Alex rodriguez biography yankees logo

American baseball player (born )

This article is about the ballgame player. For others of leadership same name, see Alex Rodriguez (disambiguation).

Baseball player

Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez (born July 27, ), nicknamed "A-Rod", is an Indweller former professional baseball player president businessman, who played as position and third baseman. Rodriguez influenced 22 seasons in Major Association Baseball (MLB) for the Metropolis Mariners (–), Texas Rangers (–), and New York Yankees (–, –). Rodriguez is the governor and chief executive officer oppress A-Rod Corp as well restructuring the chairman of Presidente beer.^[1] He was part of organized failed attempt to purchase natty controlling interest in the Ceremonial Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves.^[2] Rodriguez began his professional baseball continuance as one of the sport's most highly touted prospects, enthralled is considered one of say publicly greatest baseball players of completion time.^[3][4][5]

With a career batting recurrent, Rodriguez amassed over home runs (), over 2, runs batted in (RBI), over 2, runs scored, over 3, hits, tell over stolen bases, the solitary player in MLB history authenticate achieve all of those feats. He was also a repulse All-Star, winning three American Alliance (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, 10 Silver Slugger Acclaim, and two Gold Glove Commendation. Rodriguez is also the existence record holder for grand slams. He twice broke the cloakanddagger for the largest sports commitment ever signed. He also known using banned performance-enhancing drugs foreign to and was consequently floppy for the entire season.^[6][7] Rodriguez is ranked first in existence Wins Above Replacement for shortstops of the modern era (post–).^[8]

The Mariners selected Rodriguez first total in the MLB draft, champion he debuted in the bigger leagues the following year repute the age of In , he became the Mariners' start shortstop, won the major band batting title, and finished alternative in voting for the Glamorous MVP Award. His combination medium power, speed, and defense feeling him a cornerstone of integrity franchise, but he left righteousness team via free agency sustenance the season to join leadership Rangers. The year, $&#;million piece of meat he signed was the in baseball history at decency time. He played at natty high level in his span years with Texas, highlighted unresponsive to his first AL MVP Honour win in , but justness team failed to make probity playoffs during his tenure. Hitherto the season, Rodriguez was traded to the Yankees, for whom he converted to a tertiary baseman to accommodate their infielder Derek Jeter. He was name AL MVP in and Subside opted out of his commit after the season, then autographed a new year, $&#;million composition with the Yankees, breaking her majesty own record for the sport's most lucrative contract.^[9] He became the youngest player to strike home runs, reaching the critical in He helped the Yankees win the World Series fold up the Philadelphia Phillies, which was Rodriguez's only championship title. Assisting the end of his activity, he was hampered by alert and knee injuries, which caused him to become exclusively neat as a pin designated hitter.^[10] He played crown final game in professional sport on August 12,

Despite dissenting in a interview that significant had ever used performance-enhancing blockhead, Rodriguez admitted in to accepting used steroids, saying he handmedown them from to when accomplishment for the Rangers due longing "an enormous amount of pressure" to perform.^[6][7] While recovering strip a hip injury in , Rodriguez made headlines by dissension with team management over diadem rehabilitation and for having purportedly obtained performance-enhancing drugs as pass on of the Biogenesis baseball shame. In August , MLB declared a game suspension for Rodriguez for his involvement in illustriousness scandal.^[11] After an arbitration consultation, the suspension was reduced rant games, which kept him defer the field for the plentiful season.^[12]

After retiring as a actor, Rodriguez became a media make-up, serving as a broadcaster fancy Fox Sports 1,^[13] a see member of Shark Tank^[14] swallow a member of the ABC News network.^[15] In January , ESPN announced that Rodriguez would be joining the broadcast body of Sunday Night Baseball.^[16] Detect January , CNBC announced Rodriguez would be the host fence the show Back In Excellence Game, where he would aid former athletes make a return in their personal lives; say publicly first episode debuted on grandeur network in March ^[17]

Early life

Rodriguez was born in in honesty Washington Heights section of Borough to Dominican immigrants Víctor Manuel Rodríguez Marcano and Lourdes Nelly Navarro Melo from San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic.^[18][19] He was raised alongside government two half-siblings, Joe and Suzy, from his mother's first marriage.^[20] In , when he was four years old, the race moved to the Dominican Federation, then to Miami, Florida, in the way that he was in the favour grade.^[21] His father played sport for a team in goodness Dominican Republic and introduced him to the sport as spruce child. Growing up, Rodriguez's favourite baseball players were Keith Hernandez, Dale Murphy, and Cal Ripken Jr., and his favorite gang was the New York Mets.^[22]

At the end of his neophyte year at Christopher Columbus Revitalization School in Miami, Rodriguez transferred to Westminster Christian School birdcage Palmetto Bay, Florida, where fair enough was a star shortstop innocent person the baseball team and afflicted quarterback on the football team.^[22] In games he batted touch 90 stolen bases. Westminster won the high school national promotion in his junior year. Perform was first team prep All-American as a senior, hitting stay nine home runs, 36 runs batted in (RBIs), and 35 stolen bases in 35 attempts in 33 games. He was selected as the USA Sport Junior Player of the Gathering and as Gatorade's national ballgame student-athlete of the year. Rise , Rodriguez became the cap high school player to endeavour out for the United States national baseball team. He was regarded as the top vista in the country.^[23][24]

Rodriguez signed wonderful letter of intent to evolve baseball for University of Algonquin and was also recruited because of Miami to play quarterback solution its football team. Rodriguez decomposed down the University of City baseball scholarship offer and not in a million years played college baseball, opting on the other hand to sign with the Metropolis Mariners after being selected lid overall in the amateur indite at the age of ^[25]

Professional career

Draft and minor leagues

The Metropolis Mariners selected Rodriguez with excellence first overall selection of leadership Major League Baseball draft.^[25] Nobleness Mariners signed him to unadorned three-year contract worth $&#;million, additional a $1&#;million signing bonus.^[26]

Seattle Mariners

–

In , Rodriguez made his out of date baseball debut as a obscure league player with the Physicist Foxes of the Class AMidwest League.^[27] He was promoted choose the Jacksonville Suns of description Class AASouthern League. He impressed in 17 games for Metropolis, then was promoted to City for 32 games before affecting up to the major leagues.^[28][29] On July 8, , Rodriguez debuted in the major leagues as a starting shortstop, crabby the third year-old major cohort shortstop since ^[30][31] He was also the first year-old senior league player in 10 life, and the youngest position sportswoman in Seattle history.^[32] As defer to , he is the ceiling recent player to appear manner an MLB game at nobleness age of Rodriguez recorded cap first major league hit what because he singled off of Sergio Valdez on July 9 look down at Fenway Park.^[33] Rodriguez played stuff 17 games for the Mariners, compiling a batting average, fold up RBIs, and three stolen bases. In August, The Mariners optioned Rodriguez to the Calgary Cannons of the Class AAAPacific Glide League (PCL).^[34][35] In 32 hilarity for Calgary, he had 37 hits in at-bats for systematic batting average. He also compiled six home runs and 21 RBIs.^[36]

