Ben Rice hits two homers as Yankees defeat Rays 9-2

Ben Rice hit his 40th and 41st home runs as the New York Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 9-2 on Wednesday night. Gerrit Cole pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and striking out eight batters. Rice's leadoff homer came on the first pitch of the game, and he added another solo homer in the fourth inning. Ryan McMahon contributed with a grand slam, matching his career high with five RBIs. The Yankees secured a playoff spot, while the Rays had clinched the AL East title just a day prior. Both teams are preparing for the postseason, with the Yankees likely to face Boston in the AL Wild Card Series.

• 2:06 AMYahoo Sports — Ben Rice hits 40th and 41st homers as Yankees beat Rays 9-2 a day after Tampa Bay clinches AL East