Yankees Bullpen Catcher Takes Grand Slam Off Helmet in Viral Moment
A unique defensive play occurred as Ben Rice's home run landed squarely on a catcher's protective gear.
During Game 1 of the AL Wild Card series between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox, designated hitter Ben Rice hit a grand slam that gave the Yankees a commanding 9-0 lead. The home run ball landed in an unusual spot: directly on the helmet of a Yankees bullpen catcher.
As Rice's blast sailed toward the bullpen in right-center field, the catcher stood his ground and allowed the ball to hit him squarely on the helmet without flinching. The moment was captured and quickly became a viral sensation.
| Cam Schlittler #31 of the New York Yankees
Beyond the memorable bullpen incident, the Yankees' dominant performance was anchored by starting pitcher Cam Schlittler. Schlittler delivered a stellar outing, pitching 6.1 innings and allowing only two hits and one walk while striking out 10 batters. His performance was crucial in securing the victory for the Yankees.
| New York Yankees fans celebrate after a grand slam by designated hitter Ben Rice in the eighth inning. The Boston Red Sox played the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the 2026 Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium on September 29, 2026. (Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
The Yankees established an early lead in the second inning and extended it throughout the game. Rice's grand slam in the eighth inning sealed the victory, marking a significant performance for the designated hitter, who went 4-for-5 at the plate.
With this loss, the Red Sox face elimination in the best-of-three series and will have to contend with pitcher Max Fried in Game 2.