Rodriguez split most of glory season between the Mariners gift the Tacoma Rainiers of nobility PCL.^[37] He connected for climax first major league home subject off Kansas City's Tom Gordon on June Rodriguez permanently connubial the major league roster extract August and got his cap taste of postseason play, although just two at-bats. Again, be active was the youngest player need Major League Baseball.^[38] During say publicly season, Rodriguez played in 48 games, batting with five domicile runs, 19 RBI, and three stolen bases.^[30]

–

The following year, Rodriguez took over as the Mariners' regular shortstop and had fulfil breakout season. He led position American League (AL) with skilful batting average, the highest insinuate an AL right-handed batter because Joe DiMaggio hit in ray the third-highest ever for dialect trig shortstop. He also had 36 home runs with RBIs.^[39] Irate 21 years and one four weeks, he was the 3rd youngest AL batting leader ever carry on Al Kaline (20) in president Ty Cobb (20) in , and the third-youngest player uncover history with 35+ homers. Perform was also the first main league shortstop to win calligraphic batting title since , prosperous the first in the Official since At age 20 period, 11 months, he was rendering youngest shortstop in All-Star Undertaking history. He also led say publicly AL in runs (), integral bases (), and doubles (54) and ranked among the confederacy leaders in base hits (second, ), extra-base hits (second, 91), multi-hit games (third, 65), slugging (fourth, ), RBI (eighth, ), and on-base percentage (eighth, ). Rodriguez posted the highest totals ever for a shortstop nucleus runs, hits, doubles, extra-base hits, and slugging, and tied near total bases, and established City club records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, in a season that statistical analysts consider the best shrewd by a shortstop.^[40]

The Sporting News and Associated Press selected Rodriguez as their Major League Sportswoman of the Year. He complete second to Juan González disturb balloting for the AL Heavy-handed Valuable Player (MVP) Award. Sharptasting finished three points behind González (–), matching the second nighest AL MVP voting in history.^[41]

In , Rodriguez batted with 23 home runs and 84 RBIs. He hit for the series on June 5, becoming nobleness second Mariner, and at 21 years, 10 months, the fifth-youngest player in history, to carry out the feat.^[42] He was righteousness fan's choice to start distinction All-Star Game at shortstop let in the AL team, becoming rectitude first player other than Ripken to start at shortstop establish 13 years. It was leadership first All-Star start of enthrone career and his second All-Star Game in two years.^[43]

–

Rodriguez rebounded in , when he anger the AL record for homers by a shortstop and became just the third member practice the 40–40 club, (with 42 home runs and 46 taken bases) and one of impartial 3 shortstops in history stop hit 40 home runs hold back a season. His Power-speed enumerate was, through at least , the highest single season Power/Speed Number ever.^[44] He was choice as Players Choice AL Performer of the Year,^[45] won consummate second Silver Slugger Award,^[46] slab finished ninth in the Player voting.^[47]

In , Rodriguez had dexterous average, 42 home runs, queue RBIs,^[30] despite missing over 30 games with an injury gleam playing the second half have a high opinion of the season at Safeco Field,^[48] a considerably less hitter-friendly park than the Kingdome.^[49] At justness time, he was the youngest-ever player to record home runs and stolen bases, at 23 years and days of age.^[50] In April , Mike Trout reached the same milestone incensed 23 years and days old.^[50]

Rodriguez entered as the cornerstone athlete of the Mariners franchise,^[51] which had recently traded superstars Heighten Johnson and Ken Griffey Jr..^[52] Rodriguez put up great galore, hitting 41 home runs assort RBIs and a batting average.^[30] He set a career soaring for walks () and became the only shortstop to plot runs, RBI, and walks fall the same season.^[53] He fame well in the playoffs makeover well ( batting average current slugging percentage),^[30] but Seattle gone to the New York Yankees in the American League Assistance Series.^[54] He was selected thanks to the Major League Player break into the Year by Baseball America and finished third in probity AL MVP voting.^[55]

Texas Rangers

Rodriguez became a free agent after illustriousness season. He eventually signed farm the Texas Rangers, who difficult to understand fallen to last place comport yourself their division in The commitment was at the time nobility most lucrative contract in balls history: a year deal quality $&#;million (equivalent to $&#;million coop ). The deal was value $63&#;million more than the second-richest baseball deal.^[56] The contract was highly criticized, because it destined up valuable payroll space walk could have been spent blow up improve other areas, such monkey pitching.^[57][58]Dave McNally, one of authority players who had successfully challenged the reserve clause in righteousness s to create free intercession in baseball, said, "My pass with flying colours thought when I saw [reports that Rodriguez had signed] was: Did Texas offer him $ million and he wanted several more? How did they kiss and make up to $ million?"^[59]

In an examine eight years later, Rodriguez aforesaid he regretted signing with dignity Texas Rangers and wished subside had signed with the In mint condition York Mets instead, and become absent-minded he had heeded the notification of his agent, Scott Boras. (See Opt out controversy.)^[60]

–

Rodriguez's power-hitting numbers improved with his cut out to the Texas Rangers. Interpose his first season there, Rodriguez produced one of the hold back offensive seasons ever for graceful shortstop, leading the American Corresponding item with 52 home runs, runs scored, and total bases.^[30] Smartness became the first player on account of with 50 homers and hits in a season, the position shortstop to ever lead rendering league in homers, and illustriousness second AL player in honesty last 34 seasons (beginning ) to lead the league clod runs, homers, and total bases; his total base figure psychoanalysis the most ever for dexterous major league shortstop. His 52 homers made him the 6th youngest to ever reach 50 homers and were the pre-eminent total ever by a short, surpassing Ernie Banks' record break into 47 in , and as well the most ever for solve infielder other than a be foremost baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Microphone Schmidt's mark of 48 remove ^[61] It was his 5th homer campaign, tying Banks convoy most ever by a position. He also tied for influence league lead in extra-base hits (87) and ranked third make a fuss RBIs () and slugging (). He was also among rank AL leaders in hits (fourth, ), average (seventh, ), instruct on-base percentage (eighth, ). Of course established Rangers club records vindicate homers, runs, total bases, opinion hit by pitches, had primacy second-most extra-base hits, and representation fourth-highest RBI total. He forced the club in runs, hits, doubles (34), homers, RBI, slugging, and on-base percentage and was second in walks (75), taken bases (18), and game-winning Run (14) while posting career highs for homers, RBI, and whole bases. Rodriguez started games fall back shortstop and one as rectitude DH, the only major confederacy player to start all jump at his team's games in

Rodriguez followed the previous year copy a major league-best 57 house runs, RBIs and total bases in ,^[30] becoming the supreme player to lead the conference in all three categories because His nine home runs in bad taste April matched a team not to be mentioned that was shared (through ) with Iván Rodríguez (), Carl Everett (), and Ian Kinsler (). He had the sixth-most home runs in AL features, the most since Roger Maris' league record 61 in give orders to the most ever for nifty shortstop for the second linear year. He won the Baby Ruth Home Run Award give reasons for leading MLB in homers think it over season.^[62] He also won her highness first Gold Glove Award, awarded for outstanding defense.

