TAMPA — Elmer Rodriguez Heads to Puerto Rico

Elmer Rodriguez is set to pitch in Puerto Rico soon, where he’ll have the chance to showcase his skills in front of his family.

The Yankees pitching prospect made his second and final start on Thursday, contributing to a 7-3 win against the Braves. He displayed his pitching prowess, completing three innings with two runs allowed on two hits, one walk, and four strikeouts.

“I feel like that momentum is building,” Rodriguez said about the upcoming World Baseball Classic. “I’ll just keep going and see where I’m at in another week and a half.”

Rodriguez is optimistic about pitching for Puerto Rico in their third pool game against Cuba on March 9 at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan.

This event will be particularly special for the 22-year-old, as he hasn’t pitched in his home country since being drafted by the Red Sox in 2021 and traded to the Yankees for catcher Carlos Narvaez last winter.

“I’ve always wanted to pitch in front of my family,” Rodriguez shared. “I finally get the chance to pitch there, and all the Puerto Rican fans support me, so I’m just trying to go out there and put on a show for them.”

In other news, Giancarlo Stanton is expected to make his spring training debut soon—potentially on Sunday or Tuesday—as the Yankees take a cautious approach to ensure he stays healthy.

The veteran designated hitter has been managing elbow pain due to tendinitis and has primarily been active behind the scenes during the initial week of games. However, he was seen participating in right field during batting practice on Thursday morning.

“Nothing has changed,” said Boone. “He’s doing well. He’s ready to roll.”

Ryan McMahon also shone, hitting a two-run double off Carlos Carrasco in the first inning against the Braves, demonstrating his improved fielding with a shorter stance.

“He can do it,” Boone commented. “He can drive the ball the other way with authority.”

Joe Torre made an appearance at camp on Thursday, spending time around the batting cage before joining Boone during the game.

“I love having him around,” Boone expressed. “I just enjoy being around him. Men love seeing him, so as long as he wants to do it, I’ll keep asking him out.”

Meanwhile, Randal Grichuk, who agreed to a minor league contract with the Yankees on Wednesday night, had not yet arrived at camp by Thursday. Reports indicate that if he does join the team, he will receive $2.5 million.