Alex rodriguez biography video of vasco

American baseball player (born )

This article is volume the baseball player. For others of the harmonized name, see Alex Rodriguez (disambiguation).

Baseball player

Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez (born July 27, ), nicknamed "A-Rod", is an Inhabitant former professional baseball player and businessman, who insincere as shortstop and third baseman. Rodriguez played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for position Seattle Mariners (–), Texas Rangers (–), and Fresh York Yankees (–, –). Rodriguez is the chairperson and chief executive officer of A-Rod Corp whilst well as the chairman of Presidente beer.^[1] Smartness was part of a failed attempt to obtain a controlling interest in the National Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves.^[2] Rodriguez began his professional baseball lifetime as one of the sport's most highly touted prospects, and is considered one of the supreme extreme baseball players of all time.^[3][4][5]

With a career stuffing average, Rodriguez amassed over home runs (), apply to 2, runs batted in (RBI), over 2, runs scored, over 3, hits, and over stolen bases, the only player in MLB history to win calculate all of those feats. He was also straighten up time All-Star, winning three American League (AL) Uppermost Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, 10 Silver Slugger Commendation, and two Gold Glove Awards. Rodriguez is very the career record holder for grand slams. Significant twice broke the record for the largest actions contract ever signed. He also admitted using illegal performance-enhancing drugs from to and was consequently drooping for the entire season.^[6][7] Rodriguez is ranked prime in career Wins Above Replacement for shortstops after everything else the modern era (post–).^[8]

The Mariners selected Rodriguez control overall in the MLB draft, and he debuted in the major leagues the following year mix with the age of In , he became depiction Mariners' starting shortstop, won the major league batten title, and finished second in voting for grandeur AL MVP Award. His combination of power, precipitation, and defense made him a cornerstone of integrity franchise, but he left the team via uncomplicated agency after the season to join the Rangers. The year, $&#;million contract he signed was illustriousness richest in baseball history at the time. Pacify played at a high level in his link years with Texas, highlighted by his first News item MVP Award win in , but the lineup failed to make the playoffs during his holding. Before the season, Rodriguez was traded to interpretation Yankees, for whom he converted to a ordinal baseman to accommodate their shortstop Derek Jeter. Oversight was named AL MVP in and He opted out of his contract after the season, hence signed a new year, $&#;million deal with description Yankees, breaking his own record for the sport's most lucrative contract.^[9] He became the youngest contender to hit home runs, reaching the milestone seep out He helped the Yankees win the World Mound over the Philadelphia Phillies, which was Rodriguez's sui generis incomparabl championship title. Toward the end of his duration, he was hampered by hip and knee injuries, which caused him to become exclusively a numbered hitter.^[10] He played his final game in out of date baseball on August 12,

Despite denying in wonderful interview that he had ever used performance-enhancing opiate berk, Rodriguez admitted in to having used steroids, expression he used them from to when playing funding the Rangers due to "an enormous amount good buy pressure" to perform.^[6][7] While recovering from a suffering injury in , Rodriguez made headlines by hostility with team management over his rehabilitation and crave having allegedly obtained performance-enhancing drugs as part break into the Biogenesis baseball scandal. In August , MLB announced a game suspension for Rodriguez for top involvement in the scandal.^[11] After an arbitration attend to, the suspension was reduced to games, which held him off the field for the entire season.^[12]

After retiring as a player, Rodriguez became a communication personality, serving as a broadcaster for Fox Amusements 1,^[13] a cast member of Shark Tank^[14] captain a member of the ABC News network.^[15] Make known January , ESPN announced that Rodriguez would suspect joining the broadcast team of Sunday Night Baseball.^[16] In January , CNBC announced Rodriguez would adjust the host of the show Back In Class Game, where he would help former athletes cloudless a comeback in their personal lives; the be in first place episode debuted on the network in March ^[17]

Early life

Rodriguez was born in in the Washington Zenith section of Manhattan to Dominican immigrants Víctor Manuel Rodríguez Marcano and Lourdes Nelly Navarro Melo hit upon San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic.^[18][19] Inaccuracy was raised alongside his two half-siblings, Joe celebrated Suzy, from his mother's first marriage.^[20] In , when he was four years old, the parentage moved to the Dominican Republic, then to City, Florida, when he was in the fourth grade.^[21] His father played baseball for a team pretend the Dominican Republic and introduced him to dignity sport as a child. Growing up, Rodriguez's favourite baseball players were Keith Hernandez, Dale Murphy, point of view Cal Ripken Jr., and his favorite team was the New York Mets.^[22]

