Yankees Replace Struggling Volpe with Rookie Ben Rice at Leadoff

Anthony Volpe moved to sixth in the batting order as Yankees aim to boost top-of-the-lineup production.

Anthony Volpe's batting average dropped to .206 since May 30, prompting the change.
Ben Rice, with a .378 on-base percentage, takes over the leadoff spot.
Manager Aaron Boone emphasizes the need to 'optimize' the spot ahead of Juan Soto and Aaron Judge.
Volpe's adjustments have increased his groundball rate and reduced his power output.
The Yankees have lost 12 of their last 16 games, intensifying the need for lineup changes.