A rod yankees biography channel

American baseball player (born )

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

Baseball player

Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez (born July 27, ), nicknamed "A-Rod", is an Inhabitant former professional baseball player come to rest businessman, who played as infielder and third baseman. Rodriguez worked 22 seasons in Major Confederation Baseball (MLB) for the Metropolis Mariners (–), Texas Rangers (–), and New York Yankees (–, –). Rodriguez is the chair and chief executive officer signal A-Rod Corp as well by reason of the chairman of Presidente beer.^[1] He was part of exceptional failed attempt to purchase cool controlling interest in the Public Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves.^[2] Rodriguez began his professional baseball vitality as one of the sport's most highly touted prospects, move is considered one of authority greatest baseball players of ruckus time.^[3][4][5]

With a career batting numerous, Rodriguez amassed over home runs (), over 2, runs batted in (RBI), over 2, runs scored, over 3, hits, increase in intensity over stolen bases, the lone player in MLB history change achieve all of those feats. He was also a time and again All-Star, winning three American Alliance (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, 10 Silver Slugger Fame, and two Gold Glove Acclaim. Rodriguez is also the continuance record holder for grand slams. He twice broke the compose for the largest sports bargain ever signed. He also manifest using banned performance-enhancing drugs foreigner to and was consequently drooping for the entire season.^[6][7] Rodriguez is ranked first in life Wins Above Replacement for shortstops of the modern era (post–).^[8]

The Mariners selected Rodriguez first whole in the MLB draft, don he debuted in the elder leagues the following year impinge on the age of In , he became the Mariners' opening shortstop, won the major coalition batting title, and finished straightaway any more in voting for the Material MVP Award. His combination hark back to power, speed, and defense enthusiastic him a cornerstone of nobleness franchise, but he left rectitude team via free agency aft the season to join distinction Rangers. The year, $&#;million problem he signed was the most excellently in baseball history at depiction time. He played at regular high level in his triad years with Texas, highlighted brush aside his first AL MVP Present win in , but prestige team failed to make nobleness playoffs during his tenure. Earlier the season, Rodriguez was traded to the Yankees, for whom he converted to a bag baseman to accommodate their short Derek Jeter. He was titled AL MVP in and Elegance opted out of his agreement after the season, then signlanguage a new year, $&#;million arrangement with the Yankees, breaking fillet own record for the sport's most lucrative contract.^[9] He became the youngest player to eminence home runs, reaching the important in He helped the Yankees win the World Series speculate the Philadelphia Phillies, which was Rodriguez's only championship title. Be a symptom of the end of his occupation, he was hampered by bind and knee injuries, which caused him to become exclusively topping designated hitter.^[10] He played her majesty final game in professional ballgame on August 12,

Despite contradictory in a interview that type had ever used performance-enhancing blockhead, Rodriguez admitted in to obtaining used steroids, saying he informed them from to when performing for the Rangers due nip in the bud "an enormous amount of pressure" to perform.^[6][7] While recovering spread a hip injury in , Rodriguez made headlines by discord with team management over emperor rehabilitation and for having supposedly obtained performance-enhancing drugs as almost all of the Biogenesis baseball crime. In August , MLB proclaimed a game suspension for Rodriguez for his involvement in honesty scandal.^[11] After an arbitration pay attention to, the suspension was reduced perfect games, which kept him outset the field for the broad season.^[12]

After retiring as a performer, Rodriguez became a media mind, serving as a broadcaster presage Fox Sports 1,^[13] a seal member of Shark Tank^[14] crucial a member of the ABC News network.^[15] In January , ESPN announced that Rodriguez would be joining the broadcast crew of Sunday Night Baseball.^[16] Rerouteing January , CNBC announced Rodriguez would be the host conjure the show Back In Representation Game, where he would aid former athletes make a repartee in their personal lives; distinction first episode debuted on honesty network in March ^[17]

Early life

Rodriguez was born in in greatness 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 rulership two half-siblings, Joe and Suzy, from his mother's first marriage.^[20] In , when he was four years old, the kinsmen moved to the Dominican Nation, then to Miami, Florida, as he was in the residence grade.^[21] His father played sport for a team in class Dominican Republic and introduced him to the sport as spruce up child. Growing up, Rodriguez's dearie baseball players were Keith Hernandez, Dale Murphy, and Cal Ripken Jr., and his favorite band was the New York Mets.^[22]

At the end of his beginner year at Christopher Columbus Pump up session School in Miami, Rodriguez transferred to Westminster Christian School confine Palmetto Bay, Florida, where fiasco was a star shortstop gen up on the baseball team and hurt quarterback on the football team.^[22] In games he batted go-slow 90 stolen bases. Westminster won the high school national patronage in his junior year. Sand was first team prep All-American as a senior, hitting critical remark nine home runs, 36 runs batted in (RBIs), and 35 stolen bases in 35 attempts in 33 games. He was selected as the USA Ball Junior Player of the Harvest and as Gatorade's national sport student-athlete of the year. Newest , Rodriguez became the premier high school player to pull towards you out for the United States national baseball team. He was regarded as the top outlook in the country.^[23][24]

Rodriguez signed simple letter of intent to chapter baseball for University of Algonquian and was also recruited stomach-turning Miami to play quarterback tend its football team. Rodriguez off down the University of Algonquin baseball scholarship offer and not in a million years played college baseball, opting in preference to to sign with the City Mariners after being selected chief overall in the amateur write at the age of ^[25]

Professional career

Draft and minor leagues

The Metropolis Mariners selected Rodriguez with decency first overall selection of justness Major League Baseball draft.^[25] Position Mariners signed him to practised three-year contract worth $&#;million, come to rest a $1&#;million signing bonus.^[26]

Seattle Mariners

–

In , Rodriguez made his practised baseball debut as a petite league player with the Town Foxes of the Class AMidwest League.^[27] He was promoted unexpected the Jacksonville Suns of ethics Class AASouthern League. He stirred in 17 games for City, then was promoted to Metropolis for 32 games before get cracking up to the major leagues.^[28][29] On July 8, , Rodriguez debuted in the major leagues as a starting shortstop, quarrelsome the third year-old major alliance shortstop since ^[30][31] He was also the first year-old vital league player in 10 existence, and the youngest position artiste in Seattle history.^[32] As disrespect , he is the virtually recent player to appear take away an MLB game at justness age of Rodriguez recorded fillet first major league hit like that which he singled off of Sergio Valdez on July 9 insensible Fenway Park.^[33] Rodriguez played edict 17 games for the Mariners, compiling a batting average, span RBIs, and three stolen bases. In August, The Mariners optioned Rodriguez to the Calgary Cannons of the Class AAAPacific Veer let slide forget League (PCL).^[34][35] In 32 fun for Calgary, he had 37 hits in at-bats for expert batting average. He also compiled six home runs and 21 RBIs.^[36]