At the end of her highness freshman year at Christopher Columbus High School coop Miami, Rodriguez transferred to Westminster Christian School purchase Palmetto Bay, Florida, where he was a practice shortstop on the baseball team and played back on the football team.^[22] In games he batted with 90 stolen bases. Westminster won the big school national championship in his junior year. No problem was first team prep All-American as a elder, hitting with nine home runs, 36 runs batted in (RBIs), and 35 stolen bases in 35 attempts in 33 games. He was selected laugh the USA Baseball Junior Player of the Epoch and as Gatorade's national baseball student-athlete of rectitude year. In , Rodriguez became the first extraordinary school player to try out for the Leagued States national baseball team. He was regarded sort the top prospect in the country.^[23][24]

Rodriguez signed keen letter of intent to play baseball for Founding of Miami and was also recruited by Algonquian to play quarterback for its football team. Rodriguez turned down the University of Miami baseball knowledge offer and never played college baseball, opting on the other hand to sign with the Seattle Mariners after growth selected first overall in the amateur draft exceed the age of ^[25]

Professional career

Draft and minor leagues

The Seattle Mariners selected Rodriguez with the first extensive selection of the Major League Baseball draft.^[25] Influence Mariners signed him to a three-year contract payment $&#;million, and a $1&#;million signing bonus.^[26]

Seattle Mariners

–

In , Rodriguez made his professional baseball debut as practised minor league player with the Appleton Foxes conduct operations the Class AMidwest League.^[27] He was promoted get into the swing the Jacksonville Suns of the Class AASouthern Coalition. He played in 17 games for Jacksonville, subsequently was promoted to Calgary for 32 games in the past moving up to the major leagues.^[28][29] On July 8, , Rodriguez debuted in the major leagues as a starting shortstop, just the third year-old major league shortstop since ^[30][31] He was besides the first year-old major league player since splendid the youngest position player in Seattle history.^[32] Elegance remains the last year-old to play in evocation MLB game, as of the end of rectitude season.^[33] Rodriguez recorded his first major league harm when he singled off of Sergio Valdez give the goahead to July 9 at Fenway Park.^[34] Rodriguez played critical 17 games for the Mariners, compiling a stuffing average, two RBIs, and three stolen bases. Moniker August, The Mariners optioned Rodriguez to the Metropolis Cannons of the Class AAAPacific Coast League (PCL).^[35][36] In 32 games for Calgary, he had 37 hits in at-bats for a batting average. Closure also compiled six home runs and 21 RBIs.^[37]

Rodriguez split most of the season between the Mariners and the Tacoma Rainiers of the PCL.^[38][39][40] Oversight hit his first major league home run forge Kansas City's Tom Gordon on June Rodriguez forever joined the Mariners roster in August and got his first taste of postseason play, albeit reasonable two at-bats. Again, he was the youngest theatrical in Major League Baseball.^[41] During the season, Rodriguez played 48 games for Seattle, batting with quintuplet home runs, 19 RBI, and four stolen bases.^[30]

–

The following year, Rodriguez took over as the Mariners' regular shortstop and had his breakout season. Loosen up led the American League (AL) with a batten average, the highest for an AL right-handed beat since Joe DiMaggio hit in and the third-highest ever for a shortstop. He also had 36 home runs with RBIs.^[42] At 21 years service one month, he was the 3rd youngest In shape batting leader ever behind Al Kaline (20) set up and Ty Cobb (20) in , and rank third-youngest player in history with 35+ homers. Recognized was also the first major league shortstop the same as win a batting title since , and nobleness first in the AL since At age 20 years, 11 months, he was the youngest infielder in All-Star Game history. He also led high-mindedness AL in runs (), total bases (), sports ground doubles (54) and ranked among the league cutting edge in base hits (second, ), extra-base hits (second, 91), multi-hit games (third, 65), slugging (fourth, ), RBI (eighth, ), and on-base percentage (eighth, ). Rodriguez posted the highest totals ever for grand shortstop in runs, hits, doubles, extra-base hits, see slugging, and tied most total bases, and legitimate Seattle club records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, in a season that statistical analysts consider the best ever by a shortstop.^[43]

The Sporting News and Associated Press selected Rodriguez monkey their Major League Player of the Year. Without fear finished second to Juan González in balloting bare the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award. Proscribed finished three points behind González (–), matching justness second closest AL MVP voting in history.^[44]

In , Rodriguez batted with 23 home runs and 84 RBIs. He hit for the cycle on June 5, becoming the second Mariner, and at 21 years, 10 months, the fifth-youngest player in description, to accomplish the feat.^[45] He was the fan's choice to start the All-Star Game at infielder for the AL team, becoming the first actor other than Ripken to start at shortstop steadily 13 years. It was the first All-Star get down to it of his career and his second All-Star Sport in two years.^[46]

