Who Is Ben Rice?

Ben Rice is an American professional baseball player for the New York Yankees. Born in Cohasset, Massachusetts, he played college baseball at Dartmouth before being selected by the Yankees in the 2021 MLB Draft.

After making his MLB debut in 2024, Rice steadily developed into one of New York’s most dangerous left-handed hitters. His combination of patience at the plate and raw power has made him an important part of the Yankees’ lineup.

Ben Rice Profile

• Full Name: Benjamin Kimball Rice
• Date of Birth: February 22, 1999
• Age: 27 (as of 2026)
• Birthplace: Cohasset, Massachusetts
• Team: New York Yankees
• Position: First Baseman / Designated Hitter / Catcher
• Bats: Left
• Throws: Right

Ben Rice Home Run Derby Journey

The 2026 Home Run Derby was Rice’s first appearance in MLB’s annual power-hitting showcase.

His biggest decision before the event was selecting who would throw batting practice pitches. Rather than choosing a professional coach, Rice invited his father, Dan Rice.

The choice created one of the most memorable family moments of All-Star Week.

Rice was eliminated in the opening round after hitting seven home runs, but he described the experience as a personal success because he shared the stage with his father in front of a national audience.

Ben Rice Home Runs

Rice has rapidly become one of the Yankees’ premier power hitters.

Highlights of his career include:

• First Yankees rookie to hit three home runs in one game.
• Continued improvement as one of New York’s top offensive players.
• Developed into one of the American League’s rising sluggers.

By the All-Star break in 2026, Rice had become one of the Yankees’ home run leaders and one of baseball’s breakout stars.

Ben Rice and the New York Yankees

The Yankees have a long tradition of elite power hitters, including Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Reggie Jackson, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Aaron Judge, and many others.

Rice has embraced that tradition.

His left-handed swing fits Yankee Stadium perfectly, and his ability to drive the ball to all fields has made him an important offensive weapon.

His versatility also adds value because he has experience playing:

• First Base
• Designated Hitter
• Catcher

That flexibility gives the Yankees additional lineup options throughout the season.

Ben Rice HR Derby Performance

Although Rice’s first Home Run Derby ended earlier than expected, fans appreciated his enthusiasm and sportsmanship.

Key moments included:

• First career Home Run Derby appearance.
• Father Dan Rice pitched every ball.
• Emotional embrace after the final swing.
• Received strong support from teammates and fans.

Rice later admitted that the excitement and adrenaline affected his timing, but he said he would gladly participate again in the future.

Ben Rice Age

Ben Rice was born on February 22, 1999.

As of the 2026 MLB season, he is 27 years old, placing him among the younger stars already making a major impact for the Yankees.

His age suggests that his best seasons may still lie ahead.

Ben Rice’s Dad

One of the biggest stories surrounding Rice is his close relationship with his father, Dan Rice.

Dan played college baseball as a pitcher at Brown University and spent years throwing batting practice to Ben during his childhood and every offseason.

When Ben received his Home Run Derby invitation, choosing his father as pitcher was an easy decision.

Rice has often credited his father for helping develop both his swing and his love for baseball.

Their emotional appearance together became one of the defining images of the 2026 All-Star festivities.

Why Ben Rice Is Becoming a Yankees Star

Several factors have fueled Rice’s rapid rise:

• Excellent plate discipline.
• Natural left-handed power.
• Ability to hit both fastballs and breaking pitches.
• Strong work ethic.
• Defensive versatility.
• Calm approach under pressure.

These qualities have earned him increased playing time and growing confidence from the Yankees coaching staff.

Strengths at the Plate

Rice continues to improve in several offensive areas:

• Home run power
• Hard-hit contact
• Plate discipline
• On-base percentage
• Ability to hit in clutch situations

His swing mechanics allow him to generate impressive exit velocity without sacrificing contact.

Future Outlook

At only 27 years old, Rice appears poised to become a cornerstone of the Yankees’ lineup.

If he continues producing at his current pace, he could:

• Earn multiple All-Star selections.
• Return to future Home Run Derbies.
• Become one of the American League’s premier power hitters.
• Help lead New York in postseason competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Ben Rice?

Ben Rice is a professional baseball player for the New York Yankees who plays first base, designated hitter, and catcher.

How old is Ben Rice?

Ben Rice is 27 years old during the 2026 MLB season.

Did Ben Rice compete in the Home Run Derby?

Yes. He participated in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby but was eliminated in the first round after hitting seven home runs.

Who pitched to Ben Rice in the Home Run Derby?

His father, Dan Rice, threw batting practice pitches during the event.

Which MLB team does Ben Rice play for?

Ben Rice plays for the New York Yankees.

Conclusion

Ben Rice has emerged as one of baseball’s brightest young stars. His impressive power, versatility, and dedication have made him a valuable member of the New York Yankees. While his 2026 Home Run Derby ended in the opening round, the unforgettable father-son moment with Dan Rice became one of the highlights of All-Star Week. With youth, talent, and growing experience on his side, Rice appears well positioned to become a long-term force in Major League Baseball.