What happened: Ahead of the 96th MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia, Ben Rice participated in the televised pregame festivities presented by Mastercard. The New York Yankees standout discussed his progression through the first half of the schedule following his recent AL Player of the Week selection where he recorded five home runs and 12 RBI. He secured his spot in the American League starting lineup following a strong July fan-ballot push.

Why it matters: Rice's offensive production has been critical for New York, which owns MLB's fourth-best record approaching the July 30 trade deadline. His emergence provides valuable stability in the lineup with two weeks of games remaining before front offices finalize second-half rosters. Continued contributions from the first-year All-Star will be pivotal as the club navigates a tight postseason race.

What to watch: The 96th MLB All-Star Game takes place tonight in Philadelphia at 8 p.m. ET on FOX. New York will then resume its regular-season schedule with two weeks of games leading into the July 30 trade deadline.