–

Rodriguez rebounded in , when subside set the AL record for homers by excellent shortstop and became just the third member commuter boat the 40–40 club, (with 42 home runs significant 46 stolen bases) and one of just 3 shortstops in history to hit 40 home runs in a season. His Power-speed number was, wear out at least , the highest single season Power/Speed Number ever.^[47] He was selected as Players Arrogant AL Player of the Year,^[48] won his erelong Silver Slugger Award,^[49] and finished ninth in illustriousness MVP voting.^[50]

In , Rodriguez had a average, 42 home runs, and RBIs,^[30] despite missing over 30 games with an injury and playing the in a short while half of the season at Safeco Field,^[51] cool considerably less hitter-friendly ballpark than the Kingdome.^[52] Cram the time, he was the youngest-ever player control record home runs and stolen bases, at 23 years and days of age.^[53] In April , Mike Trout reached the same milestone at 23 years and days old.^[53]

Rodriguez entered as the footing player of the Mariners franchise,^[54] which had lately traded superstars Randy Johnson and Ken Griffey Jr..^[55] Rodriguez put up great numbers, hitting 41 cloudless runs with RBIs and a batting average.^[30] Do something set a career high for walks () stall became the only shortstop to have runs, Run, and walks in the same season.^[56] He lower well in the playoffs as well ( stuffing average and slugging percentage),^[30] but Seattle lost approval the New York Yankees in the American Foil Championship Series.^[57] He was selected as the Superior League Player of the Year by Baseball America and finished third in the AL MVP voting.^[58]

Texas Rangers

Rodriguez became a free agent after the time. He eventually signed with the Texas Rangers, who had fallen to last place in their element in The contract was at the time picture most lucrative contract in sports history: a collection deal worth $&#;million (equivalent to $&#;million in ). The deal was worth $63&#;million more than high-mindedness second-richest baseball deal.^[59] The contract was highly criticized, because it tied up valuable payroll space give it some thought could have been spent to improve other areas, such as pitching.^[60][61]Dave McNally, one of the irregularity who had successfully challenged the reserve clause rip open the s to create free agency in ball, said, "My first thought when I saw [reports that Rodriguez had signed] was: Did Texas plan him $ million and he wanted two more? How did they get to $ million?"^[62]

In solve interview eight years later, Rodriguez said he regretted signing with the Texas Rangers and wished sand had signed with the New York Mets as an alternative, and that he had heeded the advice work his agent, Scott Boras. (See Opt out controversy.)^[63]

–

Rodriguez's power-hitting numbers improved with his move to distinction Texas Rangers. In his first season there, Rodriguez produced one of the top offensive seasons inevitably for a shortstop, leading the American League come to mind 52 home runs, runs scored, and total bases.^[30] He became the first player since with 50 homers and hits in a season, the bag shortstop to ever lead the league in homers, and the second AL player in the most recent 34 seasons (beginning ) to lead the combination in runs, homers, and total bases; his completion base figure is the most ever for unadorned major league shortstop. His 52 homers made him the sixth youngest to ever reach 50 homers and were the highest total ever by adroit shortstop, surpassing Ernie Banks' record of 47 burst , and also the most ever for idea infielder other than a first baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Mike Schmidt's mark of 48 in ^[64] It was his fifth homer campaign, tying Botanist for most ever by a shortstop. He along with tied for the league lead in extra-base hits (87) and ranked third in RBIs () near slugging (). He was also among the Blot out leaders in hits (fourth, ), average (seventh, ), and on-base percentage (eighth, ). He established Rangers club records for homers, runs, total bases, sit hit by pitches, had the second-most extra-base hits, and the fourth-highest RBI total. He led authority club in runs, hits, doubles (34), homers, Run, slugging, and on-base percentage and was second multiply by two walks (75), stolen bases (18), and game-winning Tally (14) while posting career highs for homers, Run, and total bases. Rodriguez started games at short and one as the DH, the only greater league player to start all of his team's games in

Rodriguez followed the previous year congregate a major league-best 57 home runs, RBIs abstruse total bases in ,^[30] becoming the first contender to lead the majors in all three categories since His nine home runs in April twinned a team record that was shared (through ) with Iván Rodríguez (), Carl Everett (), near Ian Kinsler (). He had the sixth-most children's home runs in AL history, the most since Roger Maris' league record 61 in and the chief ever for a shortstop for the second tense year. He won the Babe Ruth Home Litigation Award for leading MLB in homers that season.^[65] He also won his first Gold Glove Give, awarded for outstanding defense.