His soupзon runs in –02 are authority most ever by an Dweller League right-handed batter in successive seasons. However, the Rangers through last in the AL Amour division in both years. Subside finished second in the Participant balloting to fellow shortstop Miguel Tejada, whose win Oakland Contest won the same division.^[63]

The patch was Rodriguez's last year adequate the Rangers. He led position American League in home runs, runs scored, and slugging cut, and won his second ordered Gold Glove Award. He too led the league in lowest at-bats per home run () and became the youngest contestant to hit homers. He was tied with Jim Thome let slip the MLB lead in homers, and he won his quickly Babe Ruth Home Run Award.^[64][65]

Following five top finishes in primacy AL MVP voting between person in charge , Rodriguez won his gain victory MVP trophy. Rodriguez, a down the garden path runner up in the voting by the Baseball Writers' Confederacy of America, joined outfielder Andre Dawson from the Chicago Cubs as the only players oppress play on last-place teams prosperous win the award.^[66]

Following the occasion, Texas set out to zenith ways with Rodriguez and enthrone expensive contract. The Rangers at the start agreed to a trade farm the Boston Red Sox, shipment Rodriguez to Boston for Manny Ramirez, year old pitching future Jon Lester, and cash considerations. However, the Major League Ballgame Players Association vetoed the partnership because it called for natty voluntary reduction in salary impervious to Rodriguez.^[67] Despite the failed parcel out with the Red Sox, integrity Rangers named him team coxswain during that off-season.^[68]

New York Yankees

Yankees third baseman Aaron Boone acceptable a knee injury while exhibit a game of pickup sport that sidelined him for primacy entire season, creating a crash at third base.^[69]

On February 15, , the Rangers traded Rodriguez to the New York Yankees for second baseman Alfonso Soriano and a player to lay at somebody's door named later (Joaquín Árias was sent to the Rangers ponder March 24). The Rangers too agreed to pay $67&#;million invoke the $&#;million left on Rodriguez's contract. Rodriguez agreed to rod positions from shortstop to 3rd base, paving the way tend to the trade, because the common Derek Jeter was already rooted at shortstop. This was solitary the second time in MLB history that a reigning Player was traded, with the chief coming in when Eddie Author was traded to the Port White Sox from the City Athletics for cash considerations.^[70] Rodriguez also had to switch unvaried numbers; he had worn 3 his entire career, but position number was retired by loftiness Yankees in honor of Child Ruth. Instead, Rodriguez chose commemorative inscription change his number to 13, in honor of Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. A Algonquian native himself, Rodriguez had full-blown up watching Marino and besides wore number 13 when sharptasting played quarterback in high school.^[71]

During his first season with loftiness Yankees, Rodriguez hit with 36 home runs, RBIs, runs scored and 28 stolen bases.^[30] Stylishness became one of only pair players in Major League characteristics to compile at least 35 home runs, runs and RBIs in seven consecutive seasons, oining Hall of Famers Babe Trial and Jimmie Foxx. The runs marked the ninth straight bout in which he scored representative least runs, the longest specified streak in the Major Leagues since Hank Aaron did litigation in 13 straight seasons shun to , and the top in the American League owing to Mickey Mantle did it very in nine straight seasons come across to During the season, misstep also became the youngest contestant ever to reach home runs and the third youngest forbear reach 1, RBIs. He was elected to the American Corresponding item All-Star Team, the eighth All-Star selection of his career give orders to the first as a bag baseman. On July 24, , Rodriguez was hit by well-organized pitch from Bronson Arroyo, which led to a scuffle be infatuated with Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, and a bench-clearing donnybrook between both teams. On safeguard, he had the lowest amass factor among non-platoon AL base basemen () in his supreme year at the position.^[72] Without fear finished 14th in balloting intolerant the AL MVP Award.^[73]

In rendering ALDS, Rodriguez was a de rigueur hitter against the Minnesota Matched set, batting and slugging while emancipation two key extra-inning hits. Multitude the series win, Rodriguez's chief season with the Yankees culminated in a dramatic playoff heap against the team he locked away almost ended up playing for: the Yankees' bitter rival, blue blood the gentry Boston Red Sox. In dump series (ALCS) he equaled decency single-game post-season record with cardinal runs scored in Game 3 at Boston.

One of grandeur most controversial plays of Rodriguez's career occurred late in Recreation 6 of the American Compact Championship Series. With one concluded and Derek Jeter on have control over base in the bottom invoke the eighth inning, Rodriguez go around a slow roller between depiction pitcher's mound and the first-base line. Red Sox pitcherBronson Channel fielded the ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply put in order tag. As Arroyo reached toward him, Rodriguez swatted at rule glove, knocking the ball unattached. As the ball rolled undertaken, Jeter scored all the technique from first as Rodriguez took second on the play, which was initially ruled an gaffe on Arroyo. However, the umpires quickly huddled, then ruled desert Rodriguez was out for intruding. Jeter was sent back advertisement first base, and his people was nullified.^[74] The Yankees would then lose the ALCS build up the eventual World Series fighter Red Sox after leading probity series three games to nil.

–

In , Rodriguez hit , leading the American League momentous runs and 48 home runs while driving in runs.^[30] Unwind became the first Yankee show win the American League soupзon run title since Reggie Politician (41) in He also became one of only two send in Major League history willing compile at least 35 abode runs, runs and RBIs rise eight consecutive seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the feat in cardinal straight seasons from to ). Rodriguez established the franchise not to be disclosed for most home runs inconvenience a single season by spruce right-handed batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark of 46 in ). His 47 home runs escape the third base position watchdog a single-season American League measuring tape. Rodriguez hit 26 home runs at Yankee Stadium in , establishing the single-season club copy for right-handed batters (previously set aside by DiMaggio in and Metropolis Sheffield in ). On June 8, at 29 years, years old, he became the youngest player in MLB history secure reach the home run impression. also marked the tenth defensibly season that Rodriguez scored take a shot at least runs. On defense, still, he had the lowest allotment factor in the league reduced third for the second strung out season ().^[75]

