Kaprielian is at peace with pace

TAMPA — Despite feeling like a “caged bull” and wanting to be out there with his teammates, James Kaprielian understands the Yankees’ approach to keep him at a “snail’s pace” during the spring.

“My job is not to question what’s going on,” said Kaprielian, who celebrated his 23rd birthday on Thursday as the Yankees defeated the Orioles 8-1 in an exhibition game at Steinbrenner Field. “My job is to take care of my work and get better every single day. I’m on board with whatever they do.”

Brian Cashman confirmed on Wednesday that Kaprielian is likely to only pitch in simulated games before opening his 2017 season in the warm weather at HighA Tampa. But the team’s first round pick in the 2015 MLB draft could potentially fast-track through the minors and make an impact for the big-league club later this season. He will be on an innings limit, although an exact number is unknown.

Kaprielian, who has already thrown two batting practice sessions, is slated to throw a bullpen session on Thursday and then throw his first sim game on either Sunday or Monday.

“I wouldn’t call it a disappointment, but I’m a competitive guy, and I want to be out there,” he said.

THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT

Red-hot Greg Bird hit his third homer of the spring — a two-run shot to deep right — to lead a 14-hit attack.

Gary Sanchez had two hits and veteran Matt Holliday blasted his first homer of the spring. Billy McKinney, added when Mason Williams and Tyler Austin went down due to injury, homered and drove in three runs.

Gleyber Torres, Jorge Mateo and Miguel Andujar all had hits. Adam Warren threw three strong innings, his lone blemish a misplaced two-seam fastball that Caleb Joseph crushed for a homer.

For what it’s worth, the Yankees are 7-1 in Grapefruit League play.

CC’S DEBUT TUESDAY

CC Sabathia threw a two-inning simulated game on Thursday and reported no issues. He says he will make his first start of the spring on Tuesday against the Rays at The Boss. “I feel good. I feel like I’m on the right track,” Sabathia said.

TANAKA TIME

Masahiro Tanaka will make his next start on Sunday against the Pirates at home.