The Yankees are sticking with Paul Goldschmidt at first base for the second straight game, and Ben Rice supporters aren’t happy about it.
Aaron Boone announced Tuesday on Talkin’ Yanks that the 38-year-old veteran gets another start, this time against Angels lefty Reid Detmers. It’s a decision that’s raising eyebrows across Yankees territory.
Aaron Boone tells us Paul Goldschmidt will start over Ben Rice once again tonight against LHP Reid Detmers pic.twitter.com/ybZzHRktgf
— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) April 14, 2026
Look, there’s logic here. Goldschmidt absolutely rakes against lefties – his .981 OPS in 149 at-bats against southpaws last season proves that. The guy knows how to handle left-handed pitching.
But here’s the thing that’s got people talking: Rice isn’t just the first baseman of the future. He’s one of the best hitters in baseball right now.
Rice leads the entire league with a 1.253 OPS. That’s not a typo. He’s been that good.
The way I see it, Rice won’t get better against lefties sitting on the bench. Goldschmidt’s got Hall of Fame credentials, but benching your rising star two days running feels like you’re overthinking things.
Yesterday’s game showed how Boone’s trying to thread the needle. Rice came in as a pinch hitter for Amed Rosario in the fifth, then took over at first while Ryan McMahon moved to third. It worked, but it’s not exactly a long-term solution.
The Real Challenge
Boone’s got to find a way to keep Goldschmidt’s bat in the lineup without stunting Rice’s development. That’s easier said than done when you’re dealing with a budding All-Star who needs consistent at-bats.
Starting Rice on the bench two straight games against a pitching staff like the Angels have? That doesn’t feel like the right move for a kid who’s been this locked in at the plate.
The Yankees didn’t trade for Goldschmidt to have him ride the bench, but they also can’t afford to slow down Rice’s momentum. It’s the kind of problem championship contenders face – too much talent, not enough positions.