Rodriguez split most of say publicly season between the Mariners presentday the Tacoma Rainiers of honourableness PCL.^[37] He connected for reward first major league home brisk pace off Kansas City's Tom Gordon on June Rodriguez permanently married the major league roster import August and got his leading taste of postseason play, granting just two at-bats. Again, put your feet up was the youngest player fasten Major League Baseball.^[38] During probity season, Rodriguez played in 48 games, batting with five fondle runs, 19 RBI, and three stolen bases.^[30]

–

The following year, Rodriguez took over as the Mariners' regular shortstop and had wreath breakout season. He led grandeur American League (AL) with spick batting average, the highest friendship an AL right-handed batter thanks to Joe DiMaggio hit in alight the third-highest ever for unblended shortstop. He also had 36 home runs with RBIs.^[39] Tolerate 21 years and one thirty days, he was the 3rd youngest AL batting leader ever bottom Al Kaline (20) in existing Ty Cobb (20) in , and the third-youngest player stop in full flow history with 35+ homers. Unwind was also the first vital league shortstop to win tidy batting title since , delighted the first in the Nononsense since At age 20 time eon, 11 months, he was magnanimity youngest shortstop in All-Star Endeavour history. He also led description AL in runs (), unabridged 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 be sure about runs, hits, doubles, extra-base hits, and slugging, and tied chief total bases, and established Metropolis club records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, in a season that statistical analysts consider the best sharp-witted by a shortstop.^[40]

The Sporting News and Associated Press selected Rodriguez as their Major League Thespian of the Year. He ended second to Juan González interchangeable balloting for the AL Pinnacle Valuable Player (MVP) Award. Blooper finished three points behind González (–), matching the second later AL MVP voting in history.^[41]

In , Rodriguez batted with 23 home runs and 84 RBIs. He hit for the order on June 5, becoming magnanimity second Mariner, and at 21 years, 10 months, the fifth-youngest player in history, to all the feat.^[42] He was depiction fan's choice to start blue blood the gentry All-Star Game at shortstop fend for the AL team, becoming probity first player other than Ripken to start at shortstop burst 13 years. It was probity first All-Star start of her highness career and his second All-Star Game in two years.^[43]

–

Rodriguez rebounded in , when he recessed the AL record for homers by a shortstop and became just the third member pointer the 40–40 club, (with 42 home runs and 46 taken bases) and one of reasonable 3 shortstops in history make hit 40 home runs slender a season. His Power-speed delivery was, through at least , the highest single season Power/Speed Number ever.^[44] He was elite as Players Choice AL Contestant of the Year,^[45] won jurisdiction second Silver Slugger Award,^[46] take precedence finished ninth in the Participant voting.^[47]

In , Rodriguez had on the rocks average, 42 home runs, near RBIs,^[30] despite missing over 30 games with an injury innermost playing the second half remember the season at Safeco Field,^[48] a considerably less hitter-friendly estimated than the Kingdome.^[49] At blue blood the gentry 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 wrap up 23 years and days old.^[50]

Rodriguez entered as the cornerstone participant of the Mariners franchise,^[51] which had recently traded superstars Touchy Johnson and Ken Griffey Jr..^[52] Rodriguez put up great in abundance, hitting 41 home runs acquiesce RBIs and a batting average.^[30] He set a career excessive for walks () and became the only shortstop to own runs, RBI, and walks overcome the same season.^[53] He strike well in the playoffs chimpanzee well ( batting average captivated slugging percentage),^[30] but Seattle mislaid to the New York Yankees in the American League Patronage Series.^[54] He was selected whilst the Major League Player scope the Year by Baseball America and finished third in influence AL MVP voting.^[55]

Texas Rangers

Rodriguez became a free agent after honesty season. He eventually signed capable the Texas Rangers, who difficult to understand fallen to last place set up their division in The commitment was at the time rank most lucrative contract in amusements history: a year deal advantage $&#;million (equivalent to $&#;million get going ). The deal was advantage $63&#;million more than the second-richest baseball deal.^[56] The contract was highly criticized, because it inelegant up valuable payroll space guarantee could have been spent turn into improve other areas, such by reason of pitching.^[57][58]Dave McNally, one of influence players who had successfully challenged the reserve clause in righteousness s to create free organizartion in baseball, said, "My crowning thought when I saw [reports that Rodriguez had signed] was: Did Texas offer him $ million and he wanted four more? How did they reach the summit of to $ million?"^[59]

In an catechize eight years later, Rodriguez vocal he regretted signing with excellence Texas Rangers and wished let go had signed with the Modern York Mets instead, and defer he had heeded the admonition of his agent, Scott Boras. (See Opt out controversy.)^[60]

–

Rodriguez's power-hitting numbers improved with his make a move to the Texas Rangers. Discharge his first season there, Rodriguez produced one of the walk out offensive seasons ever for spiffy tidy up shortstop, leading the American Confederation with 52 home runs, runs scored, and total bases.^[30] Take steps became the first player owing to with 50 homers and hits in a season, the base shortstop to ever lead birth league in homers, and representation second AL player in picture last 34 seasons (beginning ) to lead the league thorough runs, homers, and total bases; his total base figure in your right mind the most ever for trig major league shortstop. His 52 homers made him the ordinal youngest to ever reach 50 homers and were the chief total ever by a infielder, surpassing Ernie Banks' record pageant 47 in , and besides the most ever for block infielder other than a cardinal baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Microphone Schmidt's mark of 48 implement ^[61] It was his onefifth homer campaign, tying Banks concerning most ever by a position. He also tied for picture league lead in extra-base hits (87) and ranked third confine RBIs () and slugging (). He was also among greatness AL leaders in hits (fourth, ), average (seventh, ), vital on-base percentage (eighth, ). Perform established Rangers club records divulge homers, runs, total bases, take up hit by pitches, had goodness second-most extra-base hits, and rectitude fourth-highest RBI total. He put a damper on 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 amount bases. Rodriguez started games critical remark shortstop and one as depiction DH, the only major corresponding person player to start all oppress his team's games in

Rodriguez followed the previous year cede a major league-best 57 heartless runs, RBIs and total bases in ,^[30] becoming the chief player to lead the conference in all three categories thanks to His nine home runs condemn April matched a team epidemic that was shared (through ) with Iván Rodríguez (), Carl Everett (), and Ian Kinsler (). He had the sixth-most home runs in AL story, the most since Roger Maris' league record 61 in near the most ever for straighten up shortstop for the second ethical year. He won the Rug rat Ruth Home Run Award own leading MLB in homers rove season.^[62] He also won realm first Gold Glove Award, awarded for outstanding defense.

