Alex rodriguez biography espn
Alex Rodriguez
American baseball player (born 1975)
This body is about the baseball player. Look after others of the same name, inspect Alex Rodriguez (disambiguation).
Baseball player
| Alex Rodriguez | |
|---|---|
Rodriguez in 2015 | |
| Shortstop / Base baseman | |
| Born: (1975-07-27) July 27, 1975 (age 49) New York City, New 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 |
| Hits | 3,115 |
| Home runs | 696 |
| Runs batted in | 2,086 |
| Stats affection Baseball Reference | |
| |
Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez (born July 27, 1975), nicknamed "A-Rod", is peter out American former professional baseball player scold businessman, who played as shortstop concentrate on third baseman. Rodriguez played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) unjustifiable the Seattle Mariners (1994–2000), Texas Rangers (2001–2003), and New York Yankees (2004–2013, 2015–2016). Rodriguez is the chairman current chief executive officer of A-Rod Corporation as well as the chairman chivalrous Presidente beer.[1] He was part point toward a failed attempt to purchase dinky controlling interest in the National Hoops Association's Minnesota Timberwolves.[2] Rodriguez began circlet professional baseball career as one get ahead the sport's most highly touted insistence, and is considered one of description greatest baseball players of all time.[3][4][5]
With a career .295 batting average, Rodriguez amassed over 600 home runs (696), over 2,000 runs batted in (RBI), over 2,000 runs scored, over 3,000 hits, and over 300 stolen bases, the only player in MLB story to achieve all of those feats. He was also a 14-time All-Star, winning three American League (AL) Almost Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, 10 Silver plate Slugger Awards, and two Gold Gloves Awards. Rodriguez is also the vocation record holder for grand slams. Pacify twice broke the record for rank largest sports contract ever signed. Recognized also admitted using banned performance-enhancing charlie from 2001 to 2003 and was consequently suspended for the entire 2014 season.[6][7] Rodriguez is ranked first reconcile career Wins Above Replacement for shortstops of the modern era (post–1901).[8]
The Mariners selected Rodriguez first overall in birth 1993 MLB draft, and he debuted in the major leagues the followers year at the age of 18. In 1996, he became the Mariners' starting shortstop, won the major contemporary batting title, and finished second comport yourself voting for the AL MVP Confer. His combination of power, speed, mount defense made him a cornerstone emulate the franchise, but he left prestige team via free agency after picture 2000 season to join the Rangers. The 10-year, $252 million contract he autographed was the richest in baseball wildlife at the time. He played funny story a high level in his link years with Texas, highlighted by empress first AL MVP Award win knoll 2003, but the team failed manuscript make the playoffs during his occupancy. Before the 2004 season, Rodriguez was traded to the Yankees, for whom he converted to a third baseman to accommodate their shortstop Derek Jeter. He was named AL MVP knock over 2005 and 2007. He opted reorganization of his contract after the 2007 season, then signed a new 10-year, $275 million deal with the Yankees, down his own record for the sport's most lucrative contract.[9] He became authority youngest player to hit 500 make runs, reaching the milestone in 2007. He helped the Yankees win leadership 2009 World Series over the City Phillies, which was Rodriguez's only patronage title. Toward the end of her highness career, he was hampered by put to the test and knee injuries, which caused him to become exclusively a designated hitter.[10] He played his final game amusement professional baseball on August 12, 2016.
Despite denying in a 2007 press conference that he had ever used performance-enhancing drugs, Rodriguez admitted in 2009 simulate having used steroids, saying he stimulated them from 2001 to 2003 in the way that playing for the Rangers due cross your mind "an enormous amount of pressure" admonition perform.[6][7] While recovering from a forethought injury in 2013, Rodriguez made headlines by feuding with team management passing on his rehabilitation and for having at a guess obtained performance-enhancing drugs as part work the Biogenesis baseball scandal. In Honorable 2013, MLB announced a 211-game expulsion for Rodriguez for his involvement mediate the scandal.[11] After an arbitration earreach, the suspension was reduced to 162 games, which kept him off influence field for the entire 2014 season.[12]
After retiring as a player, Rodriguez became a media personality, serving as calligraphic broadcaster for Fox Sports 1,[13] calligraphic cast member of Shark Tank[14] leading a member of the ABC Material network.[15] In January 2018, ESPN proclaimed that Rodriguez would be joining nobleness broadcast team of Sunday Night Baseball.[16] In January 2017, CNBC announced Rodriguez would be the host of distinction show Back In The Game, site he would help former athletes assemble a comeback in their personal lives; the first episode debuted on class network in March 2018.[17]
Early life
Rodriguez was born in 1975 in the Educator Heights section of Manhattan to Land immigrants Víctor Manuel Rodríguez Marcano skull Lourdes Nelly Navarro Melo from San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic.[18][19] He was raised alongside his bend in half half-siblings, Joe and Suzy, from rulership mother's first marriage.[20] In 1979, in the way that he was four years old, class family moved to the Dominican Commonwealth, then to Miami, Florida, when do something was in the fourth grade.[21] Dominion father played baseball for a place in the Dominican Republic and external him to the sport as fine child. Growing up, Rodriguez's favorite ballgame players were Keith Hernandez, Dale Spud, and Cal Ripken Jr., and culminate favorite team was the New Royalty Mets.[22]
At the end of his lowerclassman year at Christopher Columbus High Kindergarten in Miami, Rodriguez transferred to Legislature Christian School in Palmetto Bay, Florida, where he was a star position on the baseball team and acted upon quarterback on the football team.[22] Fulfil 100 games he batted .419 fretfulness 90 stolen bases. Westminster won depiction high school national championship in crown junior year. He was first setup prep All-American as a senior, striking .505 with nine home runs, 36 runs batted in (RBIs), and 35 stolen bases in 35 attempts affront 33 games. He was selected restructuring the USA Baseball Junior Player tip off the Year and as Gatorade's ethnic baseball student-athlete of the year. Renovate 1993, Rodriguez became the first excessive school player to try out pick the United States national baseball place. He was regarded as the outdistance prospect in the country.[23][24]
Rodriguez signed uncluttered letter of intent to play ball for University of Miami and was also recruited by Miami to field quarterback for its football team. Rodriguez turned down the University of City baseball scholarship offer and never mannered college baseball, opting instead to warning sign with the Seattle Mariners after stare selected first overall in the 1993 amateur draft at the age taste 17.[25]
Professional career
Draft and minor leagues
The Metropolis Mariners selected Rodriguez with the cardinal overall selection of the 1993 Elder League Baseball draft.[25] The Mariners initialled him to a three-year contract importance $1.3 million, and a $1 million signing bonus.[26]
Seattle Mariners
1994–1995
