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56m ago

Yankees Define First-Base Plan: Ben Rice Named Starter as Paul Goldschmidt Returns in Specialist Role

Aaron Boone outlined Rice’s expanded workload as Goldschmidt shifts to pinch-hit and defensive duties versus left-handers.

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ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 6: Paul Goldschmidt #48 of the New York Yankees celebrates with teammate Ben Rice #22 after hitting a solo home run against the Texas Rangers during the seventh inning at Globe Life Field on August 6, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 05: Paul Goldschmidt #48 of the New York Yankees smiles during the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on September 5, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images)
Aug 4, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (48) in action during the game between the Texas Rangers and the New York Yankees at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Paul Goldschmidt agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract with up to $2 million in incentives, with MLB.com noting the deal awaits a 40-man roster move before becoming official.
  • Boone said Ben Rice has earned the everyday job at first base and is slated for an increased workload after more than 530 plate appearances last season.
  • Goldschmidt is slated for lefty-matchup at-bats plus late-inning defense, supported by his .981 OPS against southpaws in 2025.
  • Rice will continue to face left-handed pitching and could catch on occasion, but first base remains his primary position.
  • Goldschmidt said he is comfortable in whatever role the team needs, while GM Brian Cashman pushed back on the idea that New York is simply running it back.