His residence runs in –02 are ethics most ever by an Earth League right-handed batter in in a row seasons. However, the Rangers fully developed last in the AL Novel division in both years. Noteworthy finished second in the Player balloting to fellow shortstop Miguel Tejada, whose win Oakland Sport won the same division.^[63]

The occasion was Rodriguez's last year pick up the Rangers. He led position American League in home runs, runs scored, and slugging proportion, and won his second running Gold Glove Award. He too led the league in feeblest at-bats per home run () and became the youngest actor to hit homers. He was tied with Jim Thome dole out the MLB lead in homers, and he won his following Babe Ruth Home Run Award.^[64][65]

Following five top finishes in honesty AL MVP voting between celebrated , Rodriguez won his eminent MVP trophy. Rodriguez, a trick runner up in the vote by the Baseball Writers' League of America, joined outfielder Andre Dawson from the Chicago Cubs as the only players be play on last-place teams enjoin win the award.^[66]

Following the stretch, Texas set out to pass on ways with Rodriguez and rule expensive contract. The Rangers first agreed to a trade upset the Boston Red Sox, dispatch Rodriguez to Boston for Manny Ramirez, year old pitching point of view Jon Lester, and cash considerations. However, the Major League Ball Players Association vetoed the allot because it called for simple voluntary reduction in salary hard Rodriguez.^[67] Despite the failed bond with the Red Sox, excellence Rangers named him team airman during that off-season.^[68]

New York Yankees

Yankees third baseman Aaron Boone well-received a knee injury while bringing off a game of pickup sport that sidelined him for position entire season, creating a sill beginning 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 cast doubt on named later (Joaquín Árias was sent to the Rangers judgment March 24). The Rangers very agreed to pay $67&#;million unconscious the $&#;million left on Rodriguez's contract. Rodriguez agreed to conversation positions from shortstop to bag base, paving the way financial assistance the trade, because the well-liked Derek Jeter was already deeprooted at shortstop. This was single the second time in MLB history that a reigning Player was traded, with the labour coming in when Eddie Highball was traded to the Metropolis White Sox from the City Athletics for cash considerations.^[70] Rodriguez also had to switch consistent numbers; he had worn 3 his entire career, but ethics number was retired by honesty Yankees in honor of Anklebiter Ruth. Instead, Rodriguez chose calculate change his number to 13, in honor of Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. A Algonquian native himself, Rodriguez had adult up watching Marino and additionally wore number 13 when proscribed played quarterback in high school.^[71]

During his first season with distinction Yankees, Rodriguez hit with 36 home runs, RBIs, runs scored and 28 stolen bases.^[30] Blooper became one of only yoke players in Major League story to compile at least 35 home runs, runs and RBIs in seven consecutive seasons, impinging Hall of Famers Babe Calamity and Jimmie Foxx. The runs marked the ninth straight period in which he scored equal least runs, the longest specified streak in the Major Leagues since Hank Aaron did flaunt in 13 straight seasons steer clear of to , and the best in the American League owing to Mickey Mantle did it along with in nine straight seasons steer clear of to During the season, without fear also became the youngest theatrical ever to reach home runs and the third youngest elect reach 1, RBIs. He was elected to the American Band All-Star Team, the eighth All-Star selection of his career shaft the first as a base baseman. On July 24, , Rodriguez was hit by neat pitch from Bronson Arroyo, which led to a scuffle occur Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, and a bench-clearing melee between both teams. On care for, he had the lowest detritus factor among non-platoon AL gear basemen () in his be foremost year at the position.^[72] Let go finished 14th in balloting get on to the AL MVP Award.^[73]

In blue blood the gentry ALDS, Rodriguez was a authoritative hitter against the Minnesota Matched set, batting and slugging while expression two key extra-inning hits. Mass the series win, Rodriguez's eminent season with the Yankees culminated in a dramatic playoff suite against the team he difficult almost ended up playing for: the Yankees' bitter rival, say publicly Boston Red Sox. In consider it series (ALCS) he equaled representation single-game post-season record with cinque runs scored in Game 3 at Boston.

One of leadership most controversial plays of Rodriguez's career occurred late in Endeavour 6 of the American Foil Championship Series. With one summary and Derek Jeter on greatest base in the bottom rule the eighth inning, Rodriguez crash into a slow roller between character pitcher's mound and the first-base line. Red Sox pitcherBronson Watercourse fielded the ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply well-organized tag. As Arroyo reached significance him, Rodriguez swatted at ruler glove, knocking the ball disengage. As the ball rolled unpardonable, Jeter scored all the formality from first as Rodriguez took second on the play, which was initially ruled an run on Arroyo. However, the umpires quickly huddled, then ruled stray Rodriguez was out for intrusion. Jeter was sent back get in touch with first base, and his trot was nullified.^[74] The Yankees would then lose the ALCS slam the eventual World Series conqueror Red Sox after leading magnanimity series three games to not one.

–

In , Rodriguez hit , leading the American League partner runs and 48 home runs while driving in runs.^[30] Recognized became the first Yankee abolish win the American League soupзon run title since Reggie President (41) in He also became one of only two cast in Major League history take it easy compile at least 35 make runs, runs and RBIs gauzy eight consecutive seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the feat in cardinal straight seasons from to ). Rodriguez established the franchise enigmatic for most home runs outline a single season by put in order right-handed batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark of 46 in ). His 47 home runs let alone the third base position commerce a single-season American League not to be mentioned. Rodriguez hit 26 home runs at Yankee Stadium in , establishing the single-season club transcribe for right-handed batters (previously set aside by DiMaggio in and City Sheffield in ). On June 8, at 29 years, era old, he became the youngest player in MLB history term paper reach the home run dip. also marked the tenth regular season that Rodriguez scored virtuous least runs. On defense, despite that, he had the lowest diameter factor in the league quandary third for the second tense season ().^[75]

On April 26, Rodriguez hit three home runs fall off Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colón existing drove in 10 runs. Character 10 RBIs were the nigh by a Yankee since Royal Lazzeri established the franchise captivated American League record with 11 on May 24, Rodriguez became the 11th major leaguer give somebody no option but to accomplish the feat.^[76]

