Ben Rice – New York Yankees Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Ben Rice is quickly becoming a name to watch in Major League Baseball. Born on February 22, 1999, in Cohasset, Massachusetts, Rice joined the New York Yankees as their 12th-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft after playing college ball at Dartmouth. The promising catcher/first baseman signed a one-year deal with the Yankees worth $782,800, fully guaranteed. That’s also his average annual salary—pretty straightforward.

Rice’s journey to the majors shows a lot of grit and drive. Drafted 363rd overall, he climbed through the Yankees’ farm system to earn his shot on the big league roster. With his Dartmouth background, Rice brings a mix of athleticism and smarts to the field.

Even though he’s just getting started in pro ball, Rice already has the attention of both baseball analysts and Yankees fans. How he develops from here will be worth watching, especially if he keeps performing and lines himself up for a bigger contract down the road.

Early Life and Background

Ben Rice grew up in Massachusetts, and his early life and education eventually set him on the path to the Ivy League and then pro baseball.

Childhood in New York City

Despite what his Yankees uniform might suggest, Ben Rice didn’t actually grow up in New York City. He was born February 22, 1999, in Cohasset, Massachusetts—a small, coastal town just south of Boston.

Ben started playing ball in this New England town, picking up the game at an early age. He spent his childhood in local little leagues, learning the basics and building the foundation for his future career.

Massachusetts gave Rice plenty of chances to play in competitive youth leagues, but details about those early years mostly stay private compared to his life now.

Education and Family

Rice headed to Dartmouth College, where he took on the challenge of balancing academics and athletics. While at Dartmouth, he played college baseball and kept up with his studies, showing the discipline it takes to juggle both.

He grew up during the 1990s era of baseball, when the sport was shifting in style and attitude. That period probably had some influence on how he approaches the game today.

The Rice family tends to keep a low profile, even as Ben’s career picks up steam. The Yankees drafted him in 2021, 12th round, 363rd overall, right after his college years at Dartmouth. That marked the start of his professional journey.

His Ivy League background makes him stand out among pro athletes, highlighting his brains as well as his athletic skills.

Amateur Baseball Career

Ben Rice’s path through amateur baseball shows how he grew into a strong prospect, with real skills at both high school and college levels. Those years really set the stage for his pro career.

High School Achievements

Rice played ball at Cohasset High School in Massachusetts, where he quickly stood out as a top baseball talent. He showed off his left-handed swing and solid defense, catching the eye of college recruiters.

During high school, he picked up a few honors, including All-Conference selections. His swing and natural baseball instincts made him one of the more promising players in the area.

He also hit the showcase circuit, facing off against other top prospects. Those performances helped boost his profile with scouts.

College Milestones

At Dartmouth College, Rice kept his baseball career going at the Ivy League level. His college stats show he hit .242 with five doubles for the Big Green.

The college years were important, even with the COVID-19 pandemic cutting the 2020 season short. From 2019 to 2020, Rice played in a bunch of games and kept working on his craft.

Scouts took notice of his progress at Dartmouth, and the Yankees picked him in the 12th round of the 2021 MLB draft. That college experience gave him a solid base for the jump to pro ball and showed he was more than just a flash in the pan.

Professional Career

Ben Rice’s pro journey has moved fast—from draft pick to big leaguer with the Yankees. His time in the minors highlighted his offense and his ability to play multiple positions.

Yankees Prospect Journey

The Yankees took Rice in the 12th round of the 2021 MLB draft out of Dartmouth. After signing, he wasted no time making a name for himself as a hitter with real upside.

Rice’s college numbers were good but not eye-popping—he hit .242 with five doubles and two triples. But once he got to the minors, his progress really picked up.

He’s a lefty bat who can play both first base and catcher, which makes him even more valuable to the organization. That positional flexibility helped him move up the minor league ladder.

By early 2024, Rice had turned himself into a legit prospect with his steady hitting. Yankees management took notice, and he started popping up in conversations about a possible big-league call-up.

Major League Debut

Rice debuted in the majors with the Yankees in 2024, finally reaching the dream he’d been working toward. The team selected his contract when they needed some extra help at first base and catcher.

He came up at age 25, after working his way through the Yankees’ system. That first game was the payoff for all the years he spent grinding in the minors.

Rice signed a one-year deal worth $782,800, with the full amount guaranteed—a typical rookie contract for a newly promoted player.

He splits his time between first base and designated hitter, and he’s got catching experience, too. His left-handed bat gives the Yankees some lineup options.

Rice’s arrival in the majors shows the Yankees’ commitment to developing their own talent and giving guys from their system a real shot.

Playing Style and Strengths

Ben Rice has quickly shown he can be a real asset for the Yankees, thanks to his solid bat and growing defensive skills. He brings a good approach at the plate and can handle multiple spots in the field, which the Yankees definitely appreciate.

Hitting and Home Runs

Rice’s bat is probably his biggest selling point. As a lefty hitter, he brings a mix of power and contact that’s played well at every level so far. In 2023, he belted 20 home runs across three different minor league levels in just 73 games—pretty impressive.

