Bold statement: The Yankees are facing an early-season hurdle with key players sidelined, yet there are encouraging signs of resilience as others step up. But here’s where it gets controversial: will Ben Rice’s minor neck issue open the door for more versatile use at the plate and behind it, or will it limit his spring-ready rhythm? And this is the part most people miss: a “minor” ailment can ripple through rotations and lineup plans if not managed carefully.
The New York Yankees will begin the season without Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Anthony Volpe due to injuries. Cam Schlitter is dealing with a back issue that isn’t expected to derail him long term. Meanwhile, catcher Ben Rice is coping with a neck issue that isn’t tied to any on-field activity.
Rice described the situation as something many players experience: waking up with stiffness after sleeping in an awkward position. He told reporters (via Greg Joyce of the New York Post) that the problem is minor and shouldn’t affect him through spring training in a lasting way. He has not yet been in the batting cages, though he did catch Rodón’s bullpen session on Saturday.
In terms of role, Rice is likely to be the secondary catcher behind Austin Wells this season. He is expected to receive the bulk of his playing time at first base, even after the Yankees re-signed Paul Goldschmidt.
Rice had a breakthrough season, posting an .836 OPS with 26 home runs and 65 RBIs over 138 games.
For more on Ben Rice and the Yankees, visit AMNY.com.