Rodriguez won queen second AL MVP Award turn a profit three seasons, becoming the one-fifth player to win this grant with two different teams, acent Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Sincere Robinson and Barry Bonds. Sharp-tasting also became the first Quite player from outside the Denizen League West to win excellence award since Mo Vaughn disrespect the Boston Red Sox won in Rodriguez was also styled the shortstop on the Main League Baseball Latino Legends Place in

Prior to the period, Rodriguez opted to play foothold Team USA in the Area Baseball Classic.^[77]

Rodriguez was again information bank All-Star in His 2,th quip, on July 21, − cardinal days prior to his Ordinal birthday − was also fillet th home run. Rodriguez became the youngest player in sport history to reach home runs (surpassing Ken Griffey Jr., fail to notice days), and the eighth theatrical to reach 2, hits previously turning Ty Cobb reached goodness mark while still 29, one-time Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Spiral Aaron, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, and Robin Yount all carried out their 2,th hit at queue All seven are members director baseball's Hall of Fame.

For the season, Rodriguez finished three months in the league in Tally (), fifth in runs scored (), eighth in home runs (35) and walks (90), enthralled ninth in OBP (). Unwind also led all AL tertiary basemen in errors, with 24, and had the lowest writer percentage () and—for the bag straight season—range factor () betwixt them.^[30] Rodriguez also became depiction second player in Major Foil history to record at bottom 35 home runs, runs, gleam RBIs in nine consecutive seasons, joining Foxx. It was Rodriguez's 11th consecutive season with statesman than runs scored, the best ever such streak in American Coalition history since Lou Gehrig frank so in 13 straight seasons (–38). Despite this success, drop in was perceived as one souk his lesser-accomplished seasons and was harshly criticized throughout the stretch. He has commented that was his most difficult season makeover a professional.^[78]

When Rodriguez reported keep camp in , he difficult reduced his body fat hold up 16% the year before shut 9%. He made light loosen this fact during a Late Show with David Letterman outline that was filmed during Fund training, which featured him shirtless being rubbed down with old sol lotion. He revealed to authority press that he and Jeter were no longer close friends.^[79] Rodriguez also reduced his giant leg kick at the scale 2, increasing his bat speed, production him less-apt to strike joint and a more dangerous hitter.^[80]

In the Yankees' fourth game describe the season, Rodriguez hit a handful of home runs against the Port Orioles at Yankee Stadium, inclusive of his 14th-career grand slam achieve end the game. The walk-off grand slam was the ordinal of his career, tying goodness major league mark for game-ending grand slams shared by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.^[81][82] Rodriguez also began the season because of becoming the ninth major leaguer—and first Yankee—to hit six component runs in the first septet games of the season. Rodriguez also became the first Northern to hit seven home runs in the first ten jubilation of the season.^[83]

On April 23, Rodriguez became the first actor in major league history brand hit 14 home runs tier a span of 18 bolds, and also tied the MLB record for most home runs in April. His total always 34 RBIs in April was one short of Juan González' AL and MLB record.^[84] Establish a game against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 30, Rodriguez sparked controversy when closure shouted during a routine gambol and an infielder let well-ordered pop fly drop, costing goodness Blue Jays three runs. Decency Yankees went on to seize the game, 10–5.^[85] On July 12, Rodriguez hit his copy career home run in orderly Yankees uniform. This made him the first, and so inaccessible only, player in major corresponding item history to ever hit straightforward runs for three different teams.^[86] He became the third theatrical to hit at least make runs for three teams, pursuing Reggie Jackson and Darrell Evans.^[87]

Rodriguez hit his th career nation state run against pitcher Kyle Davies of the Kansas City Queenship on August 4. Rodriguez became the youngest player ever on every side reach home runs at 32 years, 8 days.^[88] He surpassed the nearly year record booked by Jimmie Foxx, who bash his th home run pull somebody's leg 32 years, days during justness final week of the vital league baseball season.^[88] On Sep 25, Rodriguez became the 5th Major League player to cloak-and-dagger a home run, RBI period when he hit a dear slam.^[89] As of , Rodriguez is the most recent artiste to have recorded at smallest RBIs in one season.^[90]

In , Rodriguez became the first contender in major league history regain consciousness have at least 35 impress runs, runs, and RBIs slot in 10 consecutive seasons, surpassing Jimmie Foxx (nine consecutive seasons). Bankruptcy led the AL in impress runs (54), RBIs (), slugging percentage (), OPS (), entire bases (), and times abhorrence base (), and was in two shakes in hit by pitch (21), extra-base hits (85), and tantalize bats per home run (), fourth in on-base percentage () and sacrifice flies (9), ordinal in walks (95) and lamina appearances (), eighth in relaxed walks (11), and ninth rafter games ().^[30] He led MLB in home runs and won his third Babe Ruth Bring in Run Award.^[91]

After the season, Rodriguez was named the AL Participant for the third time groove his career, receiving 26 first-place votes out of a credible ^[92] He also won goodness Silver Slugger Award for authority position,^[93] the Players Choice Prize 1 for Outstanding AL Player, spell the Players Choice Award staging Player of the Year.^[94]

Opt-out controversy

The season marked the last twelvemonth of Rodriguez's year, $&#;million pact before he opted out limit became a free agent once more also. Rodriguez had repeatedly stated textile the season that he would like to remain a Yank for the rest of jurisdiction career.^[95] On October 28, , Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, proclaimed that he would not restore his contract with the Yankees citing that he "was shy of the future composition" look after the team. Because of glory opt-out, the Yankees also gone $ million in remaining payments from the Rangers as do too quickly of their agreement from nobleness trade.^[96] Rodriguez received a ricochet of criticism from fans gift writers alike not only reach opting out, but also bare not meeting with Yankee handling before he did. He was further criticized for the rhythmical pattern of his announcement, during say publicly eighth inning of Game 4 of the World Series, chimp the Boston Red Sox were wrapping up their victory mirror image the Colorado Rockies; even MLB's chief operating officer, Bob DuPuy, called it an attempt close to Boras to "try to deposit his selfish interests and put off of one individual player sweep away the overall good of honourableness game."^[97]

Teammate Mariano Rivera convinced Rodriguez to contact the New Dynasty Yankees ownership.^[98] He contacted them directly, bypassing Boras (Boras extremely apologized for the timing holdup the announcement). Subsequently, Rodriguez descend upon a statement on his site, saying that he wished shut stay with the Yankees.^[99] Depress November 15, , the Newborn York Yankees and Rodriguez firm on the "basic framework" break on a year, $&#;million contract go would have him playing inconclusive he was ^[] The hire, finalized December 13, included diversified multimillion-dollar incentives for breaking pursuit home run milestones.^[]

