As the New York Yankees gear up for the postseason, outfielder Ben Rice is hitting a career-high stride, showcasing the power and on-base ability that has made him a crucial part of the team's offense. With Aaron Judge back in the lineup, Rice has found a comfortable rhythm, batting .333 with 14 RBIs in his last 23 games since August 19.

Rice has taken over as the regular leadoff hitter against right-handed pitching, a role he appears poised to maintain heading into October. His recent performance includes multiple times reaching base in 16 of his last 23 games and hitting home runs in three of his last nine contests. This resurgence follows a period where his numbers dipped after Judge's absence.

Manager Aaron Boone noted Rice's improved plate discipline. "I feel like right now, he’s doing a really good job of controlling the zone and there’s obviously always that threat of slug in there," Boone said. "Feel like Benny’s in a good spot right now, hopefully at just the right time to be at his best."

Rice's 38 home runs on the season place him in a tie for second most in the American League, trailing only Junior Caminero of the Rays. This power surge has been vital for the Yankees, especially during the extended absence of Aaron Judge earlier in the season. Prior to Judge's injury on May 31, Rice was hitting .306 with a 1.056 OPS and 17 home runs in 54 games. While his numbers saw a decrease in the following 66 games, hitting .204 with a .727 OPS and 16 home runs, he has since reignited his offensive game.

"I love it," Judge said of Rice's leadoff role. "Great at-bats, he can pop a homer like he did [Sunday] to start off the game for us, or he’s going to give you a 9-, 10-pitch at-bat. When he’s leading off like that, I want him getting the most at-bats."

If Rice, Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Luis García Jr. can maintain their offensive production, the Yankees could boast a formidable top of the lineup heading into the playoffs. Boone has acknowledged Rice's development throughout the season, stating, "He’s obviously had a great season on balance. I think he’s done a great job of, he’s obviously had some real hot stretches. Had a stretch where he struggled a little bit, but kind of weathered that storm too."