New York Yankees first baseman Ben Rice has expressed interest in participating in the 2026 Home Run Derby if invited by Major League Baseball. Rice, who ranks fifth in the league with 20 home runs, made the comments to the New York Post earlier this week.
Rice stated that he has not yet heard from organizers but would accept an invitation. "If I were to get asked to go, I would love to do it. I have not heard anything about it, but sure, I'd be interested," he said. He added that a few batting practice sessions would not affect his swing.
The 27-year-old has emerged as a strong power hitter after making adjustments in the minors and increasing his weight training. Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton remain sidelined with injuries and are not expected to return in time for the event.
The Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday, July 13, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. No participants have been announced yet. Jazz Chisholm Jr. was the most recent Yankee to compete, reaching the first round in 2025.