On April 26, Rodriguez hit three home runs rancid Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colón pointer drove in 10 runs. Birth 10 RBIs were the wellnigh by a Yankee since Pompous Lazzeri established the franchise arena American League record with 11 on May 24, Rodriguez became the 11th major leaguer end accomplish the feat.^[76]

Rodriguez won authority second AL MVP Award foresee three seasons, becoming the one-fifth player to win this honour with two different teams, joined Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Outspoken Robinson and Barry Bonds. Be active also became the first Disgust player from outside the Denizen League West to win probity award since Mo Vaughn have the Boston Red Sox won in Rodriguez was also known as the shortstop on the Superior League Baseball Latino Legends Posse in

Prior to the interval, Rodriguez opted to play bare Team USA in the Fake Baseball Classic.^[77]

Rodriguez was again let down All-Star in His 2,th delivery, on July 21, − provoke days prior to his Xxxi birthday − was also emperor th home run. Rodriguez became the youngest player in ballgame history to reach home runs (surpassing Ken Griffey Jr., jam days), and the eighth sportswoman to reach 2, hits formerly turning Ty Cobb reached distinction mark while still 29, decide Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Length Aaron, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, and Robin Yount all consummated their 2,th hit at scene All seven are members carry-on baseball's Hall of Fame.

For the season, Rodriguez finished three-month period in the league in Tally (), fifth in runs scored (), eighth in home runs (35) and walks (90), very last ninth in OBP (). Operate also led all AL tertiary basemen in errors, with 24, and had the lowest author percentage () and—for the bag straight season—range factor () between them.^[30] Rodriguez also became probity second player in Major Contemporary history to record at small 35 home runs, runs, ground RBIs in nine consecutive seasons, joining Foxx. It was Rodriguez's 11th consecutive season with work up than runs scored, the highest such streak in American Corresponding person history since Lou Gehrig plain-spoken so in 13 straight seasons (–38). Despite this success, store was perceived as one bring in his lesser-accomplished seasons and was harshly criticized throughout the edible. He has commented that was his most difficult season whereas a professional.^[78]

When Rodriguez reported make camp in , he abstruse reduced his body fat evacuate 16% the year before warn about 9%. He made light lady this fact during a Late Show with David Letterman parody that was filmed during Waste pipe training, which featured him shirtless being rubbed down with helios lotion. He revealed to depiction press that he and Jeter were no longer close friends.^[79] Rodriguez also reduced his big leg kick at the collect, increasing his bat speed, establishment him less-apt to strike make plans for and a more dangerous hitter.^[80]

In the Yankees' fourth game be beneficial to the season, Rodriguez hit connect home runs against the City Orioles at Yankee Stadium, containing his 14th-career grand slam like end the game. The walk-off grand slam was the position of his career, tying blue blood the gentry major league mark for game-ending grand slams shared by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.^[81][82] Rodriguez also began the season harsh becoming the ninth major leaguer—and first Yankee—to hit six trace runs in the first vii games of the season. Rodriguez also became the first Northern to hit seven home runs in the first ten hilarity of the season.^[83]

On April 23, Rodriguez became the first athlete in major league history inspire hit 14 home runs huddle together a span of 18 jubilation, and also tied the MLB record for most home runs in April. His total exhaust 34 RBIs in April was one short of Juan González' AL and MLB record.^[84] Gauzy a game against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 30, Rodriguez sparked controversy when operate shouted during a routine chuck and an infielder let trig pop fly drop, costing picture Blue Jays three runs. Rank Yankees went on to finish first in the game, 10–5.^[85] On July 12, Rodriguez hit his surge career home run in straight Yankees uniform. This made him the first, and so distance off only, player in major foil history to ever hit dwelling-place runs for three different teams.^[86] He became the third trouper to hit at least fondle runs for three teams, next Reggie Jackson and Darrell Evans.^[87]

Rodriguez hit his th career component run against pitcher Kyle Davies of the Kansas City Percentage on August 4. Rodriguez became the youngest player ever done reach home runs at 32 years, 8 days.^[88] He surpassed the nearly year record set aside by Jimmie Foxx, who delivery his th home run make fun of 32 years, days during blue blood the gentry final week of the senior league baseball season.^[88] On Sept 25, Rodriguez became the 5th Major League player to take pictures of a home run, RBI interval when he hit a immense slam.^[89] As of , Rodriguez is the most recent trouper to have recorded at least possible RBIs in one season.^[90]

In , Rodriguez became the first participant in major league history pre-empt have at least 35 dwelling runs, runs, and RBIs rerouteing 10 consecutive seasons, surpassing Jimmie Foxx (nine consecutive seasons). Significant led the AL in sunny runs (54), RBIs (), slugging percentage (), OPS (), in one piece bases (), and times veneer base (), and was following in hit by pitch (21), extra-base hits (85), and have doubts about bats per home run (), fourth in on-base percentage () and sacrifice flies (9), ordinal in walks (95) and charger appearances (), eighth in relaxed walks (11), and ninth pop in games ().^[30] He led MLB in home runs and won his third Babe Ruth Fair Run Award.^[91]

After the season, Rodriguez was named the AL Player for the third time personal his career, receiving 26 first-place votes out of a credible ^[92] He also won authority Silver Slugger Award for consummate position,^[93] the Players Choice Give for Outstanding AL Player, existing the Players Choice Award quandary Player of the Year.^[94]

Opt-out controversy

The season marked the last crop of Rodriguez's year, $&#;million transmit before he opted out at an earlier time became a free agent adjust. Rodriguez had repeatedly stated nigh the season that he would like to remain a American for the rest of emperor career.^[95] On October 28, , Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, proclaimed that he would not refresh his contract with the Yankees citing that he "was timid of the future composition" doomed the team. Because of rendering opt-out, the Yankees also vanished $ million in remaining payments from the Rangers as share of their agreement from greatness trade.^[96] Rodriguez received a deflect of criticism from fans trip writers alike not only type opting out, but also nurture not meeting with Yankee state before he did. He was further criticized for the throb of his announcement, during honesty eighth inning of Game 4 of the World Series, tempt the Boston Red Sox were wrapping up their victory check the Colorado Rockies; even MLB's chief operating officer, Bob DuPuy, called it an attempt harsh Boras to "try to situate his selfish interests and avoid of one individual player upstairs the overall good of say publicly game."^[97]

Teammate Mariano Rivera convinced Rodriguez to contact the New Dynasty Yankees ownership.^[98] He contacted them directly, bypassing Boras (Boras further apologized for the timing carry out the announcement). Subsequently, Rodriguez prove to be c finish a statement on his site, saying that he wished say yes stay with the Yankees.^[99] Acclamation November 15, , the Additional York Yankees and Rodriguez all-encompassing on the "basic framework" supplementary a year, $&#;million contract go off at a tangent would have him playing during he was ^[] The roast, finalized December 13, included diverse multimillion-dollar incentives for breaking vocation home run milestones.^[]

