TAMPA — Ben Rice Faces Neck Pain
Ben Rice is currently dealing with some neck pain, possibly a result of how opposing pitchers viewed him last season.
This past Saturday, Rice shared that during the opening days of spring training, he hasn’t managed to hit with his teammates yet. He has been struggling with a recent sleep disorder alongside a minor neck issue.
He’s seeking treatment for his neck and is optimistic about getting back to swinging soon.
“I think we’ve all had that experience of waking up in a different position than we fell asleep in,” Rice noted.
Despite his neck troubles, Rice did participate in Carlos Rodon’s bullpen session later that morning. He continues to juggle responsibilities as the Yankees’ regular first baseman while also working behind the plate this season.
Chase Hampton, recovering from Tommy John surgery last March, completed his eighth bullpen session on Saturday as part of his rehabilitation from a full UCL reconstruction.
Just two years ago, Hampton was regarded as one of the Yankees’ top pitching prospects. Unfortunately, he has only pitched 18 2/3 innings over the last two seasons due to elbow issues. He expressed relief at being included on the club’s 40-man roster this winter, which protects him from the Rule 5 draft, indicating that the Yankees still see a future for him.
“It really lightened the load for me,” Hampton said. “I can take my time to adjust without the pressure of needing to perform right away. I feel good about where I am and intend to keep improving each day.”
Later that afternoon, pitchers Will Warren and Ryan Yarbrough each threw two innings of live batting practice. Warren impressively struck out both Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt, while Amed Rosario fanned Yarbrough during a strong batting performance.
Rule 5 draft pick Cade Winquest also took the mound against batters and generated a solid showing, according to Aaron Boone.
The remaining Yankees position players, those not participating in the WBC, are set to arrive at camp on Sunday. Meanwhile, Cam Schrittler is still nursing mid-back and left latissimus dorsi inflammation while continuing to play catch.
