Video summary
Ben Rice reflected on his team's victory against the Toronto Blue Jays, highlighting Trent Grisham's exceptional patience at the plate as a key factor in the win. During a high-leverage situation in the sixth inning, Grisham successfully waited for quality pitches before making contact, demonstrating the consistent approach that defines his game. Rice expressed great admiration for this performance, noting that it was exactly what fans expect from him and praising how he handled the pressure of the moment to contribute significantly to the team's success.
The conversation then shifted to Rice's own experience stepping up with the bases loaded against left-handed pitcher Flu Hardy. Despite facing a barrage of sliders designed to move away from him, Rice emphasized the importance of staying focused within himself and trusting his ability to let the ball travel naturally. He described these high-pressure moments as some of the most exciting situations in baseball, where the energy of the crowd and the anticipation make it a dream scenario for any hitter. His goal in those instances is simply to embrace the opportunity and execute with confidence, turning the excitement into productive at-bats.
Rice also took time to praise teammate Spencer Jones, who earned the Player of the Week award after recording three hits and an RBI. He noted that Jones has been wearing his belt recently and expressed genuine enjoyment in watching his growth, particularly observing how every ball put in play by Jones seems to be hit hard lately. Rice joked that he might have to keep wearing the belt for a while longer given Jones's current hot streak, acknowledging the fun and competitive spirit that comes from having such a talented teammate thriving on the field.
Finally, Rice discussed the significant boost provided by the return of Cody Bellinger to the lineup every day. Beyond just his offensive contributions, Rice stressed that Bellinger's presence in the clubhouse means everything to the entire team, bringing a positive energy and leadership that has been a joy to have back. The win over Toronto was celebrated as a nice team effort, with Rice thanking everyone for their support and looking forward to continuing the momentum built by these key performances and strong clubhouse dynamics.
Read the full video transcript
Nice team win for you guys this
afternoon. Trent Grisham a big part of
it. How impressed were you with his
patience at the plate there in that
sixth inning?
>> Amazing. I mean, that's
that's just what he does. Goes up there,
tries to get good pitches to hit.
High leverage situation there. Just more
of the same from him.
>> You went up after him to the plate with
the bases loaded as well. They brought
in Flu Hardy. He threw you a slew of
sliders. How were you able to make sure
you didn't expand the zone there and
wait till you found something you can
hit?
>> Yeah, he's he's a tough lefty to face. I
mean, everything's just working away
from you.
Just got to stay within yourself there.
Try to let the ball travel as best you
can and then hopefully keep it in the
air.
>> Hey, what do you like about coming up in
those situations? Bases loaded.
>> Oh, it's it's a lot of fun. I mean,
those are the those are the situations
you dream about. You know, you can hear
the crowd getting into it. Everybody
getting excited.
So, you just got to embrace it as best
you can and go up there try to execute.
>> Another nice day for Spencer Jones.
Three hits for him
including an RBI. He's been wearing your
belt for player of the week and he's
clearly a big fan of you, but have you
been a fan of his growth since he has
been up here?
>> Yeah, absolutely.
It's been it's been really fun to watch.
I mean, seems now these last few games,
I mean, everything he puts in play is
just absolutely pummeled.
So, I might have to keep wearing that
belt.
>> [laughter]
>> And what type of boost is it for you
guys to get Cody Bellinger back in this
lineup every day?
>> Oh, it's great. I mean, you know, not
just in the lineup, but but to have him
in the clubhouse just his presence means
means everything to us and
it's it's been a joy to have him back.
>> Ben, appreciate the time.
Congratulations on the win.
>> Thanks.