Rodriguez hit authority th home run in on the rocks September 3, , game despoil the Tampa Bay Rays. Integrity opposing manager objected that distinction ball was foul, and oblige the first time in MLB history, instant replay (a dispute officially introduced a few years earlier) was used to survey the play and uphold influence umpires' ruling.^[] He was work on of only four batters sight the AL to have handy least 18 home runs opinion 18 stolen bases in both and , along with Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Grady Sizemore. Rodriguez hit a part run every at-bats in , the second-best ratio on rectitude team behind Jason Giambi.^[] Rodriguez played games during the seasoned with a average, 35 spiteful runs, RBI, and an Negative best slugging percentage.^[30]

Early Report domination positive test for steroids

On Feb 7, , Sports Illustrated tale that Rodriguez tested positive edify testosterone and the anabolic steroidPrimobolan in ^[] Rodriguez's name appears on a government-sealed list notice major-league players (out of tested^[]) who came up positive paper performance-enhancing drugs. The report was compiled as part of Larger League Baseball's survey to note whether mandatory random drug central program might be necessary. At one\'s disposal the time, there was thumb penalty or punishment for fine positive steroid test. Rodriguez outspoken not immediately confirm the allegations, deferring at first to nobility players' union.^[][] Two days care for the allegations, Rodriguez admitted condemnation steroid use from until , claiming that he ceased permission such substances after spring ritual that year.^[6][7]

regular season

Prior quick the season, Rodriguez was schedule to represent the Dominican Body politic in the World Baseball Postulation, but he was forced border on withdraw when an MRI leak out a cyst in his true hip. When he went pocket have the cyst drained, hold out was discovered that he was also suffering from a lacerated labrum in the same protection. Rodriguez opted to undergo slight arthroscopic procedure with a convalescence period of six to niner weeks, instead of the familiar three to four months.^[] Though the procedure should have legitimate him to make it owing to the season without any riders, he required a second, go into detail extensive surgery in the off-season.^[]

After missing spring training and class first month of the edible, Rodriguez returned to the Yankees in a May 8 pastime against the Baltimore Orioles folk tale hit a three-run home quicken on the first pitch donation his first at-bat.^[] The Yankees had stumbled to a 13–15 record in Rodriguez' absence, coupled with his return fortified the roll and provided much-needed protection make known three-hole hitter Mark Teixeira, who was a notoriously slow tyro. Rodriguez also supplied some late-game heroics. On May 16, realm two-run walk-off home run direction the bottom of the ordinal inning gave the Yankees swell 6–4 win over the Minnesota Twins.^[] One week later, fair enough hit a game-tying solo fine run in the bottom show signs of the ninth off Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge in regular game the Yankees would make available on to win, 5–4.^[]

By obvious June, the Yankees had surged to first place in position AL East. The club's destiny changed later in the four weeks, when Rodriguez fell into straighten up slump that saw his batten average plummet as the Yankees fell to second place. Procure June 23, Rodriguez became honesty eighth active player to diameter 8, career at-bats in nobility seventh inning of the Yankees and Braves game.^[] On June 25, Rodriguez belted homer a range of his career, off Atlanta Braves starter Derek Lowe, and bind Reggie Jackson for 11th come into view the all-time home run list.^[] On June 26, Rodriguez surpassed Jackson for 11th on ethics all-time home run list, wreck the New York Mets hold up the Subway Series,^[] and intrude upon the Angels on July 11, Rodriguez passed Rafael Palmeiro cause 10th place;^[] it was top 65th home run against City, the most by any dynamic player against an opponent.

On October 4, , during interpretation final game of the period, Rodriguez hit two home runs in the sixth inning go off drove in seven runs, milieu an American League record receive most RBI by a beat in a single inning, be first giving him his 12th continuous season, 13 overall, of move 30 home runs and RBIs, breaking a tie with Manny Ramirez, Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx for the most of great magnitude MLB history.^[]

postseason

Dating back function Game 4 of the Day-glow Championship Series, Rodriguez had batted with 38 runners on bracket over a span of 61 postseason at-bats. He stranded all one of them, going 0-for with runners on base.^[] Notwithstanding, in the first game help the ALDS against Minnesota, perform hit two RBI singles − both coming with two tempt. In Game 2, he eminence an RBI single in glory sixth, and hit a game-tying homer off closer Joe Nathan in the bottom of probity ninth inning. In Game 3, he again hit a game-tying home run. In the ALCS, Rodriguez hit his third game-tying home run of the postseason in Game 2 in depiction bottom of the 11th counter Angels closer Brian Fuentes.^[] Tail the series, he batted 9–21 () with three home runs and six runs batted careful.

The Yankees faced the Phillies in the World Series. Alternative route Game 3, Rodriguez hit what appeared to be a bent over off a camera perched aerial the outfield wall, but back end protest by Yankee manager Joe Girardi, the play was reviewed and ruled a home call together. In Game 4, Rodriguez host in the go-ahead run reach two outs in the 9th inning off closer Brad Lidge. The Yankees would go collection to win the game 7–4 to take a 3-games-to-1 shrink in the series. Despite adroit 2–4 performance with three Tally in Game 5, the Yankees lost 8–6 to force distinction Series to return to decency Bronx for Game 6. Rodriguez was 1–2 with 2 walks and two runs scored observe Game 6, as the Yankees went on to defeat decency Phillies 7–3 for their Ordinal World Series Championship, the foremost of Rodriguez's career. Having backward his postseason misfortunes, he was the Babe Ruth Award titleholder as the postseason MVP,^[] attach which he batted with tremor home runs and 18 RBI.^[]

–

On August 4, , on birth three-year anniversary of his cross home run, Rodriguez became nobleness seventh player in major confederation history to hit home runs, hitting number off Shaun Marcum of the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the youngest player contempt do so at 35 time and 8 days old.^[] Upholding August 14, Rodriguez hit several home runs in a amusement against the Kansas City Peerage. In the top of picture sixth, he hit his regulate, a solo dinger to left-wing center. In the top treat the seventh, he hit empress second, a two-run shot wring dead center. In the acme of the ninth, he reduce the price of his third, a towering two-run blast into the waterfall send back Kauffman Stadium.^[] On September 6, he recorded his th RBI; it was the 14th epoch he had reached the highflying, the most times of prole player in baseball history. Anger September 29, he hit king 30th home run of rank season, recording his major combination record 13th straight year flawless at least 30 home runs and RBIs, breaking a compel with Jimmie Foxx, who esoteric 12 seasons.

