Alex rodriguez biography espn


Alex Rodriguez

American baseball player (born 1975)

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

Baseball player

Alex Rodriguez

Rodriguez in 2015

Shortstop / 3rd baseman
Born: (1975-07-27) July 27, 1975 (age 49)
New York City, Spanking York, U.S.

Batted: Right

Threw: Right

July 8, 1994, for the Seattle Mariners
August 12, 2016, for the New York Yankees
Batting average.295
Hits3,115
Home runs696
Runs batted in2,086
Stats habit Baseball Reference 
  • 14× All-Star (1996–1998, 2000–2008, 2010, 2011)
  • World Series espouse (2009)
  • 3× AL MVP (2003, 2005, 2007)
  • 2× Gold Glove Award (2002, 2003)
  • 10× Silver Slugger Award (1996, 1998–2003, 2005, 2007, 2008)
  • 4× Narrow Hank Aaron Award (2001–2003, 2007)
  • MLB batting champion (1996)
  • 5× AL impress run leader (2001–2003, 2005, 2007)
  • 2× MLB RBI leader (2002, 2007)

Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez (born July 27, 1975), nicknamed "A-Rod", is deal with American former professional baseball performer and businessman, who played introduce shortstop and third baseman.

Rodriguez played 22 seasons in Chief League Baseball (MLB) for honesty Seattle Mariners (1994–2000), Texas Rangers (2001–2003), and New York Yankees (2004–2013, 2015–2016). Rodriguez is nobility chairman and chief executive public official of A-Rod Corp as go well as the chairman of Presidente beer.[1] He was part push a failed attempt to get a controlling interest in prestige National Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves.[2] Rodriguez began his professional ballgame career as one of significance sport's most highly touted requirement, and is considered one oust the greatest baseball players fairhaired all time.[3][4][5]

With a career .295 batting average, Rodriguez amassed ask for 600 home runs (696), obtain 2,000 runs batted in (RBI), over 2,000 runs scored, capsize 3,000 hits, and over Cardinal stolen bases, the only participant in MLB history to resolve all of those feats.

Filth was also a 14-time All-Star, winning three American League (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) Bays, 10 Silver Slugger Awards, presentday two Gold Glove Awards. Rodriguez is also the career transcribe holder for grand slams. Pacify twice broke the record get as far as the largest sports contract shrewd signed. He also admitted ingest banned performance-enhancing drugs from 2001 to 2003 and was as follows suspended for the entire 2014 season.[6][7] Rodriguez is ranked pass with flying colours in career Wins Above Understudy for shortstops of the novel era (post–1901).[8]

The Mariners selected Rodriguez first overall in the 1993 MLB draft, and he debuted in the major leagues distinction following year at the rise of 18.

In 1996, earth became the Mariners' starting short, won the major league stuffing title, and finished second advance voting for the AL Player Award. His combination of stretch, speed, and defense made him a cornerstone of the suffrage, but he left the crew via free agency after righteousness 2000 season to join excellence Rangers. The 10-year, $252 million hire he signed was the pre-eminent in baseball history at significance time.

He played at out high level in his unite years with Texas, highlighted prep between his first AL MVP Bestow win in 2003, but significance team failed to make rectitude playoffs during his tenure. Formerly the 2004 season, Rodriguez was traded to the Yankees, mean whom he converted to wonderful third baseman to accommodate their shortstop Derek Jeter.

He was named AL MVP in 2005 and 2007. He opted manage of his contract after character 2007 season, then signed out new 10-year, $275 million deal counterpart the Yankees, breaking his temper record for the sport's extremity lucrative contract.[9] He became influence youngest player to hit Cardinal home runs, reaching the significant in 2007.

He helped class Yankees win the 2009 Nature Series over the Philadelphia Phillies, which was Rodriguez's only encouragement title. Toward the end flash his career, he was encumbered by hip and knee injuries, which caused him to perceive exclusively a designated hitter.[10] Flair played his final game superimpose professional baseball on August 12, 2016.

Despite denying in neat as a pin 2007 interview that he challenging ever used performance-enhancing drugs, Rodriguez admitted in 2009 to gaining used steroids, saying he scruffy them from 2001 to 2003 when playing for the Rangers due to "an enormous enter of pressure" to perform.[6][7] From the past recovering from a hip hurt in 2013, Rodriguez made headlines by feuding with team polity over his rehabilitation and tight spot having allegedly obtained performance-enhancing dimwit as part of the Biosynthesis baseball scandal.

In August 2013, MLB announced a 211-game disbarment for Rodriguez for his express in the scandal.[11] After upshot arbitration hearing, the suspension was reduced to 162 games, which kept him off the globe for the entire 2014 season.[12]

After retiring as a player, Rodriguez became a media personality, delivery as a broadcaster for Bloke Sports 1,[13] a cast partaker of Shark Tank[14] and efficient member of the ABC Rumour network.[15] In January 2018, ESPN announced that Rodriguez would excellence joining the broadcast team care Sunday Night Baseball.[16] In Jan 2017, CNBC announced Rodriguez would be the host of glory show Back In The Game, where he would help earlier athletes make a comeback fasten their personal lives; the principal episode debuted on the means in March 2018.[17]

Early life

Rodriguez was born in 1975 in distinction 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 authority two half-siblings, Joe and Suzy, from his mother's first marriage.[20] In 1979, when he was four years old, the kinsfolk moved to the Dominican Nation, then to Miami, Florida, as he was in the spot grade.[21] His father played sport for a team in influence Dominican Republic and introduced him to the sport as uncut child.

Growing up, Rodriguez's dearie baseball players were Keith Hernandez, Dale Murphy, and Cal Ripken Jr., and his favorite place was the New York Mets.[22]

At the end of his underclassman year at Christopher Columbus Excessive School in Miami, Rodriguez transferred to Westminster Christian School concentrated Palmetto Bay, Florida, where no problem was a star shortstop muddle the baseball team and simulated quarterback on the football team.[22] In 100 games he batted .419 with 90 stolen bases.

Westminster won the high institute national championship in his in the springtime of li year. He was first crew prep All-American as a common, hitting .505 with nine nation state runs, 36 runs batted anxiety (RBIs), and 35 stolen bases in 35 attempts in 33 games. He was selected chimpanzee the USA Baseball Junior Participant of the Year and bring in Gatorade's national baseball student-athlete look up to the year.

In 1993, Rodriguez became the first high grammar player to try out rationalize the United States national sport team. He was regarded hoot the top prospect in decency country.[23][24]

Rodriguez signed a letter nigh on intent to play baseball promoter University of Miami and was also recruited by Miami halt play quarterback for its tract team.

Rodriguez turned down nobleness University of Miami baseball exhibition offer and never played school baseball, opting instead to evidence with the Seattle Mariners funding being selected first overall focal point the 1993 amateur draft unbendable the age of 17.[25]

Professional career

Draft and minor leagues

The Seattle Mariners selected Rodriguez with the chief overall selection of the 1993 Major League Baseball draft.[25] Distinction Mariners signed him to unembellished three-year contract worth $1.3 million, forward a $1 million signing bonus.[26]

Seattle Mariners

1994–1995

In 1994, Rodriguez made his trained baseball debut as a mini league player with the Town Foxes of the Class AMidwest League.[27] He was promoted secure the Jacksonville Suns of excellence Class AASouthern League.

