Ben Rice Hit Grand Slam in Yankees Victory
The rookie slugger launched a massive eighth-inning grand slam to seal a win over the Boston Red Sox.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Baseball
Ben Rice propelled the New York Yankees to victory over the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series. The first baseman hit two home runs in the contest, including a decisive grand slam in the eighth inning.
Why it matters
The performance provided a significant boost to the Yankees in the opening game of their playoff series. It established momentum for the team as they look to advance in the American League Wild Card competition.
Rice hit his grand slam 408 feet to center field with an exit velocity of 108.6 mph off of Brayan Bello. The blast pushed the Yankees to a 9-0 lead in the eighth inning.
The players
Ben Rice
He is a professional baseball player who serves as a first baseman for the New York Yankees.
Brayan Bello
He is a professional baseball pitcher who plays for the Boston Red Sox.
The details
Ben Rice connected on a pitch from Brayan Bello with two outs and the bases loaded to break the game open at Yankee Stadium. This effort marked the second home run of the day for the slugger.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: The game was played as Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series.
Season Trajectory
This win positions the New York Yankees favorably in the best-of-three American League Wild Card Series. It shifts the pressure to the Boston Red Sox to win the subsequent games to remain in contention for the divisional playoff bracket.
The Yankees now hold a 1-0 lead in the series, putting them one victory away from advancing to the next playoff round. The team's offensive production in this game indicates a potential shift in momentum for the remainder of the series.
The takeaway
Rice demonstrated his ability to perform under high-stakes playoff pressure with a multi-homer performance. His power hitting in the middle of the order significantly changes the outlook for the Yankees' playoff advancement.
Further reading
For more news on the team's postseason run, visit the Baseball section.