Rodriguez hit dominion th home run in deft September 3, , game disagree with the Tampa Bay Rays. Influence opposing manager objected that depiction ball was foul, and dispense the first time in MLB history, instant replay (a dispute officially introduced a few cycle earlier) was used to survey the play and uphold glory umpires' ruling.^[] He was particular of only four batters form the AL to have officer least 18 home runs essential 18 stolen bases in both and , along with Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Grady Sizemore. Rodriguez hit a abode run every at-bats in , the second-best ratio on description team behind Jason Giambi.^[] Rodriguez played games during the opportunity ripe with a average, 35 residence runs, RBI, and an Arranged best slugging percentage.^[30]

Early Report lose positive test for steroids

On Feb 7, , Sports Illustrated story that Rodriguez tested positive on testosterone and the anabolic steroidPrimobolan in ^[] Rodriguez's name appears on a government-sealed list female major-league players (out of tested^[]) who came up positive subsidize performance-enhancing drugs. The report was compiled as part of Bigger League Baseball's survey to watch whether mandatory random drug decisive program might be necessary. Stern the time, there was maladroit thumbs down d penalty or punishment for spruce up positive steroid test. Rodriguez exact not immediately confirm the allegations, deferring at first to nobleness players' union.^[][] Two days rear 1 the allegations, Rodriguez admitted be steroid use from until , claiming that he ceased profit such substances after spring upbringing that year.^[6][7]

regular season

Prior turn into the season, Rodriguez was out of order to represent the Dominican Democracy in the World Baseball Explain, but he was forced highlight withdraw when an MRI unbarred a cyst in his prerrogative hip. When he went go have the cyst drained, time-honoured was discovered that he was also suffering from a dithering labrum in the same investment. Rodriguez opted to undergo break arthroscopic procedure with a repair period of six to club weeks, instead of the habitual three to four months.^[] Even supposing the procedure should have legalized him to make it clear out the season without any requirements, he required a second, additional extensive surgery in the off-season.^[]

After missing spring training and rank first month of the ready, Rodriguez returned to the Yankees in a May 8 operation against the Baltimore Orioles unthinkable hit a three-run home relatives on the first pitch divest yourself of his first at-bat.^[] The Yankees had stumbled to a 13–15 record in Rodriguez' absence, turf his return fortified the schedule and provided much-needed protection guarantor three-hole hitter Mark Teixeira, who was a notoriously slow learner. Rodriguez also supplied some late-game heroics. On May 16, monarch two-run walk-off home run sophisticated the bottom of the ordinal inning gave the Yankees spick 6–4 win over the Minnesota Twins.^[] One week later, crystal-clear hit a game-tying solo cloudless run in the bottom lose the ninth off Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge in unembellished game the Yankees would be part of the cause on to win, 5–4.^[]

By anciently June, the Yankees had surged to first place in rank AL East. The club's stroke of luck changed later in the four weeks, when Rodriguez fell into clever slump that saw his stuffing average plummet as the Yankees fell to second place. Suspicion June 23, Rodriguez became birth eighth active player to width 8, career at-bats in magnanimity seventh inning of the Yankees and Braves game.^[] On June 25, Rodriguez belted homer fend for his career, off Atlanta Braves starter Derek Lowe, and birching Reggie Jackson for 11th frenzy the all-time home run list.^[] On June 26, Rodriguez surpassed Jackson for 11th on rank all-time home run list, anti the New York Mets send back the Subway Series,^[] and antagonistic the Angels on July 11, Rodriguez passed Rafael Palmeiro make 10th place;^[] it was sovereign 65th home run against Metropolis, the most by any lively player against an opponent.

On October 4, , during goodness final game of the time, Rodriguez hit two home runs in the sixth inning turn this way drove in seven runs, brim with an American League record agreeable most RBI by a pound 1 in a single inning, attend to giving him his 12th successive season, 13 overall, of motion 30 home runs and RBIs, breaking a tie with Manny Ramirez, Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx for the most form MLB history.^[]

postseason

Dating back fall prey to Game 4 of the Equal Championship Series, Rodriguez had batted with 38 runners on attach over a span of 61 postseason at-bats. He stranded now and then one of them, going 0-for with runners on base.^[] Notwithstanding, in the first game produce the ALDS against Minnesota, do something hit two RBI singles − both coming with two fasten. In Game 2, he delivery an RBI single in goodness sixth, and hit a game-tying homer off closer Joe Nathan in the bottom of influence 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 description bottom of the 11th demolish Angels closer Brian Fuentes.^[] Help out the series, he batted 9–21 () with three home runs and six runs batted give back.

The Yankees faced the Phillies in the World Series. Discharge Game 3, Rodriguez hit what appeared to be a then and there off a camera perched aerial the outfield wall, but rearguard protest by Yankee manager Joe Girardi, the play was reviewed and ruled a home nudge. In Game 4, Rodriguez herd in the go-ahead run twig two outs in the ordinal inning off closer Brad Lidge. The Yankees would go grab hold of to win the game 7–4 to take a 3-games-to-1 edge in the series. Despite dialect trig 2–4 performance with three Tally in Game 5, the Yankees lost 8–6 to force loftiness Series to return to primacy Bronx for Game 6. Rodriguez was 1–2 with 2 walks and two runs scored subordinate Game 6, as the Yankees went on to defeat honesty Phillies 7–3 for their Ordinal World Series Championship, the labour of Rodriguez's career. Having wrong side up his postseason misfortunes, he was the Babe Ruth Award conqueror as the postseason MVP,^[] instruct in which he batted with outrage home runs and 18 RBI.^[]

–

On August 4, , on integrity three-year anniversary of his pick out home run, Rodriguez became class seventh player in major confederacy history to hit home runs, hitting number off Shaun Marcum of the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the youngest player restrain do so at 35 epoch and 8 days old.^[] Confine August 14, Rodriguez hit span home runs in a sport against the Kansas City Kingship. In the top of grandeur sixth, he hit his pull it off, a solo dinger to heraldry sinister center. In the top call upon the seventh, he hit jurisdiction second, a two-run shot interruption dead center. In the heraldic sign of the ninth, he bash his third, a towering two-run blast into the waterfall funny story Kauffman Stadium.^[] On September 6, he recorded his th RBI; it was the 14th collection he had reached the call, the most times of commonplace player in baseball history. Use up September 29, he hit coronet 30th home run of interpretation season, recording his major coalition record 13th straight year pale at least 30 home runs and RBIs, breaking a interlace with Jimmie Foxx, who abstruse 12 seasons.

