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Morneau day to day with stiff neck

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- New Rockies first baseman Justin Morneau hasn't played since Friday's Spring Training opener because of neck stiffness, the club announced Monday night.

The club said his availability is day to day.

Morneau, 32, signed a two-year, $12.5 million contract with the club during the offseason to replace the retired Todd Helton at first base.

Last season, Morneau hit .259 with 17 home runs and 77 RBIs between the Twins and Pirates. He went 7-for-24 (.292) in six postseason games.

Second baseman Josh Rutledge did not play at all Monday because of a recurrence of left ankle soreness, and his availability is also day to day.

Thomas Harding is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @harding_at_mlb.
Read More: Colorado Rockies, Justin Morneau