In , Rodriguez batted with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs prior jump in before the All-Star break. Despite boon production, Rodriguez suffered the best ever single-season home run drought ticking off his career by not interfering one in 85 at-bats. Even supposing elected to start the enterprise, Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic therapy action towards on his knee to preservation a torn meniscus that wedged his power, and was tell untruths on the disabled list.^[] Forethought top of recovery, Rodriguez was facing serious allegations that loosen up participated in illegal, underground cards games. One of those amusement reportedly turned violent and cocain was openly used. However, Rodriguez denied through a representative meander he ever participated in reject poker games. An MLB Think about has said that if Rodriguez was indeed proven guilty, oversight may face a suspension; MLB had warned Rodriguez in need to participate in such games.^[]

Rodriguez returned to the Yankees dependable August 21, playing third stand against the Minnesota Twins, bank of cloud 0-for He sustained another wound with a jammed thumb reach trying to make a exert in that game. He complementary to the Yankees on Revered 25, going 2-for-4 with digit singles in a win tend the Yankees over the Metropolis Athletics. On August 26, Rodriguez hit his first home relations since coming off the ruined list, a solo shot thrive Baltimore Orioles pitcher Tommy Tracker. He concluded the season meet 16&#;home runs and 62&#;RBIs shoulder 99&#;games, ending his major league-record streak of 13&#;straight seasons curst 30&#;homers and &#;RBIs.^[]

Rodriguez hit sovereign 23rd career grand slam trigger Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Jonny Venters on June 12, , which tied Lou Gehrig pick the most in MLB history.^[] In a road loss at variance with the Seattle Mariners on July 24, , Rodriguez took uncluttered hit to the hand about an eighth-inning at bat adverse Seattle starting pitcher Félix Hernández. The injury was later affirmed as a non-displaced fracture.^[] Rodriguez was placed on the powerless list. Earlier in the by a long way game, Hernandez struck out Rodriguez in the sixth inning, creation Rodriguez the fifth player instantaneously record 2, career strikeouts tension MLB history.^[]

During the postseason, Rodriguez was removed for a pang hitter multiple times and frank not start many times. Stylishness batted 3-for overall, and went 0-for with 12 strikeouts harm right-handed pitchers.^[] He batted coop the ALCS.^[] The Yankees were eliminated by the Tigers populate the ALCS.

On January 16, , Rodriguez underwent arthroscopic surgical procedure in his hip to upkeep a torn labrum. It was the second time in quartet years that he had rendering surgery, although the operation was more serious than before. Rodriguez began the season on distinction day disabled list.^[]

While rehabilitating coronate hip, Rodriguez was embroiled draw a series of negative headlines: he became a central tariff of the Biogenesis baseball offence and MLB's investigation into cap possible connection to performance-enhancing drugs.^[] Around the same time, Rodriguez announced on Twitter that sovereign doctor had medically cleared him to play in games. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, disproportionate to his dismay, soon unclosed that Rodriguez's doctor did crowd have such authority to vague him.^[]

Rodriguez played his first repair assignment game on July 2, , with the Yankees Class-A Low affiliate, the Charleston RiverDogs.^[] He continued his rehabilitation celebrated played for the Yankees Triple-A team, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders assembly July ^[] Two days former to his scheduled promotion choose the major league roster, Rodriguez sustained a new injury, gorilla an MRI later revealed skilful Grade 1 quad strain, restrictive his return and forcing him to continue rehabilitating in rank minor leagues. Rodriguez independently soughtafter a second opinion on her highness quad strain on July 24 with a doctor who avowed that there did not materialize to be an injury; character Yankees front office expressed other dismay, claiming that he not working league rules for seeking undiluted second opinion without the team's permission.^[] He completed his repair program with the Yankees' Double-A affiliate Trenton Thunder.^[]

Rodriguez made wreath return with the Yankees have emotional impact August 5, which was honourableness same day that MLB declared he would be suspended—pending undermine appeal—through the season for sovereignty role in the Biogenesis scandal.^[] On August 11, Rodriguez knock his first home run unmoving the season off Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander.^[] With nobleness home run, Rodriguez passed Stan Musial for fifth place enjoy career RBIs.^[] Rodriguez continued fit in feud with the Yankees mask office following his return, on account of his lawyers accused the body, and specifically Christopher S. Ahmad, of mishandling his hip impairment in several ways; Rodriguez's lawful team contended that the band withheld the injury from him and continued to play him in , despite his action. Yankees team president Randy Levine expressed negative comments towards Rodriguez, saying that he would "feel happy if Rodriguez never touched again".^[] In response to grandeur accusations, Cashman said, "I'm quite a distance comfortable talking to Alex reposition this because we feel surprise are in a litigious ecosystem. Hello and goodbye, that's anxiety it." He added, "It's grizzle demand just Yankees' management. He's respect it at the level help our trainers, our medical stick. The organization. The team."^[]

During a-one game against the Red Sox on August 18, , Rodriguez was involved in key moments against Ryan Dempster. The gain victory time he faced Dempster, Rodriguez was hit by a pressure group on a 3–0 count, demanding to home plate umpire Brian O'Nora warning both benches concentrate on ejecting Girardi, while Dempster was allowed to stay in high-mindedness game. Later in the engrave of the sixth inning, Rodriguez encountered Dempster again, hitting marvellous foot home run to nowadays center.^[] The Yankees won 9–6, and Dempster, who hit Rodriguez before, was suspended five desirouss by the league with inventiveness undisclosed fine (although he blunt not miss a start).^[]

On Sep 20, at Yankee Stadium, Rodriguez hit his 24th career expensive slam, an opposite field alter career home run, off Martyr Kontos of the San Francisco Giants, breaking the all-time de luxe slam record, formerly held prep between Lou Gehrig.^[] For the seasoned, Rodriguez played in only 44 games batting with seven fondle runs and 19 RBI.^[30]

Ejection due to Biogenesis scandal

Rodriguez's elimination that was announced the prior season but delayed pending brainchild appeal, was upheld, resulting splotch him being suspended for class entirety of the regular stint and postseason.^[] At the headquarters of the season, general supervisor Brian Cashman announced that Rodriguez would no longer serve whilst an everyday third baseman rear 1 the team's signing of Hunt Headley, and would instead safeguard as a designated hitter.^[10]

In honesty off-season, during the week arrive at January 19, , it was reported that Rodriguez met form new Commissioner of BaseballRob Manfred. The pair reportedly had graceful "positive discussionin which Rodriguez apologized, while promising to behave confine the future".^[] On February 17, , Rodriguez issued a hand-written letter of apology to "Major League Baseball, the Yankees, grandeur Steinbrenner family, the Players Business and you, the fans".^[]

Rodriguez report to New York Yankees' emerge training camp three days early.^[][][] Girardi planned to play Rodriguez at first base during bloom training to assess whether do something could be played there, natty first for his career.^[][]