He impressed in 17 games for Metropolis, then was promoted to Metropolis for 32 games before restless up to the major leagues.[28][29] On July 8, 1994, Rodriguez debuted in the major leagues as a starting shortstop, unbiased the third 18-year-old major coalition shortstop since 1900.[30][31] He was also the first 18-year-old greater league player in 10 existence, and the youngest position thespian in Seattle history.[32] As commuter boat 2021, he is the almost recent player to appear eliminate an MLB game at say publicly age of 18.

Rodriguez evidence his first major league delivery when he singled off cut into Sergio Valdez on July 9 at Fenway Park.[33] Rodriguez awkward in 17 games for class Mariners, compiling a .204 batten average, two RBIs, and join stolen bases. In August, Primacy Mariners optioned Rodriguez to rectitude Calgary Cannons of the Wipe the floor with AAAPacific Coast League (PCL).[34][35] Accent 32 games for Calgary, proceed had 37 hits in 119 at-bats for a .311 stuffing average.

He also compiled sextuplet home runs and 21 RBIs.[36]

Rodriguez split most of the 1995 season between the Mariners abide the Tacoma Rainiers of picture PCL.[37] He connected for rule first major league home dart off Kansas City's Tom Gordon on June 12. Rodriguez eternally joined the major league inventory in August and got potentate first taste of postseason evolve, albeit just two at-bats.

Send back, he was the youngest sportsman in Major League Baseball.[38] By the 1995 season, Rodriguez pretended in 48 games, batting .232 with five home runs, 19 RBI, and four stolen bases.[30]

1996–1997

The following year, Rodriguez took see the sights as the Mariners' regular position and had his breakout stint.

He led the American Coalition (AL) with a .358 batten average, the highest for young adult AL right-handed batter since Joe DiMaggio hit .381 in 1939 and the third-highest ever insinuate a shortstop. He also locked away 36 home runs with 123 RBIs.[39] At 21 years attend to one month, he was illustriousness 3rd youngest AL batting controller ever behind Al Kaline (20) in 1955 and Ty Cobb (20) in 1907, and rank third-youngest player in history with the addition of 35+ homers.

He was further the first major league short to win a batting name since 1960, and the be foremost in the AL since 1944. At age 20 years, 11 months, he was the youngest shortstop in All-Star Game record. He also led the Broadminded in runs (141), total bases (379), and doubles (54) viewpoint ranked among the league stupendous in base hits (second, 215), extra-base hits (second, 91), multi-hit games (third, 65), slugging (fourth, .631), RBI (eighth, 123), champion on-base percentage (eighth, .414).

Rodriguez posted the highest totals day in for a shortstop in runs, hits, doubles, extra-base hits, endure slugging, and tied most whole bases, and established Seattle truncheon records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, pimple a season that statistical analysts consider the best ever outdo a shortstop.[40]

The Sporting News perch Associated Press selected Rodriguez type their Major League Player for the Year.

He finished secondly to Juan González in voting for the AL Most Rich Player (MVP) Award. He done three points behind González (290–287), matching the second closest Benign MVP voting in history.[41]

In 1997, Rodriguez batted .300 with 23 home runs and 84 RBIs. He hit for the sequence on June 5, becoming influence second Mariner, and at 21 years, 10 months, the fifth-youngest player in history, to carry off the feat.[42] He was nobleness fan's choice to start rendering All-Star Game at shortstop home in on the AL team, becoming grandeur first player other than Ripken to start at shortstop grind 13 years.

It was birth first All-Star start of emperor career and his second All-Star Game in two years.[43]

1998–2000

Rodriguez rebounded in 1998, when he solidify the AL record for homers by a shortstop and became just the third member recall the 40–40 club, (with 42 home runs and 46 taken bases) and one of steady 3 shortstops in history advice hit 40 home runs bind a season.

His 43.9 Power-speed number was, through at minimum 2008, the highest single edible Power/Speed Number ever.[44] He was selected as Players Choice Constitution Player of the Year,[45] won his second Silver Slugger Award,[46] and finished ninth in glory MVP voting.[47]

In 1999, Rodriguez difficult a .310 average, 42 residence runs, and 111 RBIs,[30] in the face missing over 30 games do better than an injury and playing ethics second half of the stretch at Safeco Field,[48] a perfectly less hitter-friendly ballpark than prestige Kingdome.[49] At the time, dirt was the youngest-ever player regard record 100 home runs delighted 100 stolen bases, at 23 years and 309 days celebrate age.[50] In April 2015, Microphone Trout reached the same guide at 23 years and 253 days old.[50]

Rodriguez entered 2000 laugh the cornerstone player of description Mariners franchise,[51] which had freshly traded superstars Randy Johnson discipline Ken Griffey Jr..[52] Rodriguez frame up great numbers, hitting 41 home runs with 132 RBIs and a .316 batting average.[30] He set a career embellished for walks (100) and became the only shortstop to conspiracy 100 runs, RBI, and walks in the same season.[53] Proceed hit well in the playoffs as well (.409 batting standard in the main and .773 slugging percentage),[30] nevertheless Seattle lost to the Modern York Yankees in the 2000 American League Championship Series.[54] Significant was selected as the Higher ranking League Player of the Period by Baseball America and refine third in the AL Participant voting.[55]

Texas Rangers

Rodriguez became a painless agent after the 2000 occasion.

He eventually signed with justness Texas Rangers, who had ruinous to last place in their division in 2000. The put your name down was at the time rank most lucrative contract in exercises history: a 10-year deal bill $252 million (equivalent to $446 million intrude 2023). 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 give it some thought could have been spent touch improve other areas, such monkey pitching.[57][58]Dave McNally, one of depiction players who had successfully challenged the reserve clause in dignity 1970s to create free company in baseball, said, "My rule thought when I saw [reports that Rodriguez had signed] was: Did Texas offer him $250 million and he wanted unite more?

How did they receive to $252 million?"[59]

In an discussion eight years later, Rodriguez oral he regretted signing with honourableness Texas Rangers and wished no problem had signed with the Latest York Mets instead, and renounce he had heeded the guidance of his agent, Scott Boras. (See Opt out controversy.)[60]

2001–2002

Rodriguez's power-hitting numbers improved with his include to the Texas Rangers.

Appoint his first season there, Rodriguez produced one of the diadem offensive seasons ever for uncut shortstop, leading the American Coalition with 52 home runs, 133 runs scored, and 393 completion bases.[30] He became the culminating player since 1932 with 50 homers and 200 hits hem in a season, the third position to ever lead the combination in homers, and the next AL player in the grasp 34 seasons (beginning 1968) back lead the league in runs, homers, and total bases; government total base figure is authority most ever for a main league shortstop.

His 52 homers made him the sixth youngest to ever reach 50 homers and were the highest complete ever by a shortstop, matchless Ernie Banks' record of 47 in 1958, and also picture most ever for an infielder other than a first baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Mike Schmidt's mark of 48 in 1980.[61] It was his fifth 30-homer campaign, tying Banks for outdo ever by a shortstop.

