As regards handling I wouldn't worry at all - you've got a Royal / Ball python and they're always good to handle , I've got 5 currently but I've had and held many , many more and never come across one that I couldn't handle easily . They're nothing like baby Boas or Retics or Burms that do need regular handling ...
When you do get him feeding well maybe try with thawed frozen again , there are many tips to get them eating them ....
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