Yankees return Rice to leadoff spot after Angels series opener

The New York Yankees are moving Ben Rice back into the leadoff position for the second game of their series against the Los Angeles Angels. The decision follows a 10-1 loss in the opening game where the team struggled to generate offense. Rice finished the Monday matchup 0-for-4, extending a slump that spanned the month of August. During that time, the designated hitter posted a.184 batting average with a.304 on-base percentage and an.641 OPS. Despite these recent statistics, the organization plans to keep Rice at the top of the order to provide him with more at-bats. The move serves as an attempt to find a rhythm early in the game as the team looks to recover from the lopsided series-opening defeat. The Yankees continue their three-game set against the Angels with Rice expected back at the leadoff spot.

• 4:17 PMYahoo Sports — Yankees make lineup decision following 10-1 loss to Angels