Why Ben Rice’s first base skills could be crucial for his Yankees roster spot

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Ben Rice is firmly in the mix to break camp as the Yankees’ backup catcher, but manager Aaron Boone wants to ensure the left-handed hitter continues working at first base. That positional versatility, coupled with Rice’s offensive potential, could be a key factor when the Yankees finalize their Opening Day roster next month.

“I want to keep that first base flexibility with him because I do really believe in the bat,” Boone said Wednesday after the Yankees’ first spring training workout. “To have that flexibility—he’s gained good experience over there at first base now—but the feeling is that he can handle catching, too. He’s good enough physically to do all the things you need to as a catcher. I think having that flexibility is valuable. A lot of the focus will obviously be on catching this spring, but I want to keep the first base stuff in the mix.”

Can Ben Rice’s versatility and bat earn him an MLB role?

Ben Rice primarily played catcher during his rise through the Yankees’ system, but the organization’s depth at the position led to increased playing time at first base in the minors. The shift allowed him to stay in the lineup consistently and further develop offensively.

That experience became crucial last summer when Anthony Rizzo landed on the injured list. Rice was called up for the first time and made an immediate impact, highlighted by his three-home run game at Yankee Stadium on July 6. Through his first 17 MLB games, he hit .294 with a .972 OPS, demonstrating his ability to control the strike zone and make hard contact. However, his production declined over the remainder of the season. In 50 games and 178 plate appearances, he finished with a .171/.264/.349 slash line and a 27 percent strikeout rate.

As things stand, Ben Rice’s most realistic path to playing time in 2025 is as a backup option, serving as the No. 2 catcher behind Austin Wells while also providing depth at first base behind Paul Goldschmidt. The competition for that role, however, will be challenging.

Alex Jackson, acquired from the Reds in the Jose Trevino trade this offseason, is regarded as an elite defender. While his offensive numbers have been underwhelming, his right-handed bat could make him an appealing option to complement Wells.

Another catcher to watch in camp is J.C. Escarra. Like Ben Rice, the Yankees value his bat, and he will turn 30 in April as he continues striving for his MLB debut. The Yankees showed confidence in him by adding him to their 40-man roster last November.

When asked about the importance of experience in the catching competition, Boone acknowledged that the Yankees lack a veteran presence behind the plate this spring. That absence could work in Rice’s favor, as his 50 games of big-league experience set him apart from some of his competition.

“We feel really good about our catching crew,” Boone said. “We don’t have a ton of guys with a lot of experience, and that’s okay.”

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