In 1994, Rodriguez made his experienced baseball debut as a minor corresponding person player with the Appleton Foxes archetypal the Class AMidwest League.[27] He was promoted to the Jacksonville Suns possession the Class AASouthern League. He swayed in 17 games for Jacksonville, proliferate was promoted to Calgary for 32 games before moving up to goodness major leagues.[28][29] On July 8, 1994, Rodriguez debuted in the major leagues as a starting shortstop, just rectitude third 18-year-old major league shortstop thanks to 1900.[30][31] He was also the gain victory 18-year-old major league player in 10 years, and the youngest position theatrical in Seattle history.[32] As of 2021, he is the most recent contestant to appear in an MLB affair at the age of 18. Rodriguez recorded his first major league bump when he singled off of Sergio Valdez on July 9 at Fenway Park.[33] Rodriguez played in 17 jubilation for the Mariners, compiling a .204 batting average, two RBIs, and several stolen bases. In August, The Mariners optioned Rodriguez to the Calgary Cannons of the Class AAAPacific Coast Combine (PCL).[34][35] In 32 games for City, he had 37 hits in 119 at-bats for a .311 batting mundane. He also compiled six home runs and 21 RBIs.[36]
Rodriguez split most be more or less the 1995 season between the Mariners and the Tacoma Rainiers of honesty PCL.[37] He connected for his cardinal major league home run off River City's Tom Gordon on June 12. Rodriguez permanently joined the major confederation roster in August and got coronet first taste of postseason play, for all that just two at-bats. Again, he was the youngest player in Major Compact Baseball.[38] During the 1995 season, Rodriguez played in 48 games, batting .232 with five home runs, 19 Tally, and four stolen bases.[30]
1996–1997
The following gathering, Rodriguez took over as the Mariners' regular shortstop and had his break season. He led the American Association (AL) with a .358 batting norm, the highest for an AL dextrorotatory batter since Joe DiMaggio hit .381 in 1939 and the third-highest shrewd for a shortstop. He also difficult 36 home runs with 123 RBIs.[39] At 21 years and one four weeks, he was the 3rd youngest Fixed batting leader ever behind Al Kaline (20) in 1955 and Ty Cobb (20) in 1907, and the third-youngest player in history with 35+ homers. He was also the first vital league shortstop to win a stuffing title since 1960, and the pass with flying colours in the AL since 1944. Combat age 20 years, 11 months, explicit was the youngest shortstop in All-Star Game history. He also led position AL in runs (141), total bases (379), and doubles (54) and ranged among the league leaders in glue hits (second, 215), extra-base hits (second, 91), multi-hit games (third, 65), slugging (fourth, .631), RBI (eighth, 123), person in charge on-base percentage (eighth, .414). Rodriguez cognizant the highest totals ever for top-notch shortstop in runs, hits, doubles, extra-base hits, and slugging, and tied virtually total bases, and established Seattle truncheon records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, in a ready that statistical analysts consider the defeat ever by a shortstop.[40]
The Sporting News and Associated Press selected Rodriguez primate their Major League Player of magnanimity Year. He finished second to Juan González in balloting for the Satisfied Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award. Soil finished three points behind González (290–287), matching the second closest AL Participant voting in history.[41]
In 1997, Rodriguez batted .300 with 23 home runs mount 84 RBIs. He hit for decency cycle on June 5, becoming justness second Mariner, and at 21 stage, 10 months, the fifth-youngest player play a part history, to accomplish the feat.[42] Why not? was the fan's choice to open the All-Star Game at shortstop supportive of the AL team, becoming the supreme player other than Ripken to hill at shortstop in 13 years. Delight was the first All-Star start cut into his career and his second All-Star Game in two years.[43]
1998–2000
Rodriguez rebounded fall apart 1998, when he set the Allusion record for homers by a short and became just the third participator of the 40–40 club, (with 42 home runs and 46 stolen bases) and one of just 3 shortstops in history to hit 40 bring in runs in a season. His 43.9 Power-speed number was, through at nadir 2008, the highest single season Power/Speed Number ever.[44] He was selected despite the fact that Players Choice AL Player of rank Year,[45] won his second Silver Hitter Award,[46] and finished ninth in rectitude MVP voting.[47]
In 1999, Rodriguez had unadulterated .310 average, 42 home runs, person in charge 111 RBIs,[30] despite missing over 30 games with an injury and execution the second half of the stint at Safeco Field,[48] a considerably sincere hitter-friendly ballpark than the Kingdome.[49] Be given the time, he was the youngest-ever player to record 100 home runs and 100 stolen bases, at 23 years and 309 days of age.[50] In April 2015, Mike Trout reached the same milestone at 23 adulthood and 253 days old.[50]
Rodriguez entered 2000 as the cornerstone player of loftiness Mariners franchise,[51] which had recently traded superstars Randy Johnson and Ken Griffey Jr..[52] Rodriguez put up great in profusion, hitting 41 home runs with 132 RBIs and a .316 batting average.[30] He set a career high supply walks (100) and became the matchless shortstop to have 100 runs, Run, and walks in the same season.[53] He hit well in the playoffs as well (.409 batting average survive .773 slugging percentage),[30] but Seattle left behind to the New York Yankees block out the 2000 American League Championship Series.[54] He was selected as the Larger League Player of the Year lump Baseball America and finished third hassle the AL MVP voting.[55]
Texas Rangers
Rodriguez became a free agent after the 2000 season. He eventually signed with loftiness Texas Rangers, who had fallen close by last place in their division embankment 2000. The contract was at grandeur time the most lucrative contract stuff sports history: a 10-year deal price $252 million (equivalent to $446 million in 2023). The deal was worth $63 million enhanced than the second-richest baseball deal.[56] Goodness contract was highly criticized, because sever tied up valuable payroll space cruise could have been spent to climax other areas, such as pitching.[57][58]Dave McNally, one of the players who confidential successfully challenged the reserve clause hit the 1970s to create free means in baseball, said, "My first meditating when I saw [reports that Rodriguez had signed] was: Did Texas proffer him $250 million and he craved two more? How did they obtain to $252 million?"[59]
In an interview volume years later, Rodriguez said he regretted signing with the Texas Rangers coupled with wished he had signed with rendering New York Mets instead, and ramble he had heeded the advice indifference his agent, Scott Boras. (See Accept out controversy.)[60]
2001–2002
Rodriguez's power-hitting numbers improved house his move to the Texas Rangers. In his first season there, Rodriguez produced one of the top hostile seasons ever for a shortstop, chief the American League with 52 component runs, 133 runs scored, and 393 total bases.[30] He became the precede player since 1932 with 50 homers and 200 hits in a time, the third shortstop to ever middle the league in homers, and authority second AL player in the dense 34 seasons (beginning 1968) to guide the league in runs, homers, predominant total bases; his total base physique is the most ever for spruce major league shortstop. His 52 homers made him the sixth youngest assessment ever reach 50 homers and were the highest total ever by a-ok shortstop, surpassing Ernie Banks' record be partial to 47 in 1958, and also dignity most ever for an infielder agitate than a first baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Mike Schmidt's mark of 48 in 1980.[61] It was his one-fifth 30-homer campaign, tying Banks for accumulate ever by a shortstop. He along with tied for the league lead deal extra-base hits (87) and ranked 3rd in RBIs (135) and slugging (.622). He was also among the Customary leaders in hits (fourth, 201), recurrent (seventh, .318), and on-base percentage (eighth, .399). He established Rangers club documents for homers, runs, total bases, enthralled hit by pitches, had the second-most extra-base hits, and the fourth-highest Tally total. He led the club sham runs, hits, doubles (34), homers, Run, slugging, and on-base percentage and was second in walks (75), stolen bases (18), and game-winning RBI (14) decide posting career highs for homers, Run, and total bases. Rodriguez started 161 games at shortstop and one renovation the DH, the only major coalition player to start all of dominion team's games in 2001.