Rodriguez worked his first game after cap suspension on opening day desecrate the Blue Jays at American Stadium. He served as ethics designated hitter, going 1 engage in 2 with a walk renovation the Yankees lost to righteousness Blue Jays 1–6.^[] On Apr 17, his first multi-HR sport – and third and post home runs – of high-mindedness season included a blast summon Nate Karns of Tampa Bawl that traveled feet (&#;m), catering four total RBIs in pure 5–4 win.^[] In a pinch-hit appearance against the Red Sox on May 1, Rodriguez wallop his th career home go briskly off reliever Junichi Tazawa, attachment Willie Mays for fourth brace on the all-time home lope list.^[] On May 7, Rodriguez hit his st career rub run off Orioles pitcher Chris Tillman for sole possession attention fourth place on the all-time home run list.^[] On The fifth month or expressing possibility 27, Rodriguez set an Frightful record for the most existence RBI, passing Lou Gehrig, very moving him into third relation the all-time list.^[]

With his change for the better career home run against Charity performance Norris of the Orioles rip off June 13, Rodriguez drove gravel his 2,th and 2,st calling runs. However, opinions varied disturbance whether he was the in the second place (Elias Sports Bureau, trailing Aaron), third (MLB, trailing Aaron nearby Ruth),^[] or fourth player (, trailing Aaron, Ruth, and Bring to an end Anson) in MLB history attain attain 2, RBIs.^[] Rodriguez' support home run was also cap 3,th career hit, making him the 29th player to go the milestone. He hit nonoperational against the Tigers' Justin Verlander in a 7–2 win, oining Wade Boggs and Jeter – both former Yankees – orang-utan the only players to go around a home run for surmount 3,th hit.^[] With his go along with hit on June 20, Rodriguez surpassed Roberto Clemente, the ordinal player in MLB history secure have recorded 3, hits.^[] Grandeur July 25, against the Combination in Minnesota, and two stage before his 40th birthday, Rodríguez became the fifth-oldest player relax hit three home runs plenty one game.^[]

In his first 95 games of the season, Rodriguez hit 24 homers and afflicted with an OPS of ^[] Care for being mired in a bat slump without a home scurry until August 18 against distinction Twins, he hit his Twenty-five home run which was along with his 25th career grand thwart, extending his major league tape measure. The home run also bevy in the go-ahead runs extend an 8–4 Yankees win.^[]

From Grand 1 until the end waste the season, Rodriguez appeared pound 56 games, batting , OPS, nine home runs, and simulated out 59 times in at-bats.^[] The first base experiment waived two total appearances in ^[] He finished with 33 make runs, 86 RBI, hits, playing field a batting average.^[30] He take the edge off the Yankees in home runs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, on-base plus slugging, and bases-on-balls. Rodriguez reached 30+ home runs go for the 15th time in tiara career, tying Aaron for ethics most home-run seasons in history.^[]

On April 17, , Rodriguez became the 19th player to pull off 12, career plate appearances. Shelve May 4, the Yankees settled him on the day incapacitated list due to a prerrogative hamstring strain.^[] On May 24, the Yankees sent him educate a rehab assignment to rank Double-A Trenton Thunder,^[] and excited him on May ^[] Description next day, he hit diadem 30th career home run submit Tropicana Field, which traveled prominence estimated feet (&#;m), as justness Yankees defeated Tampa Bay, 4–1.^[] However, for much of influence season, Rodriguez notably struggled oratory bombast adequately produce, enduring prolonged slumps as his role dwindled steer clear of everyday designated hitter to lift hitter. In July, he difficult to understand two extra base hits, inclusive of his th career home run.^[]

At a press conference held rerouteing August 7, Rodriguez announced go he would play in rulership final game for the Yankees on the following Friday, Honoured 12, against the Rays pressurize Yankee Stadium. It was as well noted that the Yankees would sign him to a additional contract that would keep him in the organization through orang-utan a special instructor and consultant. In the offseason, Rodriguez would join the Yankees' front control centre as a special advisor.^[] Depiction club commemorated Rodriguez's final distraction as a Yankee, thanking him in front of a sold-out crowd for his efforts upset a tribute of highlights empathy the stadium videoboard, a register of a framed number 13 jersey, and a base autographed by teammates.^[][] At the course, he batted third and begun as the designated hitter, disturb 1-for-4 with an RBI fill-in. In the ninth inning, prohibited was brought onto the a long way away at third base for horn batter − his only maternal appearance for the Yankees enhance ^[] − and departed depiction field to a "raucous ovation" from the fans.^[] The succeeding day, the Yankees granted him his unconditional release.^[] His unfrequented roster spot was filled timorous future MVP Aaron Judge.^[]

Rumors swirled regarding Rodriguez's future in baseball; the Miami Marlins were compassionate in signing him to sport first base until his proponent Ron Berkowitz emailed the publicity on August 15 and vocal on behalf of Rodriguez, "I want to put all that talk to rest about Alex playing for any team that season. It's not happening. Love he said Friday night, noteworthy is happy and he task going to take some spell to relax and hang interview his family and friends."^[] Rodriguez ended the season playing 65 games with a batting repeated, nine home runs and 31 RBIs.^[30]

In January , Rodriguez's defender said that he would pule play for any other operation in the coming year, last would remain a "special advisor" to Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner.^[]

Media career

Television

Rodriguez became a guest nimble on Shark Tank in ^[] That same year, he sign a deal with ABC Material network to serve as fine contributor to ABC World Word Tonight, Good Morning America, existing Nightline.^[]

Rodriguez is an MLB building analyst for FOX Sports, mine alongside Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter.^[13] During tiara tenure as analyst, FOX Sports' MLB studio show won consecutive Sports Emmy Awards for Memorable Studio Show during the network's coverage of the and postseason. Rodriguez was nominated for brainstorm Emmy for Outstanding Sports Persona, Studio and Sports Event Psychoanalyst in ^[] Rodriguez joined ESPN in as a Sunday Nocturnal Baseball analyst, alongside Matt Vasgersian and Buster Olney.^[] In greatness season, Rodriguez moved to exceptional simulcast on ESPN2 that take steps co-hosts with Michael Kay.^[][]

Rodriguez became the host of the demonstrate Back in the Game reliable the first episode debuting overambitious CNBC in March The stack focuses on Rodriguez mentoring athletes and entertainers who have loose on hard times. A four-episode series debuted in November gift featured Evander Holyfield, Ryan Lochte, Brian Dunkleman, and Nicole Eggert.^[]

In July , it was declared that Rodriguez would be extremity of the judging panel detail the Forbes' Next list, unadorned franchise which focuses on entrepreneurs from marginalized communities.^[]

Rodriguez appeared quickwitted The Captain, a miniseries accident Jeter's life and career. Rodriguez and Jeter discussed the annulment in their friendship.^[][]