His swing is compact and quick, letting him drive the ball to all fields. He’s got a good eye, too, and doesn’t chase much outside the zone.

Rice can hit for both average and power, which is a rare combo and helped him move up fast. He’s shown a knack for pull-side power but isn’t afraid to go the other way, either.

OPS and On-Field Metrics

The numbers back up what you see at the plate. In his breakout 2023 minor league season, Rice posted a 1.048 OPS with a .324 average, .434 OBP, and .615 slugging.

That kind of OPS shows he can:

• Work the count and draw walks
• Hit for average
• Bring real power
• Drive in runs (he had 68 RBI in 73 games)

Advanced stats say he makes quality contact, with good exit velocity and a launch angle that helps him hit for power. His high on-base percentage points to a sharp batting eye and solid pitch recognition.

Defensive Abilities

On defense, Rice brings versatility that the Yankees value. He splits his time between catcher and first base and handles both spots well enough.

Behind the plate, Rice keeps working on his receiving and framing. His arm is about average, but he gets rid of the ball quickly and can keep runners honest. Game-calling is still a work in progress, though he’s getting better.

At first base, he’s got solid fundamentals and good footwork. At 6’2″, he’s a good target for infield throws. The Yankees like that they can move him around and keep his bat in the lineup.

That ability to play more than one spot was a big reason the Yankees called him up when they did.

Notable Achievements and Highlights

Ben Rice has already made a splash in pro ball since the Yankees drafted him in 2021. His climb from Dartmouth to the majors comes with a few highlights that have caught the eye of fans and analysts.

All-Star Selections

Rice is still new to the majors—he only made his big league debut in 2024—but he earned some recognition in the minors. His steady hitting and power put him on the map as a prospect.

He picked up team honors in the minors for his bat and on-base skills. No MLB All-Star nod yet, but if he keeps trending up, you have to think it’s possible down the line.

His offense and defensive work at first base have him on the radar for future All-Star talk.

Championship Contributions

Rice gained valuable experience in championship settings at different levels. At Dartmouth, he helped the team compete in the Ivy League.

With the Yankees, Rice has been part of their development programs aimed at building a winning culture. His work in the minors added depth to the Yankees’ first base options.

With a contract through 2025 at $782,800, the Yankees clearly see him as a possible contributor to their title hopes. His lefty bat adds flexibility, and if he keeps improving, he could play a key role in a future World Series run.

Recent Developments and Collaborations

Since breaking into the majors, Ben Rice has already started building important relationships with his Yankees teammates. Those connections have helped him settle in and find early success.

Playing with Oswaldo Cabrera

Rice’s partnership with Oswaldo Cabrera stands out in the Yankees’ infield. The two young players have developed a good communication system when they’re on the right side together.

They put in extra time during spring training, working on bunt coverage and double plays. That effort has paid off with smooth teamwork during games.

“Oswaldo makes everything easier,” Rice said after a recent home series. “His versatility allows me to focus on my responsibilities at first base.”

The chemistry goes beyond the field—they’re often spotted reviewing game footage together in the clubhouse. Even though Cabrera is young himself, he’s shared tips with Rice on handling major league pitching.

Impact of Juan Soto

Adding Juan Soto to the Yankees lineup has really helped Rice develop. Hitting near a star like Soto takes some heat off the rookie first baseman and gives him valuable lineup protection.

Rice has talked about how much he studies Soto’s approach at the plate—especially his pitch selection and timing. Because the veteran outfielder is in the lineup, pitchers can’t just focus on Rice, and he ends up seeing better pitches.

The numbers back this up: Rice’s OPS jumps by almost 100 points when Soto plays. That’s a real, concrete boost, and it says a lot about how much lineup construction can matter for a young player.

“Watching Juan’s preparation is like getting a master class every day,” Rice said. “I try to take pieces of his approach and use them myself.”

MLB Contract Details

Ben Rice’s contract with the New York Yankees marks a big step in his baseball career. The financial terms and how the deal came together show just how much the Yankees believe in this young player.

Contract Value and Terms

Right now, Ben Rice plays on a one-year contract worth $782,800 for the 2025 season. He’s in pre-arbitration with the Yankees, so he hasn’t built up enough service time yet to negotiate a bigger salary.

The Yankees called Rice up from the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders in June 2024, as Joel Sherman of the New York Post reported. That move to the big league roster was a huge moment for him.

His average annual value (AAV) sits at about $783,000—pretty standard for someone just breaking into MLB.

Negotiation Process

People have paid attention to how Rice’s contract came together. The Yankees made it clear they’re high on him, and some experts think he could end up landing deals worth $50+ million per year down the road.

Rice’s path started at Dartmouth University (2019-2020), where he hit .242 with nine runs, five doubles, and two triples. That college experience set the stage for his pro career.

By selecting his contract in 2024, the Yankees showed real trust in his skills at both catcher and first base. That flexibility definitely helped his case during contract talks with the team.

Net Worth and Financial Standing

Ben Rice’s finances are still taking shape as he settles into life with the Yankees. As a rookie, most of his money comes from his baseball contract and maybe a few early endorsement deals.