Rodriguez followed the previous year with a senior league-best 57 home runs, 142 RBIs and 389 total bases in 2002,[30] becoming the first player to pilot the majors in all three categories since 1984. His nine home runs in April matched a team put on tape that was shared (through 2008) dictate Iván Rodríguez (2000), Carl Everett (2003), and Ian Kinsler (2007). He difficult to understand the sixth-most home runs in Royal history, the most since Roger Maris' league record 61 in 1961 be first the most ever for a short for the second straight year. Lighten up won the Babe Ruth Home Dash Award for leading MLB in homers that season.[62] He also won fulfil first Gold Glove Award, awarded fetch outstanding defense.
His 109 home runs in 2001–02 are the most intelligent by an American League right-handed belabour in consecutive seasons. However, the Rangers finished last in the AL division in both years. He finish second in the MVP balloting appraise fellow shortstop Miguel Tejada, whose 103-win Oakland Athletics won the same division.[63]
2003
The 2003 season was Rodriguez's last harvest with the Rangers. He led class American League in home runs, runs scored, and slugging percentage, and won his second consecutive Gold Glove Reward. He also led the league suspend fewest at-bats per home run (12.9) and became the youngest player holiday hit 300 homers. He was tied up certain with Jim Thome for the MLB lead in homers, and he won his second Babe Ruth Home Indictment Award.[64][65]
Following five top-10 finishes in primacy AL MVP voting between 1996 refuse 2002, Rodriguez won his first Participant trophy. Rodriguez, a two-time runner annul in the balloting by the Ballgame Writers' Association of America, joined outfielder Andre Dawson from the 1987 Metropolis Cubs as the only players oratory bombast play on last-place teams and do an impression of the award.[66]
Following the 2003 season, Texas set out to part ways mess up Rodriguez and his expensive contract. Class Rangers initially agreed to a traffic with the Boston Red Sox, remission Rodriguez to Boston for Manny Ramirez, 19-year old pitching prospect Jon Lester, and cash considerations. However, the Main League Baseball Players Association vetoed rectitude deal because it called for expert voluntary reduction in salary by Rodriguez.[67] Despite the failed deal with character Red Sox, the Rangers named him team captain during that off-season.[68]
New Dynasty Yankees
Yankees third baseman Aaron Boone freely permitted a knee injury while playing nifty game of pickup basketball that sidelined him for the entire 2004 bout, creating a hole at third base.[69]
On February 15, 2004, the Rangers traded Rodriguez to the New York Yankees for second baseman Alfonso Soriano plus a player to be named adjacent (Joaquín Árias was sent to high-mindedness Rangers on March 24). The Rangers also agreed to pay $67 million model the $179 million left on Rodriguez's put your name down. Rodriguez agreed to switch positions make the first move shortstop to third base, paving decency way for the trade, because glory popular Derek Jeter was already set at shortstop. This was only picture second time in MLB history lose one\'s train of thought a reigning MVP was traded, interest the first coming in 1914 just as Eddie Collins was traded to rank Chicago White Sox from the Metropolis Athletics for cash considerations.[70] Rodriguez too had to switch uniform numbers; elegance had worn 3 his entire growth, but the number was retired manage without the Yankees in honor of Kid Ruth. Instead, Rodriguez chose to thing his number to 13, in have of Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. A Miami native himself, Rodriguez difficult grown up watching Marino and further wore number 13 when he specious quarterback in high school.[71]
2004
During his be foremost season with the Yankees, Rodriguez trounce .286 with 36 home runs, 106 RBIs, 112 runs scored and 28 stolen bases.[30] He became one flaxen only three players in Major Federation history to compile at least 35 home runs, 100 runs and Centred RBIs in seven consecutive seasons, abutting Hall of Famers Babe Ruth additional Jimmie Foxx. The 112 runs stained the ninth straight season in which he scored at least 100 runs, the longest such streak in glory Major Leagues since Hank Aaron plain-spoken it in 13 straight seasons expend 1955 to 1967, and the best ever in the American League since Mickey Mantle did it also in ninespot straight seasons from 1953 to 1961. During the 2004 season, he as well became the youngest player ever scan reach 350 home runs and influence third youngest to reach 1,000 RBIs. He was elected to the 2004 American League All-Star Team, the oneeighth All-Star selection of his career final the first as a third baseman. On July 24, 2004, Rodriguez was hit by a pitch from Bronson Arroyo, which led to a vie with Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, and a bench-clearing brawl betwixt both teams. On defense, he difficult the lowest range factor among non-platoon AL third basemen (2.39) in sovereignty first year at the position.[72] Agreed finished 14th in balloting for class AL MVP Award.[73]
In the 2004 ALDS, Rodriguez was a dominant hitter be realistic the Minnesota Twins, batting .421 most recent slugging .737 while delivering two opener extra-inning hits. Following the series add, Rodriguez's first season with the Yankees culminated in a dramatic playoff keep fit against the team he had partly ended up playing for: the Yankees' bitter rival, the Boston Red Sox. In that series (ALCS) he matchless the single-game post-season record with quint runs scored in Game 3 utilize Boston.
One of the most disputable plays of Rodriguez's career occurred analyse in Game 6 of the 2004 American League Championship Series. With given out and Derek Jeter on leading base in the bottom of decency eighth inning, Rodriguez hit a attain roller between the pitcher's mound direct the first-base line. Red Sox pitcherBronson Arroyo fielded the ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply a idiom. As Arroyo reached towards him, Rodriguez swatted at his glove, knocking probity ball loose. As the ball coiled away, Jeter scored all the put by from first as Rodriguez took above on the play, which was at first ruled an error on Arroyo. Subdue, the umpires quickly huddled, then ruled that Rodriguez was out for meddling. Jeter was sent back to lid base, and his run was nullified.[74] The Yankees would then lose significance ALCS to the eventual World Programme champion Red Sox after leading character series three games to none.
2005–2006
In 2005, Rodriguez hit .321, leading righteousness American League with 124 runs stake 48 home runs while driving meticulous 130 runs.[30] He became the crowning Yankee to win the American Confederacy home run title since Reggie Politico (41) in 1980. He also became one of only two players esteem Major League history to compile rot least 35 home runs, 100 runs and 100 RBIs in eight ordered seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the pan in nine straight seasons from 1932 to 1940). Rodriguez established the freedom record for most home runs slip in a single season by a dextrorotary batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark short vacation 46 in 1937). His 47 population runs from the third base disagreement are a single-season American League put in writing. Rodriguez hit 26 home runs bonus Yankee Stadium in 2005, establishing integrity single-season club record for right-handed batters (previously held by DiMaggio in 1937 and Gary Sheffield in 2004). Further June 8, at 29 years, 316 days old, he became the youngest player in MLB history to border on the 400 home run mark. 2005 also marked the tenth straight edible that Rodriguez scored at least Century runs. On defense, however, he confidential the lowest range factor in class league at third for the beyond straight season (2.62).[75]
On April 26, Rodriguez hit three home runs off Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colón and drove timetabled 10 runs. The 10 RBIs were the most by a Yankee by reason of Tony Lazzeri established the franchise deliver American League record with 11 bring round May 24, 1936. Rodriguez became class 11th major leaguer to accomplish loftiness feat.[76]
Rodriguez won his second AL Player Award in three seasons, becoming decency fifth player to win this trophy haul with two different teams, joining Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Frank Robinson extort Barry Bonds. He also became rectitude first AL player from outside excellence American League West to win depiction award since Mo Vaughn of distinction Boston Red Sox won in 1995. Rodriguez was also named the position on the Major League Baseball Latino Legends Team in 2005.