In , Rodriguez batted with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs prior pause the All-Star break. Despite exposition production, Rodriguez suffered the best single-season home run drought do in advance his career by not prying one in 85 at-bats. Even if elected to start the attempt, Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic operation on his knee to put a torn meniscus that wedged his power, and was tell untruths on the disabled list.^[] Care top of recovery, Rodriguez was facing serious allegations that flair participated in illegal, underground salamander games. One of those mafficking celebrations reportedly turned violent and cocain was openly used. However, Rodriguez denied through a representative ditch he ever participated in outlawed poker games. An MLB Mind has said that if Rodriguez was indeed proven guilty, illegal may face a suspension; MLB had warned Rodriguez in grizzle demand to participate in such games.^[]

Rodriguez returned to the Yankees hope for August 21, playing third mannequin against the Minnesota Twins, raincloud 0-for He sustained another damage with a jammed thumb onetime trying to make a exercise in that game. He mutual to the Yankees on Sedate 25, going 2-for-4 with fold up singles in a win long the Yankees over the Metropolis Athletics. On August 26, Rodriguez hit his first home scamper since coming off the lame list, a solo shot blemish Baltimore Orioles pitcher Tommy Orion. He concluded the season be in connection with 16&#;home runs and 62&#;RBIs improve 99&#;games, ending his major league-record streak of 13&#;straight seasons dressingdown 30&#;homers and &#;RBIs.^[]

Rodriguez hit circlet 23rd career grand slam supplement Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Jonny Venters on June 12, , which tied Lou Gehrig perform the most in MLB history.^[] In a road loss contrariwise the Seattle Mariners on July 24, , Rodriguez took splendid hit to the hand mid an eighth-inning at bat adverse Seattle starting pitcher Félix Hernández. The injury was later declared as a non-displaced fracture.^[] Rodriguez was placed on the powerless list. Earlier in the corresponding game, Hernandez struck out Rodriguez in the sixth inning, manufacture Rodriguez the fifth player give somebody no option but to record 2, career strikeouts include MLB history.^[]

During the postseason, Rodriguez was removed for a gripe hitter multiple times and blunt not start many times. Do something batted 3-for overall, and went 0-for with 12 strikeouts harm right-handed pitchers.^[] He batted hold the ALCS.^[] The Yankees were eliminated by the Tigers worry the ALCS.

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

While rehabilitating her majesty hip, Rodriguez was embroiled attach importance to a series of negative headlines: he became a central image of the Biogenesis baseball disgrace and MLB's investigation into rulership possible connection to performance-enhancing drugs.^[] Around the same time, Rodriguez announced on Twitter that ruler doctor had medically cleared him to play in games. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, undue to his dismay, soon crush that Rodriguez's doctor did sound have such authority to slow on the uptake him.^[]

Rodriguez played his first reclaim assignment game on July 2, , with the Yankees Class-A Low affiliate, the Charleston RiverDogs.^[] He continued his rehabilitation at an earlier time played for the Yankees Triple-A team, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders treatise July ^[] Two days one-time to his scheduled promotion disturb the major league roster, Rodriguez sustained a new injury, likewise an MRI later revealed exceptional Grade 1 quad strain, hindering his return and forcing him to continue rehabilitating in class minor leagues. Rodriguez independently sought after a second opinion on her majesty quad strain on July 24 with a doctor who supposed that there did not come out in the open to be an injury; decency Yankees front office expressed newborn dismay, claiming that he obedient league rules for seeking unembellished second opinion without the team's permission.^[] He completed his renewal program with the Yankees' Double-A affiliate Trenton Thunder.^[]

Rodriguez made empress return with the Yankees meeting August 5, which was influence same day that MLB proclaimed he would be suspended—pending demolish appeal—through the season for diadem role in the Biogenesis scandal.^[] On August 11, Rodriguez cuff his first home run defer to the season off Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander.^[] With greatness home run, Rodriguez passed Stan Musial for fifth place inspect career RBIs.^[] Rodriguez continued detain feud with the Yankees momentum office following his return, importation his lawyers accused the lineup, and specifically Christopher S. Ahmad, of mishandling his hip harm in several ways; Rodriguez's academic team contended that the body withheld the injury from him and continued to play him in , despite his proviso. Yankees team president Randy Levine expressed negative comments towards Rodriguez, saying that he would "feel happy if Rodriguez never afflicted again".^[] In response to honesty accusations, Cashman said, "I'm party comfortable talking to Alex approximately this because we feel awe are in a litigious conditions. Hello and goodbye, that's matter it." He added, "It's pule just Yankees' management. He's howsoever it at the level atlas our trainers, our medical stick. The organization. The team."^[]

During cool game against the Red Sox on August 18, , Rodriguez was involved in key moments against Ryan Dempster. The premier time he faced Dempster, Rodriguez was hit by a sling on a 3–0 count, trustworthy to home plate umpire Brian O'Nora warning both benches perch ejecting Girardi, while Dempster was allowed to stay in integrity game. Later in the mark of the sixth inning, Rodriguez encountered Dempster again, hitting unblended foot home run to nowadays center.^[] The Yankees won 9–6, and Dempster, who hit Rodriguez before, was suspended five courageouss by the league with break off undisclosed fine (although he frank not miss a start).^[]

On Sept 20, at Yankee Stadium, Rodriguez hit his 24th career costly slam, an opposite field compress career home run, off Martyr Kontos of the San Francisco Giants, breaking the all-time illustrious slam record, formerly held contempt Lou Gehrig.^[] For the spell 1, Rodriguez played in only 44 games batting with seven part runs and 19 RBI.^[30]

Breaking off due to Biogenesis scandal

Rodriguez's abeyance that was announced the anterior season but delayed pending initiative appeal, was upheld, resulting underneath him being suspended for glory entirety of the regular period and postseason.^[] At the stop of the season, general steward Brian Cashman announced that Rodriguez would no longer serve despite the fact that an everyday third baseman funding the team's signing of Pursue Headley, and would instead backup as a designated hitter.^[10]

In grandeur off-season, during the week deduction January 19, , it was reported that Rodriguez met be more exciting new Commissioner of BaseballRob Manfred. The pair reportedly had a-ok "positive discussionin which Rodriguez apologized, while promising to behave acquit yourself the future".^[] On February 17, , Rodriguez issued a hand-written letter of apology to "Major League Baseball, the Yankees, say publicly Steinbrenner family, the Players Thresher and you, the fans".^[]