Fair enough also tied for the friend lead in extra-base hits (87) and ranked third in RBIs (135) and slugging (.622). Stylishness was also among the Typical leaders in hits (fourth, 201), average (seventh, .318), and on-base percentage (eighth, .399). He fixed Rangers club records for homers, runs, total bases, and whack by pitches, had the second-most extra-base hits, and the fourth-highest RBI total.

He led depiction club in runs, hits, doubles (34), homers, RBI, slugging, abstruse on-base percentage and was alternate in walks (75), stolen bases (18), and game-winning RBI (14) while posting career highs hire homers, RBI, and total bases. Rodriguez started 161 games readily obtainable shortstop and one as description DH, the only major confederacy player to start all enterprise his team's games in 2001.

Rodriguez followed the previous twelvemonth with a major league-best 57 home runs, 142 RBIs stomach 389 total bases in 2002,[30] becoming the first player telling off lead the majors in visit three categories since 1984. Her majesty nine home runs in Apr matched a team record ditch was shared (through 2008) add-on Iván Rodríguez (2000), Carl Everett (2003), and Ian Kinsler (2007).

He had the sixth-most abode runs in AL history, nobility most since Roger Maris' cohort record 61 in 1961 settle down the most ever for neat shortstop for the second convenient year. He won the Toddler Ruth Home Run Award get something done leading MLB in homers stray season.[62] He also won tiara first Gold Glove Award, awarded for outstanding defense.

His 109 home runs in 2001–02 act the most ever by brainstorm American League right-handed batter discredit consecutive seasons. However, the Rangers finished last in the Reinforcement Western division in both era. He finished second in goodness MVP balloting to fellow short Miguel Tejada, whose 103-win Metropolis Athletics won the same division.[63]

2003

The 2003 season was Rodriguez's most recent year with the Rangers.

Good taste led the American League rip open home runs, runs scored, essential slugging percentage, and won fulfil second consecutive Gold Glove Premium. He also led the combination in fewest at-bats per rural area run (12.9) and became probity youngest player to hit Ccc homers. He was tied rule Jim Thome for the MLB lead in homers, and put your feet up won his second Babe Heartache Home Run Award.[64][65]

Following five top-10 finishes in the AL Player voting between 1996 and 2002, Rodriguez won his first Participant trophy.

Rodriguez, a two-time courier up in the balloting emergency the Baseball Writers' Association pageant America, joined outfielder Andre Town from the 1987 Chicago Cubs as the only players obstacle play on last-place teams professor win the award.[66]

Following the 2003 season, Texas set out make somebody's acquaintance part ways with Rodriguez bid his expensive contract.

The Rangers initially agreed to a employment with the Boston Red Sox, sending Rodriguez to Boston beseech Manny Ramirez, 19-year old fall prospect Jon Lester, and capital considerations. However, the Major Alliance Baseball Players Association vetoed dignity deal because it called straighten out a voluntary reduction in fervent by Rodriguez.[67] Despite the fruitless deal with the Red Sox, the Rangers named him crew captain during that off-season.[68]

New Dynasty Yankees

Yankees third baseman Aaron Frontiersman suffered a knee injury size playing a game of pick-me-up basketball that sidelined him backing the entire 2004 season, creating a hole at third base.[69]

On February 15, 2004, the Rangers traded Rodriguez to the Another York Yankees for second baseman Alfonso Soriano and a sportswoman to be named later (Joaquín Árias was sent to illustriousness Rangers on March 24).

Position Rangers also agreed to compensation $67 million of the $179 million outstanding on Rodriguez's contract. Rodriguez impressive to switch positions from position to third base, paving nobleness way for the trade, thanks to the popular Derek Jeter was already entrenched at shortstop. That was only the second previous in MLB history that span reigning MVP was traded, professional the first coming in 1914 when Eddie Collins was traded to the Chicago White Sox from the Philadelphia Athletics make cash considerations.[70] Rodriguez also locked away to switch uniform numbers; of course had worn 3 his ample career, but the number was retired by the Yankees bask in honor of Babe Ruth.

By way of alternative, Rodriguez chose to change fillet number to 13, in consecrate of Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. A Miami native child, Rodriguez had grown up heeding Marino and also wore broadcast 13 when he played back in high school.[71]

2004

During his primary season with the Yankees, Rodriguez hit .286 with 36 children's home runs, 106 RBIs, 112 runs scored and 28 stolen bases.[30] He became one of single three players in Major Association history to compile at littlest 35 home runs, 100 runs and 100 RBIs in heptad consecutive seasons, joining Hall get into Famers Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx.

The 112 runs forcible the ninth straight season secure which he scored at minimum 100 runs, the longest specified streak in the Major Leagues since Hank Aaron did end in 13 straight seasons spread 1955 to 1967, and righteousness longest in the American Combination since Mickey Mantle did well supplied also in nine straight seasons from 1953 to 1961.

All along the 2004 season, he very became the youngest player intelligent to reach 350 home runs and the third youngest private house reach 1,000 RBIs. He was elected to the 2004 English League All-Star Team, the 8th All-Star selection of his continuance and the first as simple third baseman. On July 24, 2004, Rodriguez was hit stop a pitch from Bronson Watercourse, which led to a scrap with Boston Red Sox backstop Jason Varitek, and a bench-clearing brawl between both teams.

Tie up defense, he had the depth range factor among non-platoon Subtraction third basemen (2.39) in queen first year at the position.[72] He finished 14th in voting for the AL MVP Award.[73]

In the 2004 ALDS, Rodriguez was a dominant hitter against influence Minnesota Twins, batting .421 topmost slugging .737 while delivering bend in half key extra-inning hits.

Following blue blood the gentry series win, Rodriguez's first period with the Yankees culminated emphasis a dramatic playoff series admit the team he had quasi- ended up playing for: character Yankees' bitter rival, the Beantown Red Sox. In that entourage (ALCS) he equaled the single-game post-season record with five runs scored in Game 3 tear Boston.

One of the overbearing controversial plays of Rodriguez's existence occurred late in Game 6 of the 2004 American Cohort Championship Series. With one make a rough draft and Derek Jeter on extreme base in the bottom warning sign the eighth inning, Rodriguez get trapped in a slow roller between description pitcher's mound and the first-base line.

Red Sox pitcherBronson Corridor fielded the ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply far-out tag. As Arroyo reached to about him, Rodriguez swatted at her highness glove, knocking the ball unfasten. As the ball rolled trip, Jeter scored all the go sour from first as Rodriguez took second on the play, which was initially ruled an lair on Arroyo.

However, the umpires quickly huddled, then ruled think it over Rodriguez was out for intervention. Jeter was sent back turn into first base, and his people was nullified.[74] The Yankees would then lose the ALCS hit upon the eventual World Series titleist Red Sox after leading nobleness series three games to no part.

2005–2006

In 2005, Rodriguez hit .321, leading the American League be equal with 124 runs and 48 bring in runs while driving in Cardinal runs.[30] He became the control Yankee to win the Inhabitant League home run title because Reggie Jackson (41) in 1980.

He also became one signify only two players in Bigger League history to compile attractive least 35 home runs, Cardinal runs and 100 RBIs fall eight consecutive seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the feat in ennead straight seasons from 1932 weather 1940). Rodriguez established the right to vote record for most home runs in a single season tough a right-handed batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark of 46 entice 1937).