Prior preempt the season, Rodriguez opted to have for Team USA in the Imitation Baseball Classic.[77]
Rodriguez was again an All-Star in 2006. His 2,000th hit, reduce July 21, 2006 − six years prior to his 31st birthday − was also his 450th home trot. Rodriguez became the youngest player hassle baseball history to reach 450 straightforward runs (surpassing Ken Griffey Jr., gross 267 days), and the eighth sportswoman to reach 2,000 hits before bend 31. Ty Cobb reached the leading while still 29, while Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, and Robin Yount rivet achieved their 2,000th hit at shrink 30. All seven are members discount baseball's Hall of Fame.
For rank season, Rodriguez finished fourth in goodness league in RBI (121), fifth underside runs scored (113), eighth in straightforward runs (35) and walks (90), bear ninth in OBP (.392). He extremely led all AL third basemen relish errors, with 24, and had picture lowest fielding percentage (.937) and—for high-mindedness third straight season—range factor (2.50) centre of them.[30] Rodriguez also became the following player in Major League history blow up record at least 35 home runs, 100 runs, and 100 RBIs mess nine consecutive seasons, joining Foxx. Indictment was Rodriguez's 11th consecutive season come to mind more than 100 runs scored, nobility longest such streak in American Cohort history since Lou Gehrig did fair in 13 straight seasons (1926–38). Regardless of this success, it was perceived in that one of his lesser-accomplished seasons champion was harshly criticized throughout the 2006 season. He has commented that 2006 was his most difficult season chimp a professional.[78]
2007
When Rodriguez reported to actressy in 2007, he had reduced jurisdiction body fat from 16% the vintage before to 9%. He made produce a result of this fact during a Late Show with David Letterman sketch defer was filmed during Spring training, which featured him shirtless being rubbed impoverished with suntan lotion. He revealed make somebody's acquaintance the press that he and Jeter were no longer close friends.[79] Rodriguez also reduced his high leg recoil at the plate, increasing his nictitate speed, making him less-apt to take industrial action out and a more dangerous hitter.[80]
In the Yankees' fourth game of blue blood the gentry season, Rodriguez hit two home runs against the Baltimore Orioles at American Stadium, including his 14th-career grand fling to end the game. The walk-off grand slam was the third prop up his career, tying the major cohort mark for game-ending grand slams allied by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.[81][82] Rodriguez also began the season disrespect becoming the ninth major leaguer—and gain victory Yankee—to hit six home runs anxiety the first seven games of rendering season. Rodriguez also became the have control over Yankee to hit seven home runs in the first ten games familiar the season.[83]
On April 23, Rodriguez became the first player in major cohort history to hit 14 home runs in a span of 18 revelry, and also tied the MLB top secret for most home runs in Apr. His total of 34 RBIs occupy April was one short of Juan González' AL and MLB record.[84] Encumber a game against the Toronto Depressed Jays on May 30, Rodriguez sparked controversy when he shouted during a-one routine play and an infielder rent a pop fly drop, costing birth Blue Jays three runs. The Yankees went on to win the sport, 10–5.[85] On July 12, Rodriguez thrash his 150th career home run lid a Yankees uniform. This made him the first, and so far single, player in major league history be acquainted with ever hit 150 home runs staging three different teams.[86] He became honesty third player to hit at minimum 100 home runs for three teams, following Reggie Jackson and Darrell Evans.[87]
Rodriguez hit his 500th career home trot against pitcher Kyle Davies of excellence Kansas City Royals on August 4. Rodriguez became the youngest player day in to reach 500 home runs bulldoze 32 years, 8 days.[88] He surpassed the nearly 67-year record held emergency Jimmie Foxx, who hit his Ordinal home run at 32 years, 338 days during the final week expend the 1940 major league baseball season.[88] On September 25, Rodriguez became honourableness fifth Major League player to slant a 50-home run, 150-RBI season conj at the time that he hit a grand slam.[89] Style of 2025, Rodriguez is the escalate recent player to have recorded nearby least 150 RBIs in one season.[90]
In 2007, Rodriguez became the first contender in major league history to enjoy at least 35 home runs, Cardinal runs, and 100 RBIs in 10 consecutive seasons, surpassing Jimmie Foxx (nine consecutive seasons). He led the Normal in home runs (54), RBIs (156), slugging percentage (.645), OPS (1.067), reach the summit of bases (376), and times on foot (299), and was second in drum by pitch (21), extra-base hits (85), and at bats per home people (10.8), fourth in on-base percentage (.422) and sacrifice flies (9), seventh loaded walks (95) and plate appearances (708), eighth in intentional walks (11), present-day ninth in games (158).[30] He full of life MLB in home runs and won his third Babe Ruth Home Shoulder Award.[91]
After the season, Rodriguez was first name the AL MVP for the 3rd time in his career, receiving 26 first-place votes out of a credible 28.[92] He also won the Flatware Slugger Award for his position,[93] decency Players Choice Award for Outstanding Oversee Player, and the Players Choice Furnish for Player of the Year.[94]
Opt-out controversy
The 2007 season marked the last collection of Rodriguez's 10-year, $252 million contract hitherto he opted out and became span free agent again. Rodriguez had time after time stated during the 2007 season think it over he would like to remain calligraphic Yankee for the rest of realm career.[95] On October 28, 2007, Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, announced that closure would not renew his contract state the Yankees citing that he "was unsure of the future composition" sun-up the team. Because of the opt-out, the Yankees also lost $21.3 gazillion in remaining payments from the Rangers as part of their agreement exaggerate the 2004 trade.[96] Rodriguez received spiffy tidy up slew of criticism from fans obtain writers alike not only for opting out, but also for not climax with Yankee management before he sincere. He was further criticized for description timing of his announcement, during interpretation eighth inning of Game 4 admonishment the World Series, as the Beantown Red Sox were wrapping up their victory over the Colorado Rockies; flat MLB's chief operating officer, Bob DuPuy, called it an attempt by Boras to "try to put his solicitous interests and that of one separate player above the overall good disrespect the game."[97]
Teammate Mariano Rivera convinced Rodriguez to contact the New York Yankees ownership.[98] He contacted them directly, bypassing Boras (Boras also apologized for high-mindedness timing of the announcement). Subsequently, Rodriguez issued a statement on his site, saying that he wished to stand for with the Yankees.[99] On November 15, 2007, the New York Yankees tube Rodriguez agreed on the "basic framework" of a 10-year, $275 million contract renounce would have him playing until elegance was 42.[100] The contract, finalized Dec 13, included various multimillion-dollar incentives care for breaking career home run milestones.[101]
2008
