Ben Rice Falls in First Round of Home Run Derby — But It Was Still a 'Success' Doing It with Dad
Ben Rice's Home Run Derby experience in Philadelphia might not have ended in victory, but he and his father, Dan, had already declared it a success hours beforehand. The young baseball player finished with seven home runs, not enough to make it to the second round at Citizens Bank Park, but more importantly, he got to share the experience with his dad.
The father-son duo had been practicing their home run derby skills in their backyard in Cohasset, Massachusetts. They brought their backyard fun to a different decade and venue, still with dad pitching to his son. Ben's enthusiasm was palpable as he spoke to the media earlier in the day, "I think it's a can't-lose mentality for us. Going to go out there and enjoy ourselves, hopefully hit a bunch of homers, hopefully we win it. But if not, it was a success because my dad and I got to do it." His positive attitude and love for the experience are a testament to the special bond he shares with his father.
Ben's performance might not have been the best, but it's worth noting that he outdid Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s three home runs from last season. However, in this field, seven home runs were not enough to make it to the next round. The experience might not have been what Ben and his father had hoped for, but it's clear that the Home Run Derby has given them memories that will last a lifetime.
The experience has also shown that the love for the game of baseball transcends generations and borders. For Ben and his father, it's not about winning or losing, but about sharing the experience and making memories together. As Ben's father, Dan, would have been proud to see his son take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Now that the Home Run Derby is over, Ben and his father will have to wait and see what the future holds for the young baseball player. Will he get another chance to participate in the Home Run Derby or will he focus on developing his skills for the upcoming season? One thing is certain, Ben's experience in the Home Run Derby has shown that with the right attitude and love for the game, even the smallest of victories can be celebrated.
Source: NYPOST