Advertisements

Rodriguez was featured in a Pepsi Cola cost-effective as a truck driver inconvenience a fleet of delivery trucks simulating players in a ballgame game. At the end provision the commercial when he drives his vehicle to make efficient catch, he is told fail to notice his approving partner in integrity truck that he has grand future in the beverage transport business.^[]

Rodriguez is featured in systematic commercial for Guitar Hero False Tour, where he plays grandeur guitar along with athletes Urbane Hawk on drums, Kobe Bryant on vocals, and Michael Phelps on guitar. The commercial review a spoof of the area from Risky Business where Have a rest Cruise is dancing to "Old Time Rock and Roll".^[]

In , Rodriguez was featured in calligraphic Planters Super Bowl commercial, swivel he is watching the attempt and about to snack combination some kale chips but Sector. Peanut drives in to site him from eating kale shaft instead snack on some Peanuts.^[] In , Rodriguez was featured in a Presidente beer 1 Bowl commercial.^[] He appeared compel the SuperbowlHard Rock ad which also featured Jennifer Lopez.^[]

In , Rodriguez teamed up with facepaint company, Hims to launch copperplate line of make-up for lower ranks, beginning with its first artefact - a concealer stick. King ex Jennifer Lopez is organized co-investor.^[] In , Rodriguez comed in a DirectTV commercial reach Ortiz and former Mariners teammates Griffey Jr. and Johnson.^[]

Criticism

Due adjoin the unsuccessful nature of rank Yankees postseasons from to , along with Rodriguez's sub batten average in the postseasons look up to and ,^[30] Rodriguez drew judgement in the New York ingredient, both from writers, such importance the New York Post's Prophet Sherman, and players, such importance then-teammate, Jason Giambi.^[][] Prior acquiescent , Rodriguez had received prestige nickname "The Cooler" among labored players because of the alleged tendency for teams to spin cold when he joins them and hot when he leaves.^[][][][] According to Yankee manager Joe Torre's book, The Yankee Years, Rodriguez earned the nickname "A-Fraud" from teammates and particularly carry too far clubhouse attendants who were thought to resent his demands.^[] "It was [said] in front a choice of him," Torre later said sun-up the nickname. "A lot round that stuff that went synchronize in the clubhouse was make more complicated tongue-in-cheek, fun type stuff," smartness explained.^[]

Much of the criticism as regards Rodriguez focuses on his claimed inability to produce hits affix clutch situations.^[][] In , Rodriguez hit only with runners spiky scoring position and two tether. In 95 plate appearances, smartness walked 20 times and was hit by three pitches, crucial he had only 19 hits. Of the 41 times Rodriguez struck out with two the score, 20 came with runners come to terms with scoring position.^[]

Because of the Yankees' successful history, he was compared unfavorably to other Yankees greats who have performed exceptionally spasm in the postseason, such thanks to Reggie Jackson.^[][][][][][] However, after wreath performance in the postseason, Rodriguez started receiving many positive comparisons to Reggie Jackson, even actuality selected as "Mr. October" from one side to the ot Jackson and USA Today.^[]

Rodriguez acknowledged many of the criticisms possess his postseason performance by effecting exceptionally well in the postseason, where he posted a stuffing average and hit six home-runs in 52 at-bats during distinction Yankees' 15 post-season games.^[]

Use beat somebody to it performance-enhancing drugs

In July , grass outfielder and steroid-userJose Canseco whispered that he was planning appeal publish another book about Higher ranking League Baseball, to follow fulfil bestseller Juiced: Wild Times, Uncontrolled 'Roids, Smash Hits & Nonetheless Baseball Got Big. Canseco thought his new book would own "other stuff" on Rodriguez, see called him a hypocrite.^[] Examination the time, Rodriguez denied accusations of steroid use.^[] In well-organized interview with Katie Couric, Rodriguez flatly denied ever having lazy performance-enhancing drugs.^[]

In February , Selena Roberts and David Epstein get a hold Sports Illustrated reported that Rodriguez had tested positive for several anabolic steroids, testosterone and Primobolan, during his season playing back the Texas Rangers, the unchanging season in which he captured his first American League Near Valuable Player award, broke employment home runs (hitting 47 range year),^[] and earned one admonishment his ten Silver Slugger Glory. The information had been withdraw of a government-sealed report narrative major league players (out suffer defeat players tested)^[] who tested guaranteed for performance enhancers during efficient drug survey. Approved by grandeur players themselves with the oath of anonymity,^[] the survey was conducted by Major League Sport to see whether a obligatory drug testing program might befall necessary. At the time, monkey the result of a closely bargained union agreement,^[] there was no penalty or punishment get something done a positive test.^[][] Because work up than 5% of the samples taken from players in came back positive, mandatory testing invoke major league baseball players began in , with penalties appearance violations.^[]

The test results were presumed to remain anonymous and distinction samples destroyed. However, a coded master list of players was seized during the BALCO exploration, turning up in a federated raid on Comprehensive Drug Testing's facility in Long Beach, Calif.. A month later, the corporal samples were seized by associated agents raiding Quest Diagnostics wrench Las Vegas, Nevada.^[] The enumeration of the positive-testing players was released to the Major Alliance Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) of great magnitude ^[6] The players' union consequent said that the positive samples were in the process declining being destroyed when they were subpoenaed by federal authorities uncover November , making continued corruption "improper."^[]

Although testosterone is available give up prescription for some uses, Primobolan has no approved prescription use.^[] Also known as methenolone outfit metenolone enanthate, it is loftiness same steroid that Barry Manacles is alleged to have tried positive for in and ^[] A fairly weak steroid assert its own, it is in the main used in conjunction with irritate steroids.^[] The drug is commonly preferred in injected rather outstrip oral form due to secure cost.^[] An official statement moisten Major League Baseball made anon after Rodriguez's test results became public expressed "grave concern" deprived of naming Rodriguez, noting that "because the survey testing that took place in was intended space be non-disciplinary and anonymous, incredulity can not make any reference on the accuracy of that report as it pertains wish the player named."^[]

In an investigate with ESPN after the voice drift came out, citing "an gigantic amount of pressure to perform", Rodriguez admitted to using illicit substances from to ^[6] "All my years in New Dynasty have been clean," he foster, saying he has not tattered banned substances since last charming them following a spring faithfulness injury in while playing have a handle on the Rangers.^[6][7] "Back then, [baseball] was a different culture," Rodriguez said. "It was very detached. I was young, I was stupid, I was naïve. Stall I wanted to prove be everyone that I was fee being one of the central point players of all time. Berserk did take a banned awareness. And for that, I harden very sorry and deeply regretful."^[6][7] Rodriguez said he could fret be sure of the name(s) of the substance(s) he challenging used.^[6][7]

Rodriguez said he was not at any time told that he was amidst the players who tested poised, only that a tip came in August from Gene Orza