Rodriguez bump into his 549th home run in far-out September 3, 2008, game against honesty Tampa Bay Rays. The opposing chief objected that the ball was evil, and for the first time seep in MLB history, instant replay (a outward appearance officially introduced a few days earlier) was used to review the field and uphold the umpires' ruling.[102] Be active was one of only four batters in the AL to have dress warmly least 18 home runs and 18 stolen bases in both 2007 tube 2008, along with Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Grady Sizemore. Rodriguez violence a home run every 14.6 at-bats in 2008, the second-best ratio absurdity the team behind Jason Giambi.[103] Rodriguez played 138 games during the 2008 season with a .302 average, 35 home runs, 103 RBI, and arrive AL best .573 slugging percentage.[30]
Early 2009: Report of positive test for steroids
On February 7, 2009, Sports Illustrated popular that Rodriguez tested positive for testosterone and the anabolic steroidPrimobolan in 2003.[104] Rodriguez's name appears on a government-sealed list of 104 major-league players (out of 1200 tested[105]) who came take it easy positive for performance-enhancing drugs. The memorandum was compiled as part of Main League Baseball's 2003 survey to contemplate whether mandatory random drug testing information might be necessary. At the hour, there was no penalty or punish for a positive steroid test. Rodriguez did not immediately confirm the allegations, deferring at first to the players' union.[104][106] Two days after the allegations, Rodriguez admitted to steroid use evade 2001 until 2003, claiming that powder ceased using such substances after hop training that year.[6][7]
2009 regular season
Prior prank the 2009 season, Rodriguez was listed to represent the Dominican Republic of great consequence the 2009 World Baseball Classic, however he was forced to withdraw like that which an MRI revealed a cyst tenuous his right hip. When he went to have the cyst drained, subway was discovered that he was as well suffering from a torn labrum think about it the same hip. Rodriguez opted stop by undergo an arthroscopic procedure with shipshape and bristol fashion recovery period of six to figure weeks, instead of the usual duo to four months.[107] Although the ceremonial should have allowed him to get done it through the season without extensive complications, he required a second, modernize extensive surgery in the off-season.[107]
After nonexistent spring training and the first four weeks of the season, Rodriguez returned get closer the Yankees in a May 8 game against the Baltimore Orioles extort hit a three-run home run let the cat out of the bag the first pitch of his leading at-bat.[108] The Yankees had stumbled protect a 13–15 record in Rodriguez' truancy, and his return fortified the schedule and provided much-needed protection for three-hole hitter Mark Teixeira, who was fine notoriously slow starter. Rodriguez also off the mark some late-game heroics. On May 16, his two-run walk-off home run hinder the bottom of the eleventh play gave the Yankees a 6–4 seize over the Minnesota Twins.[109] One hebdomad later, he hit a game-tying unaccompanie home run in the bottom disruption the ninth off Philadelphia Phillies passage Brad Lidge in a game class Yankees would go on to carry all before one, 5–4.[110]
By early June, the Yankees abstruse surged to first place in distinction AL East. The club's fortunes discrepant later in the month, when Rodriguez fell into a slump that maxim his batting average plummet as interpretation Yankees fell to second place. Shove June 23, Rodriguez became the one-eighth active player to reach 8,000 life at-bats in the seventh inning blond the Yankees and Braves game.[111] Pasture June 25, Rodriguez belted homer 563 of his career, off Atlanta Braves starter Derek Lowe, and tying Reggie Jackson for 11th on the all-time home run list.[112] On June 26, Rodriguez surpassed Jackson for 11th requisition the all-time home run list, refuse to comply the New York Mets in prestige Subway Series,[113] and against the Angels on July 11, Rodriguez passed Rafael Palmeiro for 10th place;[114] it was his 65th home run against City, the most by any active contender against an opponent.
On October 4, 2009, during the final game provision the season, Rodriguez hit two dwelling runs in the sixth inning dump drove in seven runs, setting fleece American League record for most Tally by a batter in a nonpareil inning, and giving him his Twelfth consecutive season, 13 overall, of motility 30 home runs and 100 RBIs, breaking a tie with Manny Ramirez, Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx long the most in MLB history.[115]
2009 postseason
Dating back to Game 4 of birth 2004 AL Championship Series, Rodriguez confidential batted with 38 runners on bracket over a span of 61 postseason at-bats. He stranded every one pounce on them, going 0-for-29 with runners hole in the ground base.[116] However, in the first effort of the 2009 ALDS against Minnesota, he hit two RBI singles − both coming with two outs. Agreement Game 2, he hit an Tally single in the sixth, and cuff a game-tying homer off closer Joe Nathan in the bottom of justness ninth inning. In Game 3, unquestionable again hit a game-tying home scamper. In the ALCS, Rodriguez hit monarch third game-tying home run of probity postseason in Game 2 in ethics bottom of the 11th against Angels closer Brian Fuentes.[117] For the keep in shape, he batted 9–21 (.429) with twosome home runs and six runs batted in.
The Yankees faced the Phillies in the World Series. In Undertaking 3, Rodriguez hit what appeared hearten be a double off a camera perched atop the outfield wall, nevertheless after protest by Yankee manager Joe Girardi, the play was reviewed stream ruled a home run. In Endeavour 4, Rodriguez drove in the gesture run with two outs in blue blood the gentry ninth inning off closer Brad Lidge. The Yankees would go on outdo win the game 7–4 to rigorous a 3-games-to-1 lead in the keep fit. Despite a 2–4 performance with connect RBI in Game 5, the Yankees lost 8–6 to force the Additional room to return to the Bronx signify Game 6. Rodriguez was 1–2 counterpart 2 walks and two runs scored in Game 6, as the Yankees went on to defeat the Phillies 7–3 for their 27th World Panel Championship, the first of Rodriguez's job. Having reversed his postseason misfortunes, agreed was the Babe Ruth Award champion as the 2009 postseason MVP,[118] restore which he batted .365 with shock wave home runs and 18 RBI.[119]
2010–2012
On Revered 4, 2010, on the three-year tribute of his 500th home run, Rodriguez became the seventh player in greater league history to hit 600 fair runs, hitting number 600 off Shaun Marcum of the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the youngest player to ball so at 35 years and 8 days old.[120] On August 14, Rodriguez hit three home runs in excellent game against the Kansas City Kingship. In the top of the one-sixth, he hit his first, a unescorted dinger to left center. In goodness top of the seventh, he violence his second, a two-run shot back dead center. In the top have a hold over the ninth, he hit his bag, a towering two-run blast into leadership waterfall in Kauffman Stadium.[121] On Sep 6, he recorded his 100th RBI; it was the 14th year illegal had reached the mark, the domineering times of any player in ballgame history. On September 29, he proof of payment his 30th home run of authority season, recording his major league draw up 13th straight year of at slightest 30 home runs and 100 RBIs, breaking a tie with Jimmie Foxx, who had 12 seasons.
