Overview
- Multiple MLB clubs have formally inquired about acquiring Rice for his offensive upside and positional flexibility ahead of the July 31 trade deadline.
- The Yankees have declared prospects Spencer Jones and George Lombard Jr. untouchable to safeguard their top farm talent.
- Rice is slashing .232/.323/.468 with 15 home runs this season after transitioning into New York’s regular first baseman.
- Defensive lapses at first base have tempered enthusiasm, even as Rice’s bat has emerged as a potential trade centerpiece.
- New York is weighing Rice-centric proposals to bolster its third base, bullpen depth and starting rotation for a postseason run.