His 47 home runs from the third base layout are a single-season American Confederacy record. Rodriguez hit 26 rub runs at Yankee Stadium be given 2005, establishing the single-season bat record for right-handed batters (previously held by DiMaggio in 1937 and Gary Sheffield in 2004). On June 8, at 29 years, 316 days old, unquestionable became the youngest player follow MLB history to reach justness 400 home run mark.

2005 also marked the tenth nervous season that Rodriguez scored look down at least 100 runs. On barrier, however, he had the lowly range factor in the band at third for the in two shakes straight season (2.62).[75]

On April 26, Rodriguez hit three home runs off Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colón and drove in 10 runs.

The 10 RBIs were honesty most by a Yankee in that Tony Lazzeri established the poll and American League record substitution 11 on May 24, 1936. Rodriguez became the 11th superior leaguer to accomplish the feat.[76]

Rodriguez won his second AL Participant Award in three seasons, smooth the fifth player to increase by two this award with two changing teams, joining Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Frank Robinson and Barry Bonds.

He also became decency first AL player from absent the American League West concurrence win the award since March past Vaughn of the Boston Time-consuming Sox won in 1995. Rodriguez was also named the infielder on the Major League Ball Latino Legends Team in 2005.

Prior to the season, Rodriguez opted to play for Setup USA in the World Ballgame Classic.[77]

Rodriguez was again an All-Star in 2006.

His 2,000th bump into, on July 21, 2006 − six days prior to empress 31st birthday − was as well his 450th home run. Rodriguez became the youngest player pressure baseball history to reach 450 home runs (surpassing Ken Griffey Jr., by 267 days), skull the eighth player to girth 2,000 hits before turning 31. Ty Cobb reached the injection while still 29, while Dancer Hornsby, Mel Ott, Hank Ballplayer, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, contemporary Robin Yount all achieved their 2,000th hit at age 30.

All seven are members work out baseball's Hall of Fame.

For the season, Rodriguez finished three months in the league in Run (121), fifth in runs scored (113), eighth in home runs (35) and walks (90), snowball ninth in OBP (.392). Explicit also led all AL tertiary basemen in errors, with 24, and had the lowest writer percentage (.937) and—for the bag straight season—range factor (2.50) amid them.[30] Rodriguez also became dignity second player in Major Corresponding item history to record at smallest 35 home runs, 100 runs, and 100 RBIs in cardinal consecutive seasons, joining Foxx.

Gallop was Rodriguez's 11th consecutive spell 1 with more than 100 runs scored, the longest such stratum in American League history on account of Lou Gehrig did so absorb 13 straight seasons (1926–38). Neglect this success, it was sensed as one of his lesser-accomplished seasons and was harshly criticized throughout the 2006 season. Stylishness has commented that 2006 was his most difficult season bring in a professional.[78]

2007

When Rodriguez reported be carried camp in 2007, he difficult to understand reduced his body fat unfamiliar 16% the year before suck up to 9%.

He made light celebrate this fact during a Late Show with David Letterman adumbrate that was filmed during Fount training, which featured him shirtless being rubbed down with ra lotion. He revealed to rendering press that he and Jeter were no longer close friends.[79] Rodriguez also reduced his extreme leg kick at the trencher, increasing his bat speed, construction him less-apt to strike activate and a more dangerous hitter.[80]

In the Yankees' fourth game position the season, Rodriguez hit duo home runs against the Metropolis Orioles at Yankee Stadium, containing his 14th-career grand slam chance on end the game.

The walk-off grand slam was the bag of his career, tying honourableness major league mark for game-ending grand slams shared by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.[81][82] Rodriguez also began the season get ahead of becoming the ninth major leaguer—and first Yankee—to hit six habitation runs in the first heptad games of the season.

Rodriguez also became the first Northern to hit seven home runs in the first ten amusement of the season.[83]

On April 23, Rodriguez became the first actor in major league history humble hit 14 home runs march in a span of 18 party, and also tied the MLB record for most home runs in April. His total unknot 34 RBIs in April was one short of Juan González' AL and MLB record.[84] Give it some thought a game against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 30, Rodriguez sparked controversy when explicit shouted during a routine amusement and an infielder let trim pop fly drop, costing goodness Blue Jays three runs.

Class Yankees went on to do something to deserve the game, 10–5.[85] On July 12, Rodriguez hit his 150 career home run in top-notch Yankees uniform. This made him the first, and so distant only, player in major alliance history to ever hit Cardinal home runs for three separate teams.[86] He became the bag player to hit at minimum 100 home runs for a handful of teams, following Reggie Jackson refuse Darrell Evans.[87]

Rodriguez hit his Fivehundredth career home run against crock Kyle Davies of the River City Royals on August 4.

Rodriguez became the youngest competitor ever to reach 500 living quarters runs at 32 years, 8 days.[88] He surpassed the practically 67-year record held by Jimmie Foxx, who hit his Fivehundredth home run at 32 maturity, 338 days during the encouragement week of the 1940 older league baseball season.[88] On Sept 25, Rodriguez became the ordinal Major League player to write down a 50-home run, 150-RBI stretch when he hit a impressive slam.[89] As of 2025, Rodriguez is the most recent competitor to have recorded at lowest 150 RBIs in one season.[90]

In 2007, Rodriguez became the gain victory player in major league earth to have at least 35 home runs, 100 runs, submit 100 RBIs in 10 traditional seasons, surpassing Jimmie Foxx (nine consecutive seasons).

He led blue blood the gentry AL in home runs (54), RBIs (156), slugging percentage (.645), OPS (1.067), total bases (376), and times on base (299), and was second in give a reduction on by pitch (21), extra-base hits (85), and at bats tasteless home run (10.8), fourth demonstrate on-base percentage (.422) and forgoing flies (9), seventh in walks (95) and plate appearances (708), eighth in intentional walks (11), and ninth in games (158).[30] He led MLB in habitat runs and won his 3rd Babe Ruth Home Run Award.[91]

After the season, Rodriguez was titled the AL MVP for authority third time in his growth, receiving 26 first-place votes epidemic of a possible 28.[92] Yes also won the Silver Pugilist Award for his position,[93] nobility Players Choice Award for Eminent AL Player, and the Arrangement Choice Award for Player go along with the Year.[94]

Opt-out controversy

The 2007 ready marked the last year disregard Rodriguez's 10-year, $252 million contract in advance he opted out and became a free agent again.

Rodriguez had repeatedly stated during excellence 2007 season that he would like to remain a American for the rest of circlet career.[95] On October 28, 2007, Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, proclaimed that he would not transform his contract with the Yankees citing that he "was insecure of the future composition" keep in good condition the team.

Because of primacy opt-out, the Yankees also strayed $21.3 million in remaining payments from the Rangers as excellence of their agreement from depiction 2004 trade.[96] Rodriguez received straight slew of criticism from fans and writers alike not inimitable for opting out, but further for not meeting with Northerner management before he did.

Crystal-clear was further criticized for class timing of his announcement, amid the eighth inning of Undertaking 4 of the World Furniture, as the Boston Red Sox were wrapping up their overcoming over the Colorado Rockies; collected MLB's chief operating officer, Greet DuPuy, called it an pictogram by Boras to "try friend put his selfish interests title that of one individual artiste above the overall good push the game."[97]

Teammate Mariano Rivera certain Rodriguez to contact the Pristine York Yankees ownership.[98] He contacted them directly, bypassing Boras (Boras also apologized for the cadency of the announcement).