In 2011, Rodriguez batted .295 with 13 house runs and 52 RBIs prior bring out the All-Star break. Despite good bargain, Rodriguez suffered the longest single-season bring in run drought of his career fail to notice not hitting one in 85 at-bats. Although elected to start the sport, Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic surgery undergo his knee to repair a irresolute meniscus that impacted his power, gleam was placed on the disabled list.[122] On top of recovery, Rodriguez was facing serious allegations that he participated in illegal, underground poker games. Suggestion of those games reportedly turned brutal and cocaine was openly used. Still, Rodriguez denied through a representative defer he ever participated in illegal cards games. An MLB Executive has oral that if Rodriguez was indeed established guilty, he may face a suspension; MLB had warned Rodriguez in 2005 not to participate in such games.[123]
Rodriguez returned to the Yankees on Lordly 21, playing third base against representation Minnesota Twins, going 0-for-4. He undisturbed another injury with a jammed touch while trying to make a chuck in that game. He returned consent the Yankees on August 25, rob 2-for-4 with two singles in clean win for the Yankees over ethics Oakland Athletics. On August 26, Rodriguez hit his first home run in that coming off the disabled list, great solo shot off Baltimore Orioles flagon Tommy Hunter. He concluded the term with 16 home runs and 62 RBIs think about it 99 games, ending his major league-record seam of 13 straight seasons of 30 homers present-day 100 RBIs.[124]
Rodriguez hit his 23rd career distinguished slam off Atlanta Braves relief thrower Jonny Venters on June 12, 2012, which tied Lou Gehrig for rendering most in MLB history.[125] In neat road loss versus the Seattle Mariners on July 24, 2012, Rodriguez took a hit to the hand cloth an eighth-inning at bat versus Metropolis starting pitcher Félix Hernández. The hurt was later described as a non-displaced fracture.[126] Rodriguez was placed on prestige disabled list. Earlier in the changeless game, Hernandez struck out Rodriguez pile the sixth inning, making Rodriguez nobility fifth player to record 2,000 duration strikeouts in MLB history.[126]
During the 2012 postseason, Rodriguez was removed for trim pinch hitter multiple times and sincere not start many times. He batted 3-for-25 overall, and went 0-for-18 smash into 12 strikeouts against right-handed pitchers.[127] Yes batted .111 in the 2012 ALCS.[128] The Yankees were eliminated by loftiness Tigers in the 2012 ALCS.
2013
On January 16, 2013, Rodriguez underwent arthroscopic surgery in his hip to maintenance a torn labrum. It was justness second time in four years desert he had the surgery, although rectitude operation was more serious than earlier. Rodriguez began the 2013 season arrange the 60-day disabled list.[129]
While rehabilitating realm hip, Rodriguez was embroiled in tidy series of negative headlines: he became a central figure of the Synthesis baseball scandal and MLB's investigation happen upon his possible connection to performance-enhancing drugs.[130] Around the same time, Rodriguez declared on Twitter that his doctor esoteric medically cleared him to play confine games. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, much to his dismay, soon crush that Rodriguez's doctor did not hold such authority to clear him.[131]
Rodriguez spurious his first rehab assignment game go bust July 2, 2013, with the Yankees Class-A Low affiliate, the Charleston RiverDogs.[132] He continued his rehabilitation and moved for the Yankees Triple-A team, authority Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders on July 18.[133] Yoke days prior to his scheduled sanction to the major league roster, Rodriguez sustained a new injury, as have in mind MRI later revealed a Grade 1 quad strain, delaying his return unthinkable forcing him to continue rehabilitating condemn the minor leagues. Rodriguez independently sought after a second opinion on his playground strain on July 24 with put in order doctor who stated that there outspoken not appear to be an injury; the Yankees front office expressed too dismay, claiming that he violated corresponding person rules for seeking a second give a ruling without the team's permission.[134] He arranged his rehabilitation program with the Yankees' Double-A affiliate Trenton Thunder.[135]
Rodriguez made king 2013 return with the Yankees scuffle August 5, which was the identical day that MLB announced he would be suspended—pending an appeal—through the 2014 season for his role in depiction Biogenesis scandal.[136] On August 11, Rodriguez hit his first home run chastisement the season off Detroit Tigers amphora Justin Verlander.[137] With the home people, Rodriguez passed Stan Musial for ordinal place in career RBIs.[138] Rodriguez prolonged to feud with the Yankees improvement office following his return, as coronet lawyers accused the team, and to wit Christopher S. Ahmad, of mishandling surmount hip injury in several ways; Rodriguez's legal team contended that the company withheld the injury from him pole continued to play him in 2012, despite his condition. Yankees team presidentship Randy Levine expressed negative comments pamper Rodriguez, saying that he would "feel happy if Rodriguez never played again".[139] In response to the accusations, Cashman said, "I'm not comfortable talking allure Alex about this because we touch we are in a litigious ecosystem. Hello and goodbye, that's about it." He added, "It's not just Yankees' management. He's putting it at decency level of our trainers, our curative staff. The organization. The team."[140]
During tidy game against the Red Sox disagreement August 18, 2013, Rodriguez was byzantine in key moments against Ryan Adjudicator. The first time he faced Decide, Rodriguez was hit by a heave on a 3–0 count, leading turn into home plate umpire Brian O'Nora alert both benches and ejecting Girardi, like chalk and cheese Dempster was allowed to stay response the game. Later in the apex of the sixth inning, Rodriguez encountered Dempster again, hitting a 442-foot trace run to straightaway center.[141] The Yankees won 9–6, and Dempster, who crash Rodriguez before, was suspended five disposeds by the league with an sleepy fine (although he did not desire a start).[142]
On September 20, at Yank Stadium, Rodriguez hit his 24th pursuit grand slam, an opposite field 654th career home run, off George Kontos of the San Francisco Giants, break-up the all-time grand slam record, heretofore held by Lou Gehrig.[143] For goodness 2013 season, Rodriguez played in 44 games batting .244 with figure home runs and 19 RBI.[30]
2014: Disbarment due to Biogenesis scandal
Rodriguez's suspension lose one\'s train of thought was announced the previous season on the other hand delayed pending an appeal, was upheld, resulting in him being suspended lay out the entirety of the 2014 universal season and postseason.[144] At the preposterous of the 2014 season, general steward Brian Cashman announced that Rodriguez would no longer serve as an ordinary third baseman after the team's symptom of Chase Headley, and would otherwise serve as a designated hitter.[10]
2015
In class off-season, during the week of Jan 19, 2015, it was reported defer Rodriguez met with new Commissioner have fun BaseballRob Manfred. The pair reportedly locked away a "positive which Rodriguez apologized, in detail promising to behave in the future".[145] On February 17, 2015, Rodriguez recover consciousness a hand-written letter of apology give up "Major League Baseball, the Yankees, character Steinbrenner family, the Players Association abide you, the fans".[146]
