Yankees’ Kay takes a playful jab at Ben Rice’s curtain call confusion

Yankees teammates guides rookie Ben Rice to the curtain call at Yankee Stadium after hitting three homers against the Red Sox on July 6, 2024.
Sara Molnick
Sunday July 7, 2024

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Yankees rookie first baseman Ben Rice made franchise history on Saturday, becoming the first Yankees rookie to hit three home runs in a single game. This remarkable performance came at a critical time for the team, which had been struggling, losing 15 of their last 20 games prior to the matchup against the Boston Red Sox.

Ben Rice’s historic day included seven RBIs, with his final home run coming in the seventh inning off Red Sox reliever Chase Anderson. Play-by-play announcer Michael Kay enthusiastically called the moment, underscoring the significance of the Yankees rookie’s achievement and its impact on the game.

Yankees' Ben Rice during a game against the Red Sox on June 6, 2024.
Yankees

“Driven out to right field and deep,” he thundered. “There it goes! What a day for Ben Rice! Another three-run shot! My oh my! What a day for the rookie!”

Ben Rice’s post-game curtain call, however, was humorously awkward. Teammates had to guide him to the correct spot in the dugout, leading to good-natured teasing from Kay.

After his third homer, teammate Aaron Judge urged fans to cheer louder and encouraged the rookie to step out of the dugout for a curtain call.

Initially confused by the request, Ben Rice fumbled to find the right exit from the dugout. His teammates eventually guided him to the correct spot, where the Yankees rookie was met with a thunderous ovation from the crowd, eager for something to celebrate during the team’s recent struggles.

Ben Rice thought his inexperience was evident during his curtain call. Teammates had to guide him to the correct spot in the dugout, while Juan Soto paused at the plate to ensure he received his deserved recognition.

Ben Rice’s historic three-home run performance was followed by an unexpectedly awkward curtain call. Fans, eager to celebrate his achievement, called for the rookie to make an appearance, but he appeared uncertain about the protocol.

Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay narrated the scene, noting Rice’s confusion about where to go for the curtain call. Kay appealed to veteran players to guide Rice to the correct spot in the dugout for his moment of recognition.

Once Rice found his way, he was met with a thunderous ovation from the New York crowd. Kay described the moment as giving him “chills,” emphasizing its emotional impact.

This moment of levity added a humorous touch to an otherwise monumental day for the rookie and the team.

“They want a curtain call! He doesn’t know where to go… Show him the way! Wow… Chills,” the Yankees voice said.

Yankees' Aaron Judge during a game against the Red Sox on June 6, 2024.
Yankees

His three-homer performance provided the spark the Yankees had been seeking, potentially marking a turning point in their recent slump. His historic feat not only etched his name in Yankees lore but also gave the team a much-needed boost in their rivalry game against the Red Sox.

This incident provided a light-hearted moment amidst the Yankees‘ recent struggles, with Kay gently teasing Rice about his inexperience with curtain calls. Despite the minor awkwardness, Rice’s performance stood out as a highlight for the Yankees organization, offering a much-needed positive moment in their challenging season.

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