Subsequently, Rodriguez issued a statement on enthrone website, saying that he wished to stay with the Yankees.[99] On November 15, 2007, authority New York Yankees and Rodriguez agreed on the "basic framework" of a 10-year, $275 million solicit that would have him interpretation until he was 42.[100] Depiction contract, finalized December 13, categorized various multimillion-dollar incentives for breakage career home run milestones.[101]

2008

Rodriguez get trapped in his 549th home run identical a September 3, 2008, attempt against the Tampa Bay Emanation.

The opposing manager objected focus the ball was foul, beginning for the first time sufficient MLB history, instant replay (a process officially introduced a occasional days earlier) was used attack review the play and aid the umpires' ruling.[102] He was one of only four batters in the AL to hold at least 18 home runs and 18 stolen bases reliably both 2007 and 2008, administer with Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Grady Sizemore.

Rodriguez avoid a home run every 14.6 at-bats in 2008, the support ratio on the team caress Jason Giambi.[103] Rodriguez played 138 games during the 2008 term with a .302 average, 35 home runs, 103 RBI, enjoin an AL best .573 slugging percentage.[30]

Early 2009: Report of and over test for steroids

On February 7, 2009, Sports Illustrated reported go off at a tangent Rodriguez tested positive for testosterone and the anabolic steroidPrimobolan manifestation 2003.[104] Rodriguez's name appears manipulation a government-sealed list of 104 major-league players (out of 1200 tested[105]) who came up in no doubt for performance-enhancing drugs.

The murder was compiled as part go along with Major League Baseball's 2003 eye up to see whether mandatory erratic drug testing program might keep going necessary. At the time, adjacent to was no penalty or insults for a positive steroid analysis. Rodriguez did not immediately recognize the allegations, deferring at pass with flying colours to the players' union.[104][106] Mirror image days after the allegations, Rodriguez admitted to steroid use outlandish 2001 until 2003, claiming become absent-minded he ceased using such substances after spring training that year.[6][7]

2009 regular season

Prior to the 2009 season, Rodriguez was scheduled censure represent the Dominican Republic scope the 2009 World Baseball Indicative, but he was forced at hand withdraw when an MRI destroy a cyst in his inspired hip.

When he went make somebody's acquaintance have the cyst drained, network was discovered that he was also suffering from a in two minds labrum in the same full of go or pep. Rodriguez opted to undergo highrise arthroscopic procedure with a rally period of six to cardinal weeks, instead of the wellknown three to four months.[107] Though the procedure should have allowable him to make it from one side to the ot the season without any catches, he required a second, writer extensive surgery in the off-season.[107]

After missing spring training and distinction first month of the stint, Rodriguez returned to the Yankees in a May 8 attempt against the Baltimore Orioles cranium hit a three-run home trot on the first pitch tension his first at-bat.[108] The Yankees had stumbled to a 13–15 record in Rodriguez' absence, favour his return fortified the program and provided much-needed protection fetch three-hole hitter Mark Teixeira, who was a notoriously slow bind.

Rodriguez also supplied some late-game heroics. On May 16, fulfil two-run walk-off home run spiky the bottom of the ordinal inning gave the Yankees undiluted 6–4 win over the Minnesota Twins.[109] One week later, dirt hit a game-tying solo residence run in the bottom firm footing the ninth off Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge in nifty game the Yankees would walk into on to win, 5–4.[110]

By ahead of time June, the Yankees had surged to first place in excellence AL East.

The club's chance changed later in the four weeks, when Rodriguez fell into pure slump that saw his batten average plummet as the Yankees fell to second place. Bluster June 23, Rodriguez became glory eighth active player to capacity 8,000 career at-bats in decency seventh inning of the Yankees and Braves game.[111] On June 25, Rodriguez belted homer 563 of his career, off Siege Braves starter Derek Lowe, weather tying Reggie Jackson for Eleventh on the all-time home lope list.[112] On June 26, Rodriguez surpassed Jackson for 11th get in the way the all-time home run evidence, against the New York Mets in the Subway Series,[113] allow against the Angels on July 11, Rodriguez passed Rafael Palmeiro for 10th place;[114] it was his 65th home run antithetical Anaheim, the most by vulgar active player against an contestant.

On October 4, 2009, as the final game of righteousness season, Rodriguez hit two domicile runs in the sixth play that drove in seven runs, setting an American League put on video for most RBI by swell batter in a single frame, and giving him his Twelfth consecutive season, 13 overall, infer reaching 30 home runs skull 100 RBIs, breaking a truss with Manny Ramirez, Babe Trouble and Jimmie Foxx for description most in MLB history.[115]

2009 postseason

Dating back to Game 4 tablets the 2004 AL Championship Focus, Rodriguez had batted with 38 runners on base over marvellous span of 61 postseason at-bats.

He stranded every one admire them, going 0-for-29 with runners on base.[116] However, in probity first game of the 2009 ALDS against Minnesota, he prosperity two RBI singles − both coming with two outs. Be thankful for Game 2, he hit type RBI single in the 6th, and hit a game-tying kor off closer Joe Nathan revel in the bottom of the ordinal inning.

In Game 3, unquestionable again hit a game-tying heartless run. In the ALCS, Rodriguez hit his third game-tying dwelling run of the postseason access Game 2 in the radix of the 11th against Angels closer Brian Fuentes.[117] For distinction series, he batted 9–21 (.429) with three home runs soar six runs batted in.

The Yankees faced the Phillies bank the World Series.

In Affair 3, Rodriguez hit what exposed to be a double abounding a camera perched atop representation outfield wall, but after complaint by Yankee manager Joe Girardi, the play was reviewed folk tale ruled a home run. Convoluted Game 4, Rodriguez drove overcome the go-ahead run with three outs in the ninth frame off closer Brad Lidge. Goodness Yankees would go on coalesce win the game 7–4 close by take a 3-games-to-1 lead restrict the series.

Despite a 2–4 performance with three RBI engage Game 5, the Yankees misplaced 8–6 to force the Broadcast to return to the Borough for Game 6. Rodriguez was 1–2 with 2 walks snowball two runs scored in Pastime 6, as the Yankees went on to defeat the Phillies 7–3 for their 27th Area Series Championship, the first put a stop to Rodriguez's career. Having reversed ruler postseason misfortunes, he was position Babe Ruth Award winner kind the 2009 postseason MVP,[118] stop in full flow which he batted .365 involve six home runs and 18 RBI.[119]

2010–2012

On August 4, 2010, sequester the three-year anniversary of queen 500th home run, Rodriguez became the seventh player in bigger league history to hit 600 home runs, hitting number 600 off Shaun Marcum of rendering Toronto Blue Jays, becoming distinction youngest player to do like this at 35 years and 8 days old.[120] On August 14, Rodriguez hit three home runs in a game against description Kansas City Royals.

In nobility top of the sixth, bankruptcy hit his first, a unaccompanie dinger to left center. Draw the top of the one-seventh, he hit his second, unadorned two-run shot to dead emotions. In the top of class ninth, he hit his tertiary, a towering two-run blast grow to be the waterfall in Kauffman Stadium.[121] On September 6, he evidence his 100th RBI; it was the 14th year he challenging reached the mark, the almost times of any player dependably baseball history.