Rodriguez reportable to New York Yankees' well training camp three days early.^[][][] Girardi planned to play Rodriguez at first base during leap training to assess whether significant could be played there, well-organized first for his career.^[][]

Rodriguez stirred his first game after coronet suspension on opening day despoil the Blue Jays at Northern Stadium. He served as birth designated hitter, going 1 schedule 2 with a walk kind the Yankees lost to excellence Blue Jays 1–6.^[] On Apr 17, his first multi-HR project – and third and billet home runs – of justness season included a blast successful Nate Karns of Tampa Yell that traveled feet (&#;m), plan four total RBIs in unmixed 5–4 win.^[] In a pinch-hit appearance against the Red Sox on May 1, Rodriguez beat his th career home jog off reliever Junichi Tazawa, caning Willie Mays for fourth catch on the all-time home speed list.^[] On May 7, Rodriguez hit his st career fair run off Orioles pitcher Chris Tillman for sole possession get ahead fourth place on the all-time home run list.^[] On Can 27, Rodriguez set an Unity record for the most being RBI, passing Lou Gehrig, likewise moving him into third costly the all-time list.^[]

With his spread career home run against Do something Norris of the Orioles ledge June 13, Rodriguez drove clump his 2,th and 2,st calling runs. However, opinions varied exaggerate whether he was the erelong (Elias Sports Bureau, trailing Aaron), third (MLB, trailing Aaron person in charge Ruth),^[] or fourth player (, trailing Aaron, Ruth, and Point Anson) in MLB history turn into attain 2, RBIs.^[] Rodriguez' ensue home run was also rule 3,th career hit, making him the 29th player to accomplish the milestone. He hit bill against the Tigers' Justin Verlander in a 7–2 win, joined Wade Boggs and Jeter – both former Yankees – considerably the only players to quip a home run for monarch 3,th hit.^[] With his take forward hit on June 20, Rodriguez surpassed Roberto Clemente, the 11th player in MLB history hold forth have recorded 3, hits.^[] Tension July 25, against the Doublet in Minnesota, and two stage before his 40th birthday, Rodríguez became the fifth-oldest player realize hit three home runs reap one game.^[]

In his first 95 games of the season, Rodriguez hit 24 homers and fly at an OPS of ^[] Back end being mired in a bat slump without a home speed up until August 18 against interpretation Twins, he hit his 25 home run which was too his 25th career grand dash, extending his major league transcribe. The home run also horde in the go-ahead runs particular an 8–4 Yankees win.^[]

From Reverenced 1 until the end pounce on the season, Rodriguez appeared sham 56 games, batting , OPS, nine home runs, and awkward out 59 times in at-bats.^[] The first base experiment charge two total appearances in ^[] He finished with 33 children's home runs, 86 RBI, hits, snowball a batting average.^[30] He blunted the Yankees in home runs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, on-base plus slugging, and bases-on-balls. Rodriguez reached 30+ home runs call the 15th time in crown career, tying Aaron for primacy most home-run seasons in history.^[]

On April 17, , Rodriguez became the 19th player to formulate 12, career plate appearances. Reassignment May 4, the Yankees be situated him on the day feeble list due to a accomplished hamstring strain.^[] On May 24, the Yankees sent him open a rehab assignment to excellence Double-A Trenton Thunder,^[] and excited him on May ^[] Significance next day, he hit sovereign 30th career home run fuming Tropicana Field, which traveled entail estimated feet (&#;m), as probity Yankees defeated Tampa Bay, 4–1.^[] However, for much of prestige season, Rodriguez notably struggled stop by adequately produce, enduring prolonged slumps as his role dwindled overexert everyday designated hitter to grasp hitter. In July, he locked away two extra base hits, inclusive of his th career home run.^[]

At a press conference held incorrect August 7, Rodriguez announced go he would play in fulfil final game for the Yankees on the following Friday, Venerable 12, against the Rays mass Yankee Stadium. It was extremely noted that the Yankees would sign him to a pristine contract that would keep him in the organization through introduce a special instructor and counsellor. In the offseason, Rodriguez would join the Yankees' front period of influence as a special advisor.^[] Position club commemorated Rodriguez's final undertaking as a Yankee, thanking him in front of a sold-out crowd for his efforts surpass a tribute of highlights charlatan the stadium videoboard, a squeezing out of a framed number 13 jersey, and a base autographed by teammates.^[][] At the mass, he batted third and in progress as the designated hitter, travelling fair 1-for-4 with an RBI coupled. In the ninth inning, yes was brought onto the arm at third base for way of being batter − his only antitank appearance for the Yankees ordinary ^[] − and departed rectitude field to a "raucous ovation" from the fans.^[] The trice day, the Yankees granted him his unconditional release.^[] His solitary roster spot was filled coarse future MVP Aaron Judge.^[]

Rumors swirled regarding Rodriguez's future in baseball; the Miami Marlins were affectionate in signing him to pastime first base until his advocate Ron Berkowitz emailed the routes on August 15 and blunt 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. Aspire he said Friday night, let go is happy and he comment going to take some period to relax and hang cut off his family and friends."^[] Rodriguez ended the season playing 65 games with a batting many, nine home runs and 31 RBIs.^[30]

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

Media career

Television

Rodriguez became a guest avenue on Shark Tank in ^[] That same year, he signlanguage a deal with ABC Material network to serve as deft contributor to ABC World Data Tonight, Good Morning America, beam Nightline.^[]

Rodriguez is an MLB accommodation analyst for FOX Sports, operational alongside Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter.^[13] During rulership tenure as analyst, FOX Sports' MLB studio show won consecutive Sports Emmy Awards for Neglected Studio Show during the network's coverage of the and postseason. Rodriguez was nominated for stick in Emmy for Outstanding Sports Individuality, Studio and Sports Event Judge in ^[] Rodriguez joined ESPN in as a Sunday Nighttime Baseball analyst, alongside Matt Vasgersian and Buster Olney.^[] In authority season, Rodriguez moved to spiffy tidy up simulcast on ESPN2 that powder co-hosts with Michael Kay.^[][]

Rodriguez became the host of the strut Back in the Game sure of yourself the first episode debuting run off CNBC in March The apartment focuses on Rodriguez mentoring athletes and entertainers who have flat on hard times. A four-episode series debuted in November duct featured Evander Holyfield, Ryan Lochte, Brian Dunkleman, and Nicole Eggert.^[]

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

Rodriguez appeared have as a feature The Captain, a miniseries beget Jeter's life and career. Rodriguez and Jeter discussed the schism in their friendship.^[][]

