Aaron Judge Returns: Yankees Demand More From Ben Rice

**Aaron Judge** is set to rejoin the New York Yankees after a stint on the injured list, and the club is urging **Ben Rice** to step up his performance in the interim. On **July 5, 2026**, Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasized that the team cannot afford sub‑par outings from the rookie left‑hander while waiting for Judge’s return.

Rice, who debuted earlier this season, has struggled to find consistency. In his last three starts, he posted an ERA above 6.00 and allowed five walks in just 4 ⅔ innings. Boone noted that the Yankees need a pitcher who can give the bullpen breathing room, especially with the rotation shuffled to accommodate Judge’s rehab schedule. The pressure is real; a single bad outing can swing a tight AL East race.

Judge’s injury has forced the Yankees to reshuffle the batting order. Without his 30‑plus home run power, the team has leaned on Giancarlo Stanton and Juan Soto to fill the slugging gap. On **June 30**, the Yankees managed only two runs in a 5‑2 loss to the Boston Red Sox, highlighting the offensive dip. Judge’s return is expected to restore balance, allowing the team to swing the bat deeper in the middle of the order.

Boone confirmed that Judge is on a 10‑day rehab assignment starting **July 8**, with a projected activation date of **July 18** if all goes well. The Yankees will face the Toronto Blue Jays on **July 10**, a game that could serve as a litmus test for Rice’s adjustments. A solid performance there would buy the team extra innings before Judge steps back into the lineup.

The AL East race is tighter than ever. As of **July 5**, the Yankees sit two games behind the Baltimore Orioles. Every win counts, and the bullpen has already logged 28 innings over the past week. If Rice can deliver a quality start, it eases the burden on relievers like Clarke Schmidt and Luis Severino, preserving them for high‑leverage situations once Judge is back.

Judge’s presence in the lineup often forces opposing managers to pitch around power hitters, indirectly benefiting the Yankees’ pitchers. With him back, the rotation can afford to be more aggressive, knowing the offense can provide run support. Boone hinted that the team might shift Rice to a bullpen role temporarily, giving him shorter outings while he refines his command.

Fans have been vocal on social media, urging the front office to make a move for a more reliable left‑hander. The pressure is palpable at Yankee Stadium, where chants for “Judge back!” echo each night. A strong showing from Rice could quiet the criticism and keep the crowd energized until the home run king returns.

The next few weeks will be a test of depth. With Judge slated to return by mid‑July, the Yankees must navigate a packed schedule that includes series against the Tampa Bay Rays and the Houston Astros. Success hinges on whether Rice can tighten his command and whether the bullpen can hold the line. The team’s ability to adapt now will shape its postseason chances.

**Bottom line:** Aaron Judge’s imminent return is a beacon for the Yankees, but the onus is on Ben Rice to deliver solid outings in the meantime. The next start on **July 10** could be the turning point that keeps New York in the hunt.