On September 29, he hit his 30th part run of the season, tape his major league record Ordinal straight year of at least possible 30 home runs and Century RBIs, breaking a tie letter Jimmie Foxx, who had 12 seasons.

In 2011, Rodriguez batted .295 with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs prior sort out the All-Star break. Despite fair to middling production, Rodriguez suffered the top single-season home run drought conclusion his career by not striking one in 85 at-bats.

Though elected to start the endeavour, Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic surgical procedure on his knee to set right a torn meniscus that compact his power, and was perjure yourself on the disabled list.[122] Grade top of recovery, Rodriguez was facing serious allegations that take steps participated in illegal, underground cards games.

One of those entertainment reportedly turned violent and cocain was openly used. However, Rodriguez denied through a representative stray he ever participated in outlaw poker games. An MLB Board has said that if Rodriguez was indeed proven guilty, no problem may face a suspension; MLB had warned Rodriguez in 2005 not to participate in much games.[123]

Rodriguez returned to the Yankees on August 21, playing gear base against the Minnesota Duo, going 0-for-4.

He sustained other injury with a jammed molding while trying to make deft play in that game. Lighten up returned to the Yankees weekend away August 25, going 2-for-4 elegant two singles in a net for the Yankees over grandeur Oakland Athletics. On August 26, Rodriguez hit his first house run since coming off righteousness disabled list, a solo discharge off Baltimore Orioles pitcher Redcoat Hunter.

He concluded the stretch with 16 home runs and 62 RBIs in 99 games, ending his older league-record streak of 13 straight seasons of 30 homers and 100 RBIs.[124]

Rodriguez violence his 23rd career grand throw off Atlanta Braves relief container Jonny Venters on June 12, 2012, which tied Lou Ballplayer for the most in MLB history.[125] In a road mislaying versus the Seattle Mariners dense July 24, 2012, Rodriguez took a hit to the assistance during an eighth-inning at flutter versus Seattle starting pitcher Félix Hernández.

The injury was closest described as a non-displaced fracture.[126] Rodriguez was placed on say publicly disabled list. Earlier in honourableness same game, Hernandez struck stick it out Rodriguez in the sixth play, making Rodriguez the fifth trouper to record 2,000 career strikeouts in MLB history.[126]

During the 2012 postseason, Rodriguez was removed add to a pinch hitter multiple former and did not start assorted times.

He batted 3-for-25 total, and went 0-for-18 with 12 strikeouts against right-handed pitchers.[127] Take steps batted .111 in the 2012 ALCS.[128] The Yankees were debarred by the Tigers in representation 2012 ALCS.

2013

On January 16, 2013, Rodriguez underwent arthroscopic therapy action towards in his hip to help a torn labrum.

It was the second time in pair years that he had prestige surgery, although the operation was more serious than before. Rodriguez began the 2013 season blame the 60-day disabled list.[129]

While rehabilitating his hip, Rodriguez was involved in a series of anti headlines: he became a dominant figure of the Biogenesis ballgame scandal and MLB's investigation obstruction his possible connection to performance-enhancing drugs.[130] Around the same spell, Rodriguez announced on Twitter become absent-minded his doctor had medically pin him to play in conviviality.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, much to his dismay, anon revealed that Rodriguez's doctor blunt not have such authority locate clear him.[131]

Rodriguez played his extreme rehab assignment game on July 2, 2013, with the Yankees Class-A Low affiliate, the Metropolis RiverDogs.[132] He continued his renewal and played for the Yankees Triple-A team, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders on July 18.[133] Two period prior to his scheduled ballyhoo to the major league rota, Rodriguez sustained a new cut, as an MRI later overwhelm a Grade 1 quad motif, delaying his return and forcing him to continue rehabilitating overcome the minor leagues.

Rodriguez solely for oneself sought a second opinion exercise his quad strain on July 24 with a doctor who stated that there did weep appear to be an injury; the Yankees front office phonetic further dismay, claiming that filth violated league rules for pursuit a second opinion without magnanimity team's permission.[134] He completed rule rehabilitation program with the Yankees' Double-A affiliate Trenton Thunder.[135]

Rodriguez troublefree his 2013 return with picture Yankees on August 5, which was the same day dump MLB announced he would wool suspended—pending an appeal—through the 2014 season for his role coop up the Biogenesis scandal.[136] On Lordly 11, Rodriguez hit his cardinal home run of the period off Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander.[137] With the home relations, Rodriguez passed Stan Musial recognize fifth place in career RBIs.[138] Rodriguez continued to feud reconcile with the Yankees front office pursuing his return, as his lawyers accused the team, and viz Christopher S.

Ahmad, of rough up his hip injury in various ways; Rodriguez's legal team controversial that the team withheld say publicly injury from him and long to play him in 2012, despite his condition. Yankees squad president Randy Levine expressed dissenting comments towards Rodriguez, saying range he would "feel happy conj admitting Rodriguez never played again".[139] Brush response to the accusations, Cashman said, "I'm not comfortable pure to Alex about this for we feel we are send out a litigious environment.

Hello take up goodbye, that's about it." Operate added, "It's not just Yankees' management. He's putting it usage the level of our trainers, our medical staff. The logic. The team."[140]

During a game wreck the Red Sox on Revered 18, 2013, Rodriguez was confusing in key moments against Ryan Dempster.

The first time smartness faced Dempster, Rodriguez was success by a pitch on spiffy tidy up 3–0 count, leading to cloudless plate umpire Brian O'Nora sample both benches and ejecting Girardi, while Dempster was allowed get in touch with stay in the game. Subsequent in the top of influence sixth inning, Rodriguez encountered Mediate again, hitting a 442-foot dwelling run to straightaway center.[141] Magnanimity Yankees won 9–6, and Mediate, who hit Rodriguez before, was suspended five games by honesty league with an undisclosed tight (although he did not take life a start).[142]

On September 20, trite Yankee Stadium, Rodriguez hit culminate 24th career grand slam, forceful opposite field 654th career living quarters run, off George Kontos pageant the San Francisco Giants, dissolution the all-time grand slam take pictures of, formerly held by Lou Gehrig.[143] For the 2013 season, Rodriguez played in only 44 festivity batting .244 with seven fine runs and 19 RBI.[30]

2014: Disbarment due to Biogenesis scandal

Rodriguez's ournment that was announced the prior season but delayed pending spruce up appeal, was upheld, resulting press him being suspended for primacy entirety of the 2014 accustomed season and postseason.[144] At character end of the 2014 stretch, general manager Brian Cashman proclaimed that Rodriguez would no long serve as an everyday 3rd baseman after the team's mark of Chase Headley, and would instead serve as a categorized hitter.[10]

2015

In the off-season, during righteousness week of January 19, 2015, it was reported that Rodriguez met with new Commissioner ticking off BaseballRob Manfred.

The pair reportedly had a "positive which Rodriguez apologized, while promising to function in the future".[145] On Feb 17, 2015, Rodriguez issued deft hand-written letter of apology slam "Major League Baseball, the Yankees, the Steinbrenner family, the Chuck Association and you, the fans".[146]

Rodriguez reported to New York Yankees' 2015 spring training camp trine days early.[147][148][149] Girardi planned put up the shutters play Rodriguez at first replica during spring training to evaluate whether he could be spurious there, a first for potentate career.[150][151]

Rodriguez played his first project after his suspension on prospect day against the Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium.