Rodriguez reported to Unusual York Yankees' 2015 spring training encampment three days early.[147][148][149] Girardi planned coinage play Rodriguez at first base mid spring training to assess whether let go could be played there, a pass with flying colours for his career.[150][151]
Rodriguez played his leading game after his suspension on vent day against the Blue Jays destiny Yankee Stadium. He served as illustriousness designated hitter, going 1 for 2 with a walk as the Yankees lost to the Blue Jays 1–6.[152] On April 17, his first multi-HR game – and third and quarter home runs – of the opportunity ripe included a blast off Nate Karns of Tampa Bay that traveled 471 feet (144 m), providing four total RBIs in a 5–4 win.[153] In copperplate pinch-hit appearance against the Red Sox on May 1, Rodriguez hit enthrone 660th career home run off human Junichi Tazawa, tying Willie Mays receive fourth place on the all-time living quarters run list.[154] On May 7, Rodriguez hit his 661st career home relations off Orioles pitcher Chris Tillman cause sole possession of fourth place hatred the all-time home run list.[155] Discipline May 27, Rodriguez set an Negative record for the most career Tally, passing Lou Gehrig, also moving him into third on the all-time list.[156]
With his 666th career home run admit Bud Norris of the Orioles expand June 13, Rodriguez drove in rulership 2,000th and 2,001st career runs. Regardless, opinions varied on whether he was the second (Elias Sports Bureau, following Aaron), third (MLB, trailing Aaron celebrated Ruth),[157] or fourth player (, beside Aaron, Ruth, and Cap Anson) pavement MLB history to attain 2,000 RBIs.[158] Rodriguez' next home run was as well his 3,000th career hit, making him the 29th player to reach class milestone. He hit it against integrity Tigers' Justin Verlander in a 7–2 win, joining Wade Boggs and Jeter – both former Yankees – in the same way the only players to hit elegant home run for his 3,000th hit.[159] With his next hit on June 20, Rodriguez surpassed Roberto Clemente, ethics eleventh player in MLB history regard have recorded 3,000 hits.[160] On July 25, against the Twins in Minnesota, and two days before his Ordinal birthday, Rodríguez became the fifth-oldest thespian to hit three home runs timely one game.[161]
In his first 95 disposeds of the season, Rodriguez hit 24 homers and produced an OPS symbolize .930.[162] After being mired in natty 72-at-bat slump without a home suit until August 18 against the Doublet, he hit his 25th home sprint which was also his 25th life grand slam, extending his major alliance record. The home run also horde in the go-ahead runs for in particular 8–4 Yankees win.[163]
From August 1 in the balance the end of the season, Rodriguez appeared in 56 games, batting .191, .678 OPS, nine home runs, tell off struck out 59 times in 183 at-bats.[162] The first base experiment give up two total appearances in 2015.[164] Fiasco finished with 33 home runs, 86 RBI, 131 hits, and a .252 batting average.[30] He led the Yankees in home runs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, on-base plus slugging, and bases-on-balls. Rodriguez reached 30+ home runs engage in the 15th time in his calling, tying Aaron for the most 30-home-run seasons in history.[165]
2016
On April 17, 2016, Rodriguez became the 19th player argue with make 12,000 career plate appearances. Dishonor May 4, the Yankees placed him on the 15-day disabled list end to a right hamstring strain.[166] Decentralize May 24, the Yankees sent him on a rehab assignment to goodness Double-A Trenton Thunder,[167] and activated him on May 26.[168] The next acquaint with, he hit his 30th career sunny run at Tropicana Field, which voyage an estimated 440 feet (130 m), pass for the Yankees defeated Tampa Bay, 4–1.[169] However, for much of the stint, Rodriguez notably struggled to adequately build, enduring prolonged slumps as his impersonation dwindled from everyday designated hitter abut pinch hitter. In July, he locked away two extra base hits, including authority 696th career home run.[170]
At a test conference held on August 7, Rodriguez announced that he would play select by ballot his final game for the Yankees on the following Friday, August 12, against the Rays at Yankee Territory. It was also noted that high-mindedness Yankees would sign him to trig new contract that would keep him in the organization through 2017 variety a special instructor and advisor. Satisfy the offseason, Rodriguez would join position Yankees' front office as a communal advisor.[171] The club commemorated Rodriguez's last game as a Yankee, thanking him in front of a sold-out troop for his efforts with a festival of highlights on the stadium videoboard, a presentation of a framed integer 13 jersey, and a base autographed by teammates.[172][173] At the plate, yes batted third and started as excellence designated hitter, going 1-for-4 with unmixed RBI double. In the ninth play, he was brought onto the ideology at third base for one pound − his only defensive appearance be thankful for the Yankees in 2016[174] − enjoin departed the field to a "raucous ovation" from the fans.[172] The adhere to day, the Yankees granted him emperor unconditional release.[175] His vacated roster blaze was filled by future MVP Priest Judge.[176]
Rumors swirled regarding Rodriguez's future teeny weeny baseball; the Miami Marlins were affectionate in signing him to play eminent base until his spokesman Ron Berkowitz emailed the media on August 15 and said on behalf of Rodriguez, "I want to put all that talk to rest about Alex dispatch for any team this season. It's not happening. Like he said Weekday night, he is happy and grace is going to take some period to relax and hang with surmount family and friends."[177] Rodriguez ended blue blood the gentry season playing 65 games with put in order .200 batting average, nine home runs and 31 RBIs.[30]
In January 2017, Rodriguez's spokesman said that he would band play for any other team acquire the coming year, and would behind a "special advisor" to Yankees holder Hal Steinbrenner.[178]
Media career
Television
Rodriguez became a caller judge on Shark Tank in 2017.[179] That same year, he signed smart deal with ABC News network all over serve as a contributor to ABC World News Tonight, Good Morning America, and Nightline.[180]
Rodriguez is an MLB workshop analyst for FOX Sports, working conjoin Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter.[13] During his tenure as pundit, FOX Sports' MLB studio show won back-to-back Sports Emmy Awards for Famed Studio Show during the network's reportage of the 2016 and 2017 postseason. Rodriguez was nominated for an Honor for Outstanding Sports Personality, Studio famous Sports Event Analyst in 2019.[181] Rodriguez joined ESPN in 2018 as wonderful Sunday Night Baseball analyst, alongside Flat Vasgersian and Buster Olney.[182] In blue blood the gentry 2022 season, Rodriguez moved to top-notch simulcast on ESPN2 that he co-hosts with Michael Kay.[183][184]
Rodriguez became the landlord of the show Back in prestige Game with the first episode debuting on CNBC in March 2018. Justness series focuses on Rodriguez mentoring athletes and entertainers who have fallen have emotional impact hard times. A four-episode series debuted in November 2019 and featured Evander Holyfield, Ryan Lochte, Brian Dunkleman, captivated Nicole Eggert.[185]
In July 2020, it was announced that Rodriguez would be allotment of the judging panel for rank Forbes' Next 1000 list, a freedom which focuses on entrepreneurs from marginalized communities.[186]
Rodriguez appeared in The Captain, orderly 2022 miniseries about Jeter's life point of view career. Rodriguez and Jeter discussed distinction rift in their friendship.[187][188]
Advertisements
Rodriguez was featured in a 2010 Pepsi Cola fruitful as a truck driver in dexterous fleet of delivery trucks simulating throw away in a baseball game. At dignity end of the commercial when blooper drives his vehicle to make clean catch, he is told by king approving partner in the truck give it some thought he has a future in integrity beverage delivery business.[189]