Estimated Net Worth

Rice’s net worth is still pretty modest compared to big-league veterans. His main income is his pre-arbitration contract with the Yankees—$782,800 for 2025.

He just made his MLB debut on June 18, 2024, and with only 0.076 years of service time as of January 2025, his career earnings haven’t piled up yet.

Most likely, his net worth falls somewhere between $500,000 and $1 million, which is typical for a promising rookie. This estimate includes his signing bonus for being picked in the [12th round (363rd overall) of the 2021 MLB Draft](https://www.milb.com/player/ben-rice-700250) out of Dartmouth.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Now that Rice is in the majors, some endorsements are starting to come his way, though nothing huge yet. The Yankees’ brand definitely helps their players get noticed, especially around New York.

Rice probably has some basic equipment deals for gloves, bats, and cleats—usually just free gear at this stage, not big money.

Locally, he might get invited to make appearances at sports stores, run baseball camps, or do some regional ads. For a player just starting out, those deals usually bring in anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000.

His Dartmouth background and clean-cut image make him a good fit for brands that want athletes with strong academics.

Personal Life and Interests

Off the field, Ben Rice keeps things pretty balanced. He values his relationships and likes to stay busy with different interests. He’s also committed to giving back, which says a lot about his character.

Charity and Community Work

Since his days at Dartmouth, Ben Rice has cared about charitable causes. While playing in the minors, he took part in several community outreach events.

He often visits children’s hospitals in New York and back home in Cohasset, Massachusetts. Youth baseball is close to his heart, and he hosts clinics for kids who might not otherwise get a chance to play.

“Giving back was something my parents instilled in me early,” Rice said in the clubhouse. “Baseball has given me so much, and I feel it’s my responsibility to share that with others.”

He also supports literacy programs. Before the Yankees drafted him in the 12th round in 2021, he majored in English at Dartmouth.

Off-Field Pursuits

Born in Cohasset, MA, Ben Rice likes to fish in the off-season, heading back to the New England coast whenever he can. It’s his way to relax and stay connected to home.

He’s a big reader and even runs a book club with a few teammates. His taste ranges from history to modern novels, which fits his academic side.

Rice is also into cooking, often trying out healthy recipes that fit his training. Teammates have mentioned he’s pretty good at whipping up nutritious pre-game meals.

He’s hinted at an interest in sports broadcasting after baseball. Sometimes, he joins Yankees media events and seems comfortable on camera, offering solid analysis of the game.

Legacy and Future Outlook

Ben Rice’s baseball story is just starting, but he’s already making waves. How he develops could shape the Yankees’ plans—and maybe even shift things a bit in Major League Baseball.

Potential for Growth

Rice has shown real promise early on. Before his call-up, he hit .275 with a .925 OPS in AA/AAA, and he launched 15 homers in the minors.

He’s got a batting approach that mixes power with good contact, making him a real asset on offense. The fact that he can play both catcher and first base only boosts his value to the Yankees.

At 25, he still needs to sharpen his skills, especially against top-tier pitching. How he adjusts to big-league breaking balls and off-speed stuff will decide how fast he becomes a regular.

Rice’s development curve looks steep, thanks in part to his time at Dartmouth, which set a strong foundation.

Impact on Yankees and MLB

Rice joined the Yankees at a key moment. With his contract at $782,800, he gives the team solid production for a bargain price, which helps as they juggle bigger contracts elsewhere.

The Yankees made a statement by giving Rice the first shot at first base. His play could affect how they handle free agency and trades in the near future.

Rice fits into a bigger MLB trend where teams use analytics to speed up player development. If he thrives, it’ll only encourage more of that approach.

For the Yankees, Rice brings much-needed left-handed power and flexibility. Manager Aaron Boone now has more options, since Rice can catch or play first.

Fans and analysts will keep a close eye on Rice as he tries to carve out his spot among the latest wave of Yankee talent in the Bronx.

Influential Figures and Mentors

Several mentors inside the Yankees organization have played a big part in Ben Rice’s growth as a pro ballplayer. These relationships have been key to his early progress and could shape his future success.

Role of Steve Cohen

Yeah, everyone knows Steve Cohen as the guy who owns the New York Mets, but honestly, his reach goes way beyond that. He’s made waves across baseball, and you can even spot his influence on up-and-coming players like Ben Rice. Cohen keeps pouring money into player development, and it’s sort of forced the rest of MLB to step up their game.

For Yankees prospect Ben Rice, that means he’s now in a league where teams actually care about helping young guys grow. The Yankees, for example, saw Cohen’s aggressive moves and decided to bulk up their own development programs. Guys like Rice definitely get the benefits from that shift.

Cohen’s wild contracts have also changed the way teams and players think about money. So, as Rice works his way up with the Yankees on his $782,800 contract, he’s stepping into a financial world that owners like Cohen helped create. That’ll probably come into play when Rice starts talking about future deals.

People have tossed around the idea of Paul Goldschmidt acting as a mentor for Rice in a possible platoon situation. Honestly, having a veteran like that around could make a real difference for Rice as he learns the ropes at first base.