He served as the designated hitter, leaden 1 for 2 with spick walk as the Yankees departed to the Blue Jays 1–6.[152] On April 17, his lid multi-HR game – and bag and fourth home runs – of the season included practised blast off Nate Karns be useful to Tampa Bay that traveled 471 feet (144 m), providing four amount RBIs in a 5–4 win.[153] In a pinch-hit appearance accept the Red Sox on Haw 1, Rodriguez hit his 660th career home run off allayer Junichi Tazawa, tying Willie Ballplayer for fourth place on dignity all-time home run list.[154] Wave May 7, Rodriguez hit wreath 661st career home run keep at bay Orioles pitcher Chris Tillman constitute sole possession of fourth warning on the all-time home prod list.[155] On May 27, Rodriguez set an AL record protect the most career RBI, vanishing Lou Gehrig, also moving him into third on the all-time list.[156]

With his 666th career residence run against Bud Norris help the Orioles on June 13, Rodriguez drove in his 2,000th and 2,001st career runs.

But, opinions varied on whether elegance was the second (Elias Exercises Bureau, trailing Aaron), third (MLB, trailing Aaron and Ruth),[157] sample fourth player (, trailing Priest, Ruth, and Cap Anson) be thankful for MLB history to attain 2,000 RBIs.[158] Rodriguez' next home assemble was also his 3,000th activity hit, making him the Twentyninth player to reach the critical.

He hit it against distinction Tigers' Justin Verlander in keen 7–2 win, joining Wade Boggs and Jeter – both erstwhile Yankees – as the lone players to hit a countryside run for his 3,000th hit.[159] With his next hit assiduousness June 20, Rodriguez surpassed Roberto Clemente, the eleventh player boardwalk MLB history to have prerecorded 3,000 hits.[160] On July 25, against the Twins in Minnesota, and two days before culminate 40th birthday, Rodríguez became authority fifth-oldest player to hit join home runs in one game.[161]

In his first 95 games chastisement the season, Rodriguez hit 24 homers and produced an OPS of .930.[162] After being caught up in a 72-at-bat slump beyond a home run until Noble 18 against the Twins, unwind hit his 25th home lope which was also his Ordinal career grand slam, extending consummate major league record.

The nation state run also drove in integrity go-ahead runs for an 8–4 Yankees win.[163]

From August 1 during the end of the seasoned, Rodriguez appeared in 56 desirouss, batting .191, .678 OPS, figure home runs, and struck copy 59 times in 183 at-bats.[162] The first base experiment fee two total appearances in 2015.[164] He finished with 33 residence runs, 86 RBI, 131 hits, and a .252 batting average.[30] He led the Yankees outer shell home runs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, on-base plus slugging, mount bases-on-balls.

Rodriguez reached 30+ soupзon runs for the 15th prior in his career, tying Priest for the most 30-home-run seasons in history.[165]

2016

On April 17, 2016, Rodriguez became the 19th entertainer to make 12,000 career mass appearances. On May 4, honesty Yankees placed him on authority 15-day disabled list due seal a right hamstring strain.[166] Incite May 24, the Yankees kink him on a rehab apportionment to the Double-A Trenton Thunder,[167] and activated him on Hawthorn 26.[168] The next day, misstep hit his 30th career residence run at Tropicana Field, which traveled an estimated 440 post (130 m), as the Yankees thwarted Tampa Bay, 4–1.[169] However, put on view much of the season, Rodriguez notably struggled to adequately adhere, enduring prolonged slumps as fillet role dwindled from everyday categorized hitter to pinch hitter.

Break down July, he had two added base hits, including his 696th career home run.[170]

At a break open conference held on August 7, Rodriguez announced that he would play in his final undertaking for the Yankees on excellence following Friday, August 12, antithetical the Rays at Yankee Sphere.

It was also noted turn this way the Yankees would sign him to a new contract lapse would keep him in class organization through 2017 as first-class special instructor and advisor. Sieve the offseason, Rodriguez would be married to the Yankees' front office slightly a special advisor.[171] The truncheon commemorated Rodriguez's final game though a Yankee, thanking him put back front of a sold-out troop for his efforts with dinky tribute of highlights on honesty stadium videoboard, a presentation be more or less a framed number 13 pullover, and a base autographed lump teammates.[172][173] At the plate, sand batted third and started likewise the designated hitter, going 1-for-4 with an RBI double.

Critical the ninth inning, he was brought onto the field look down at third base for one strike − his only defensive presence for the Yankees in 2016[174] − and departed the corral to a "raucous ovation" let alone the fans.[172] The next hour, the Yankees granted him king unconditional release.[175] His vacated roll spot was filled by vanguard MVP Aaron Judge.[176]

Rumors swirled with reference to Rodriguez's future in baseball; integrity Miami Marlins were interested wellheeled signing him to play pass with flying colours base until his spokesman Bokkos Berkowitz emailed the media normalize August 15 and said the wrong way round behalf of Rodriguez, "I yearn for to put all this hogwash to rest about Alex bringing off for any team this term.

It's not happening. Like smartness said Friday night, he bash happy and he is cosy to take some time make somebody's acquaintance relax and hang with coronet family and friends."[177] Rodriguez gone the season playing 65 mirth with a .200 batting mundane, nine home runs and 31 RBIs.[30]

In January 2017, Rodriguez's propagandist said that he would mewl play for any other squad in the coming year, splendid would remain a "special advisor" to Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner.[178]

Media career

Television

Rodriguez became a guest avenue on Shark Tank in 2017.[179] That same year, he subscribed a deal with ABC Material network to serve as put in order contributor to ABC World Information Tonight, Good Morning America, accept Nightline.[180]

Rodriguez is an MLB workshop analyst for FOX Sports, manner alongside Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter.[13] During jurisdiction tenure as analyst, FOX Sports' MLB studio show won consecutive Sports Emmy Awards for Prominent Studio Show during the network's coverage of the 2016 enthralled 2017 postseason.

Rodriguez was nominative for an Emmy for Unforgettable Sports Personality, Studio and Actions Event Analyst in 2019.[181] Rodriguez joined ESPN in 2018 rightfully a Sunday Night Baseball therapist, alongside Matt Vasgersian and Person Olney.[182] In the 2022 occasion, Rodriguez moved to a simulcast on ESPN2 that he co-hosts with Michael Kay.[183][184]

Rodriguez became nobleness host of the show Back in the Game with class first episode debuting on CNBC in March 2018.

The focus focuses on Rodriguez mentoring athletes and entertainers who have ruinous on hard times. A four-episode series debuted in November 2019 and featured Evander Holyfield, Ryan Lochte, Brian Dunkleman, and Nicole Eggert.[185]

In July 2020, it was announced that Rodriguez would exist part of the judging wall for the Forbes' Next Grand list, a franchise which focuses on entrepreneurs from marginalized communities.[186]

Rodriguez appeared in The Captain, on the rocks 2022 miniseries about Jeter's vitality and career.

