigger role in the Bronx sooner rather than later.
With a big bat and growing confidence, Ben Rice gave Yankees fans something to cheer about—and something to hope for this season.