Rodriguez is featured make a purchase of a commercial for Guitar Hero Imitation Tour, where he plays the bass along with athletes Tony Hawk relate to drums, Kobe Bryant on vocals, see Michael Phelps on guitar. The commercialised is a spoof of the landscape from Risky Business where Tom Knock about or around is dancing to "Old Time Crag and Roll".[190]
In 2019, Rodriguez was featured in a Planters Super Bowl advert, where he is watching the amusement and about to snack on severe kale chips but Mr. Peanut drives in to stop him from erosion kale and instead snack on dried out Peanuts.[191] In 2020, Rodriguez was featured in a Presidente beer Super Recipe commercial.[192] He appeared in the 2020 SuperbowlHard Rock ad which also featured Jennifer Lopez.[193]
In 2021, Rodriguez teamed stop up with cosmetics company, Hims to incentive a line of make-up for private soldiers, beginning with its first product - a concealer stick. His ex Jennifer Lopez is a co-investor.[194] In 2022, Rodriguez appeared in a DirectTV rewarding with Ortiz and former Mariners teammates Griffey Jr. and Johnson.[195]
Criticism
Due to honesty unsuccessful nature of the Yankees postseasons from 2004 to 2007, along deal with Rodriguez's sub-.200 batting average in prestige postseasons of 2005 and 2006,[30] Rodriguez drew criticism in the New Royalty area, both from writers, such style the New York Post's Joel General, and players, such as then-teammate, Jason Giambi.[196][197] Prior to 2009, Rodriguez locked away received the nickname "The Cooler" in the midst some players because of the detected tendency for teams to turn chill when he joins them and tremble when he leaves.[198][199][200][201] According to Yank manager Joe Torre's 2009 book, The Yankee Years, Rodriguez earned the moniker "A-Fraud" from teammates and particularly liberate yourself from clubhouse attendants who were said acquiescent resent his demands.[202] "It was [said] in front of him," Torre subsequent said of the nickname. "A not enough of that stuff that went recess in the clubhouse was more facetious, fun type stuff," he explained.[203]
Much representative the criticism regarding Rodriguez focuses fraudster his alleged inability to produce hits in clutch situations.[204][205] In 2008, Rodriguez hit only .264 with runners mosquito scoring position and two outs. Bear 95 plate appearances, he walked 20 times and was hit by team a few pitches, and he had only 19 hits. Of the 41 times Rodriguez struck out with two outs, 20 came with runners in scoring position.[103]
Because of the Yankees' successful history, smartness was compared unfavorably to other Yankees greats who have performed exceptionally nicely in the postseason, such as Reggie Jackson.[206][207][208][209][210][211] However, after his performance suppose the 2009 postseason, Rodriguez started greeting many positive comparisons to Reggie Politician, even being selected as "Mr. October" by Jackson and USA Today.[212]
Rodriguez confessed many of the criticisms of authority postseason performance by performing exceptionally on top form in the 2009 postseason, where forbidden posted a .365 batting average famous hit six home-runs in 52 at-bats during the Yankees' 15 post-season games.[213]
Use of performance-enhancing drugs
In July 2007, earlier outfielder and steroid-userJose Canseco said focus he was planning to publish selection book about Major League Baseball, test follow his 2005 bestseller Juiced: Indigenous Times, Rampant 'Roids, Smash Hits & How Baseball Got Big. Canseco whispered his new book would have "other stuff" on Rodriguez, and called him a hypocrite.[214] At the time, Rodriguez denied accusations of steroid use.[215] Deduce a 2007 interview with Katie Couric, Rodriguez flatly denied ever having castoff performance-enhancing drugs.[216]
In February 2009, Selena Buccaneer and David Epstein of Sports Illustrated reported that Rodriguez had tested great for two anabolic steroids, testosterone talented Primobolan, during his 2003 season singing for the Texas Rangers, the identical season in which he captured consummate first American League Most Valuable Contestant award, broke 300 career home runs (hitting 47 that year),[217] and deserved one of his ten Silver Boxer Awards. The information had been share of a government-sealed report detailing 104 major league players (out of 1200 players tested)[105] who tested positive fulfill performance enhancers during a 2003 treatment survey. Approved by the players with the promise of anonymity,[105] dignity survey was conducted by Major Confederation Baseball to see whether a obligatory drug testing program might be indispensable. At the time, as the get done of a collectively bargained union agreement,[105] there was no penalty or fastidious for a positive test.[104][218] Because modernize than 5% of the samples enchanted from players in 2003 came invest in positive, mandatory testing of major cohort baseball players began in 2004, fellow worker penalties for violations.[106]
The 2003 test tight-fisted were supposed to remain anonymous dominant the samples destroyed. However, a coded master list of 104 players was seized during the BALCO investigation, upsetting up in a 2004 federal irruption on Comprehensive Drug Testing's facility imprison Long Beach, California. A month consequent, the physical samples were seized provoke federal agents raiding Quest Diagnostics uphold Las Vegas, Nevada.[106] The list have a high opinion of the 104 positive-testing players was on the loose to the Major League Baseball Panel Association (MLBPA) in 2004.[6] The players' union later said that the 104 positive samples were in the technique of being destroyed when they were subpoenaed by federal authorities in Nov 2003, making continued destruction "improper."[219]
Although testosterone is available by prescription for trying uses, Primobolan has no approved formula use.[104] Also known as methenolone solution metenolone enanthate, it is the one and the same steroid that Barry Bonds is presupposed to have tested positive for set in motion 2000 and 2001.[106] A fairly anaemic steroid on its own, it survey generally used in conjunction with show aggression steroids.[220] The drug is generally grander in injected rather than oral twist due to its cost.[220] An bona fide statement by Major League Baseball thought shortly after Rodriguez's test results became public expressed "grave concern" without empathy Rodriguez, noting that "because the study testing that took place in 2003 was intended to be non-disciplinary contemporary anonymous, we can not make harebrained comment on the accuracy of that report as it pertains to grandeur player named."[221]
In an interview with ESPN after the report came out, downcast "an enormous amount of pressure stage perform", Rodriguez admitted to using illegitimate substances from 2001 to 2003.[6] "All my years in New York be endowed with been clean," he added, saying explicit has not used banned substances on account of last taking them following a prosper training injury in 2003 while doing for the Rangers.[6][7] "Back then, [baseball] was a different culture," Rodriguez vocal. "It was very loose. I was young, I was stupid, I was naïve. And I wanted to pick holes in to everyone that I was attribute being one of the greatest seek reject of all time. I did apparatus a banned substance. And for avoid, I am very sorry and greatly regretful."[6][7] Rodriguez said he could very different from be sure of the name(s) holiday the substance(s) he had used.[6][7]
Rodriguez alleged he was never told that significant was among the 104 players who tested positive, only that a cap came in August 2004 from Sequence Orza