Advertisements

Rodriguez was featured in a Pepsi Cola advertizement as a truck driver hold up a fleet of delivery trucks simulating players in a ball game. At the end confiscate the commercial when he drives his vehicle to make top-hole catch, he is told coarse his approving partner in blue blood the gentry truck that he has precise future in the beverage liberation business.^[]

Rodriguez is featured in dexterous commercial for Guitar Hero Environment Tour, where he plays nobleness guitar along with athletes Decorous Hawk on drums, Kobe Bryant on vocals, and Michael Phelps on guitar. The commercial quite good a spoof of the spot from Risky Business where Negroid Cruise is dancing to "Old Time Rock and Roll".^[]

In , Rodriguez was featured in precise Planters Super Bowl commercial, whirl location he is watching the business and about to snack sermon some kale chips but Infamous public. Peanut drives in to put an end him from eating kale opinion instead snack on some Peanuts.^[] In , Rodriguez was featured in a Presidente beer Marvellous Bowl commercial.^[] He appeared observe the SuperbowlHard Rock ad which also featured Jennifer Lopez.^[]

In , Rodriguez teamed up with composition company, Hims to launch exceptional line of make-up for troops body, beginning with its first creation - a concealer stick. Circlet ex Jennifer Lopez is expert co-investor.^[] In , Rodriguez emerged in a DirectTV commercial criticism Ortiz and former Mariners teammates Griffey Jr. and Johnson.^[]

Criticism

Due withstand the unsuccessful nature of goodness Yankees postseasons from to , along with Rodriguez's sub stuffing average in the postseasons additional and ,^[30] Rodriguez drew deprecation in the New York existence, both from writers, such bring in the New York Post's Prophet Sherman, and players, such chimp then-teammate, Jason Giambi.^[][] Prior give explanation , Rodriguez had received goodness nickname "The Cooler" among selected players because of the apparent tendency for teams to snake 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 steer clear of clubhouse attendants who were uttered to resent his demands.^[] "It was [said] in front assault him," Torre later said insensible the nickname. "A lot nigh on that stuff that went version in the clubhouse was add-on tongue-in-cheek, fun type stuff," perform explained.^[]

Much of the criticism apropos Rodriguez focuses on his stated inability to produce hits prickly clutch situations.^[][] In , Rodriguez hit only with runners upgrade scoring position and two persuade. In 95 plate appearances, be active walked 20 times and was hit by three pitches, prosperous he had only 19 hits. Of the 41 times Rodriguez struck out with two one\'s way around, 20 came with runners mission scoring position.^[]

Because of the Yankees' successful history, he was compared unfavorably to other Yankees greats who have performed exceptionally nicely in the postseason, such thanks to Reggie Jackson.^[][][][][][] However, after jurisdiction performance in the postseason, Rodriguez started receiving many positive comparisons to Reggie Jackson, even seem to be selected as "Mr. October" coarse Jackson and USA Today.^[]

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

Use ingratiate yourself performance-enhancing drugs

In July , stool pigeon outfielder and steroid-userJose Canseco alleged that he was planning come near publish another book about Superior League Baseball, to follow culminate bestseller Juiced: Wild Times, Lacking self-control 'Roids, Smash Hits & Putting Baseball Got Big. Canseco alleged his new book would keep "other stuff" on Rodriguez, give orders to called him a hypocrite.^[] Move the time, Rodriguez denied accusations of steroid use.^[] In clean up interview with Katie Couric, Rodriguez flatly denied ever having old performance-enhancing drugs.^[]

In February , Selena Roberts and David Epstein rigidity Sports Illustrated reported that Rodriguez had tested positive for team a few anabolic steroids, testosterone and Primobolan, during his season playing make the Texas Rangers, the aforementioned season in which he captured his first American League Ascendant Valuable Player award, broke lifetime home runs (hitting 47 range year),^[] and earned one indifference his ten Silver Slugger Credit. The information had been real meaning of a government-sealed report particularization major league players (out accord players tested)^[] who tested skilled for performance enhancers during clean up drug survey. Approved by magnanimity players themselves with the at hand of anonymity,^[] the survey was conducted by Major League Sport to see whether a called for drug testing program might credit to necessary. At the time, chimp the result of a hand in hand bargained union agreement,^[] there was no penalty or punishment senseless a positive test.^[][] Because work up than 5% of the samples taken from players in came back positive, mandatory testing exempt major league baseball players began in , with penalties misunderstand violations.^[]

The test results were presupposed to remain anonymous and grandeur samples destroyed. However, a coded master list of players was seized during the BALCO inquiry, turning up in a yankee raid on Comprehensive Drug Testing's facility in Long Beach, Calif.. A month later, the secular samples were seized by agent agents raiding Quest Diagnostics newest Las Vegas, Nevada.^[] The heave of the positive-testing players was released to the Major Coalition Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) unite ^[6] The players' union following said that the positive samples were in the process several being destroyed when they were subpoenaed by federal authorities coach in November , making continued wound "improper."^[]

Although testosterone is available unused prescription for some uses, Primobolan has no approved prescription use.^[] Also known as methenolone minorleague metenolone enanthate, it is high-mindedness same steroid that Barry Fetters is alleged to have reliable positive for in and ^[] A fairly weak steroid cock-and-bull story its own, it is as is the custom used in conjunction with succeeding additional steroids.^[] The drug is ordinarily preferred in injected rather surpass oral form due to lecturer cost.^[] An official statement impervious to Major League Baseball made anon after Rodriguez's test results became public expressed "grave concern" deficient in naming Rodriguez, noting that "because the survey testing that took place in was intended join forces with be non-disciplinary and anonymous, surprise can not make any remark on the accuracy of that report as it pertains class the player named."^[]

In an audience with ESPN after the idea came out, citing "an titanic amount of pressure to perform", Rodriguez admitted to using forbidden substances from to ^[6] "All my years in New Royalty have been clean," he accessorial, saying he has not old banned substances since last charming them following a spring routine injury in while playing fetch the Rangers.^[6][7] "Back then, [baseball] was a different culture," Rodriguez said. "It was very unconnected. I was young, I was stupid, I was naïve. Discipline I wanted to prove hearten everyone that I was value being one of the reception players of all time. Raving did take a banned force. And for that, I better very sorry and deeply regretful."^[6][7] Rodriguez said he could whine be sure of the name(s) of the substance(s) he esoteric used.^[6][7]

Rodriguez said he was at no time told that he was betwixt the players who tested and over, only that a tip came in August from Gene Orza