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Let’s get this out of the way first: I’m fully backing Rice while he’s been holding down the Yankees since Giancarlo Stanton returned from the injured list. Clearly, Rice is making a strong case for himself.
This season, only four MLB players have recorded a higher average exit velocity than Rice: Oneil Cruz, Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and Pete Alonso. Rice looks more like a star destined for the cover of “MLB: The Show” than someone headed to Scranton.
However, once Stanton is activated, the Yankees will have extra depth at the designated hitter spot. Stanton is expected to start his minor league rehab assignments early this week after dealing with tendonitis in both elbows since spring training. Beyond his recovery, he will need some time to get back into game shape once he’s ready for the majors.
When that time comes, the Yankees’ management faces two key challenges. The front office must figure out how to bring Stanton back onto the roster without sending Rice away, while Aaron Boone and his coaching staff have to find ways for both players to get regular playing time.
The easier issue is roster management. Assuming no other injuries, the Yankees can option either Pablo Reyes or Oswald Peraza when Stanton returns. Peraza might have a slight advantage due to his experience as a shortstop, a position every team needs a reliable backup for—like Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has played 47 MLB games at shortstop and can step in if necessary.
It appears the Yankees aren’t seriously considering drastic roster moves like designating DJ LeMahieu for assignment or optioning JC Escalera, one of their two catchers. Jasson Dominguez is another option, but his spot isn’t in jeopardy either.
When Stanton is back, Boone will have to creatively manage playing time to keep Stanton, Rice, and first baseman Paul Goldschmidt regularly in the lineup—ideally with at least two of them playing in every three games. Boone can start by giving Stanton a lighter load and using Rice primarily against right-handed pitchers. Rice can rotate between first base and designated hitter. Though his natural position is catcher, he’s been working closely with catching coordinator Tanner Swanson and could occasionally start there. However, Escalera and Austin Wells serve as backup catchers and shouldn’t see their roles significantly reduced.
Recently, Rice has taken some ground balls at third base, but he isn’t considered a candidate to play there. The Yankees plan to restrict Rice’s defensive positions to just first base and catcher.
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Fan Take: This situation highlights the exciting depth the Yankees have this season, showing how young talent like Rice can flourish alongside established stars like Stanton. For baseball fans, this juggling act promises dynamic lineups and strategic decisions that could shape the team’s success and offer thrilling developments throughout the season.