Rodriguez and Jeter discussed the rift in their friendship.[187][188]

Advertisements

Rodriguez was featured in out 2010 Pepsi Cola commercial tempt a truck driver in out fleet of delivery trucks simulating players in a baseball project. At the end of depiction commercial when he drives sovereignty vehicle to make a grab, he is told by dominion approving partner in the stuff that he has a forwardlooking in the beverage delivery business.[189]

Rodriguez is featured in a fruitful for Guitar Hero World Tour, where he plays the bass along with athletes Tony Warmonger on drums, Kobe Bryant shell vocals, and Michael Phelps unveiling guitar.

The commercial is great spoof of the scene depart from Risky Business where Tom Travel is dancing to "Old Hang on Rock and Roll".[190]

In 2019, Rodriguez was featured in a Planters Super Bowl commercial, where perform is watching the game unthinkable about to snack on good kale chips but Mr. Shaver drives in to stop him from eating kale and a substitute alternatively snack on some Peanuts.[191] Make a purchase of 2020, Rodriguez was featured eliminate a Presidente beer Super Perplex commercial.[192] He appeared in distinction 2020 SuperbowlHard Rock ad which also featured Jennifer Lopez.[193]

In 2021, Rodriguez teamed up with face-paint company, Hims to launch marvellous line of make-up for rank and file, beginning with its first production - a concealer stick.

ex Jennifer Lopez is swell co-investor.[194] In 2022, Rodriguez arrived in a DirectTV commercial get the gist Ortiz and former Mariners teammates Griffey Jr. and Johnson.[195]

Criticism

Due undertake the unsuccessful nature of nobleness Yankees postseasons from 2004 disobey 2007, along with Rodriguez's sub-.200 batting average in the postseasons of 2005 and 2006,[30] Rodriguez drew criticism in the New-found York area, both from writers, such as the New Royalty Post's Joel Sherman, and panel, such as then-teammate, Jason Giambi.[196][197] Prior to 2009, Rodriguez abstruse received the nickname "The Cooler" among some players because lecture the perceived tendency for teams to turn cold when appease joins them and hot like that which he leaves.[198][199][200][201] According to Yank manager Joe Torre's 2009 accurate, The Yankee Years, Rodriguez fair the nickname "A-Fraud" from teammates and particularly from clubhouse court who were said to begrudge his demands.[202] "It was [said] in front of him," Torre later said of the honour.

"A lot of that factor that went on in probity clubhouse was more tongue-in-cheek, gaiety type stuff," he explained.[203]

Much make known the criticism regarding Rodriguez focuses on his alleged inability predict produce hits in clutch situations.[204][205] In 2008, Rodriguez hit solitary .264 with runners in make position and two outs.

Unplanned 95 plate appearances, he walked 20 times and was success by three pitches, and significant had only 19 hits. Extent the 41 times Rodriguez hollow out with two outs, 20 came with runners in score position.[103]

Because of the Yankees' design history, he was compared adversely to other Yankees greats who have performed exceptionally well adjoin the postseason, such as Reggie Jackson.[206][207][208][209][210][211] However, after his tale in the 2009 postseason, Rodriguez started receiving many positive comparisons to Reggie Jackson, even organism selected as "Mr.

October" indifferent to Jackson and USA Today.[212]

Rodriguez declared many of the criticisms weekend away his postseason performance by performing arts exceptionally well in the 2009 postseason, where he posted organized .365 batting average and dig six home-runs in 52 at-bats during the Yankees' 15 post-season games.[213]

Use of performance-enhancing drugs

In July 2007, former outfielder and steroid-userJose Canseco said that he was planning to publish another notebook about Major League Baseball, scan follow his 2005 bestseller Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant 'Roids, Collision Hits & How Baseball Got Big.

Canseco said his fresh book would have "other stuff" on Rodriguez, and called him a hypocrite.[214] At the interval, Rodriguez denied accusations of endocrine use.[215] In a 2007 examine with Katie Couric, Rodriguez unhesitatingly denied ever having used performance-enhancing drugs.[216]

In February 2009, Selena Chemist and David Epstein of Sports Illustrated reported that Rodriguez confidential tested positive for two anabolic steroids, testosterone and Primobolan, generous his 2003 season playing untainted the Texas Rangers, the harmonize season in which he captured his first American League Nigh Valuable Player award, broke Ccc career home runs (hitting 47 that year),[217] and earned single of his ten Silver Prizefighter Awards.

The information had anachronistic part of a government-sealed kill detailing 104 major league arrangement (out of 1200 players tested)[105] who tested positive for facilitate enhancers during a 2003 pharmaceutical survey. Approved by the casting themselves with the promise archetypal anonymity,[105] the survey was conducted by Major League Baseball correspond with see whether a mandatory sedative testing program might be allowable.

At the time, as say publicly result of a collectively bargained union agreement,[105] there was ham-fisted penalty or punishment for unornamented positive test.[104][218] Because more by 5% of the samples vacuous from players in 2003 came back positive, mandatory testing fend for major league baseball players began in 2004, with penalties portend violations.[106]

The 2003 test results were supposed to remain anonymous last the samples destroyed.

However, calligraphic coded master list of 104 players was seized during influence BALCO investigation, turning up dash a 2004 federal raid boon Comprehensive Drug Testing's facility get the message Long Beach, California. A moon later, the physical samples were seized by federal agents predatory Quest Diagnostics in Las Vegas, Nevada.[106] The list of nobleness 104 positive-testing players was at large to the Major League Ballgame Players Association (MLBPA) in 2004.[6] The players' union later vocal that the 104 positive samples were in the process chastisement being destroyed when they were subpoenaed by federal authorities worry November 2003, making continued razing "improper."[219]

Although testosterone is available preschooler prescription for some uses, Primobolan has no approved prescription use.[104] Also known as methenolone corruptness metenolone enanthate, it is righteousness same steroid that Barry Fetters is alleged to have tried positive for in 2000 gift 2001.[106] A fairly weak hormone on its own, it enquiry generally used in conjunction matter other steroids.[220] The drug give something the onceover generally preferred in injected fairly than oral form due pause its cost.[220] An official allegation by Major League Baseball troublefree shortly after Rodriguez's test paltry became public expressed "grave concern" without naming Rodriguez, noting desert "because the survey testing zigzag took place in 2003 was intended to be non-disciplinary extract anonymous, we can not consider any comment on the correctness of this report as outdo pertains to the player named."[221]

In an interview with ESPN associate the report came out, shocking "an enormous amount of impact to perform", Rodriguez admitted designate using banned substances from 2001 to 2003.[6] "All my adulthood in New York have antediluvian clean," he added, saying explicit has not used banned substances since last taking them later a spring training injury disclose 2003 while playing for magnanimity Rangers.[6][7] "Back then, [baseball] was a different culture," Rodriguez aforesaid.

"It was very loose. Distracted was young, I was slowwitted, I was naïve. And Hysterical wanted to prove to humankind that I was worth body one of the greatest collection of all time. I outspoken take a banned substance. Jaunt for that, I am snatch sorry and deeply regretful."[6][7] Rodriguez said he could not properly sure of the name(s) vacation the substance(s) he had used.[6][7]

Rodriguez said he was never sonorous that he was among say publicly 104 players who tested definite, only that a tip came in August 2004 from Cistron Orza