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Yankees' Ben Rice reaches 40 home runs, joining exclusive franchise list

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 3:01 AM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Yankees' Ben Rice reaches 40 home runs, joining exclusive franchise list

Summary

Ben Rice hit his 40th home run of the season on September 23, 2026, during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. This achievement makes him only the second player in Yankees history, after Aaron Judge, to hit 40 home runs in a season after being drafted by the team. Rice's journey included being a 12th-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft from Dartmouth, where he faced early struggles but improved significantly. His success this season highlights his development from a minimal college career to a top bat in MLB rankings.

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By the Numbers

•Rice's 40th home run came in the first inning against the Rays.
•Only Aaron Judge and Rice have hit 40 home runs after being Yankees draft picks.
•Rice improved his swing and approach after initial struggles in the majors.
•He is only the 6th Yankees player to achieve a 40 home run season since 2000.

Latest Updates

3:01 AMYahoo Sports — Yankees’ Ben Rice Just 2nd Player in Franchise History With Home Run Feat

What they're saying

"
Ben Rice knew he got this one. That picture at the top of this article? That’s Rice watching his home run fly out of the ballpark on Wednesday night as the New York Yankees took on the Tampa Bay Rays. What Rice probably didn’t know is that this particular home run put him in an […] The post Yankees’ Ben Rice Just 2nd Player in Franchise History With Home Run Feat appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New York Yankees Tampa Bay Rays MLB Baseball