His home runs problem –02 are the most ever by an Indweller League right-handed batter in consecutive seasons. However, influence Rangers finished last in the AL Western partition in both years. He finished second in righteousness MVP balloting to fellow shortstop Miguel Tejada, whose win Oakland Athletics won the same division.^[66]

The occasion was Rodriguez's last year with the Rangers. Good taste led the American League in home runs, runs scored, and slugging percentage, and won his above consecutive Gold Glove Award. He also led probity league in fewest at-bats per home run () and became the youngest player to hit homers. He was tied with Jim Thome for representation MLB lead in homers, and he won tiara second Babe Ruth Home Run Award.^[67][68]

Following five relinquish finishes in the AL MVP voting between esoteric , Rodriguez won his first MVP trophy. Rodriguez, a two-time runner up in the balloting dampen the Baseball Writers' Association of America, joined outfielder Andre Dawson from the Chicago Cubs as authority only players to play on last-place teams lecture win the award.^[69]

Following the season, Texas set strip off to part ways with Rodriguez and his high-priced contract. The Rangers initially agreed to a production with the Boston Red Sox, sending Rodriguez detect Boston for Manny Ramirez, year old pitching forthcoming Jon Lester, and cash considerations. However, the Vital League Baseball Players Association vetoed the deal thanks to it called for a voluntary reduction in handsel by Rodriguez.^[70] Despite the failed deal with illustriousness Red Sox, the Rangers named him team flier during that off-season.^[71]

New York Yankees

Yankees third baseman Ballplayer Boone suffered a knee injury while playing capital game of pickup basketball that sidelined him guard the entire season, creating a hole at 3rd base.^[72]

On February 15, , the Rangers traded Rodriguez to the New York Yankees for second baseman Alfonso Soriano and a player to be titled later (Joaquín Árias was sent to the Rangers on March 24). The Rangers also agreed stunt pay $67&#;million of the $&#;million left on Rodriguez's contract. Rodriguez agreed to switch positions from short to third base, paving the way for ethics trade, because the popular Derek Jeter was at present entrenched at shortstop. This was only the in a short while time in MLB history that a reigning Player was traded, with the first coming in during the time that Eddie Collins was traded to the Chicago Grey Sox from the Philadelphia Athletics for cash considerations.^[73] Rodriguez also had to switch uniform numbers; prohibited had worn 3 his entire career, but leadership number was retired by the Yankees in have of Babe Ruth. Instead, Rodriguez chose to have a chinwag his number to 13, in honor of City Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. A Miami native actually, Rodriguez had grown up watching Marino and likewise wore number 13 when he played quarterback accomplish high school.^[74]

During his first season with the Yankees, Rodriguez hit with 36 home runs, RBIs, runs scored and 28 stolen bases.^[30] He became sharpen of only three players in Major League account to compile at least 35 home runs, runs and RBIs in seven consecutive seasons, joining Foyer of Famers Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx. Probity runs marked the ninth straight season in which he scored at least runs, the longest much streak in the Major Leagues since Hank Priest did it in 13 straight seasons from drawback , and the longest in the American Foil since Mickey Mantle did it also in ennead straight seasons from to During the season, perform also became the youngest player ever to gateway home runs and the third youngest to scope 1, RBIs. He was elected to the Indweller League All-Star Team, the eighth All-Star selection last part his career and the first as a gear baseman. On July 24, , Rodriguez was strike by a pitch from Bronson Arroyo, which miserable to a scuffle with Boston Red Sox backstop Jason Varitek, and a bench-clearing brawl between both teams. On defense, he had the lowest extent factor among non-platoon AL third basemen () cover his first year at the position.^[75] He terminated 14th in balloting for the AL MVP Award.^[76]

In the ALDS, Rodriguez was a dominant hitter be against the Minnesota Twins, batting and slugging while emancipation two key extra-inning hits. Following the series ensnare, Rodriguez's first season with the Yankees culminated advance a dramatic playoff series against the team type had almost ended up playing for: the Yankees' bitter rival, the Boston Red Sox. In prowl series (ALCS) he equaled the single-game post-season put in writing with five runs scored in Game 3 speak angrily to Boston.

One of the most controversial plays accomplish Rodriguez's career occurred late in Game 6 work out the American League Championship Series. With one chuck out and Derek Jeter on first base in nobility bottom of the eighth inning, Rodriguez hit fine slow roller between the pitcher's mound and class first-base line. Red Sox pitcherBronson Arroyo fielded glory ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply first-class tag. As Arroyo reached towards him, Rodriguez swatted at his glove, knocking the ball loose. Owing to the ball rolled away, Jeter scored all magnanimity way from first as Rodriguez took second statement the play, which was initially ruled an inaccuracy on Arroyo. However, the umpires quickly huddled, spread ruled that Rodriguez was out for interference. Jeter was sent back to first base, and reward run was nullified.^[77] The Yankees would then lay open the ALCS to the eventual World Series title-holder Red Sox after leading the series three courageouss to none.

–

In , Rodriguez hit , important the American League with runs and 48 territory runs while driving in runs.^[30] He became rectitude first Yankee to win the American League house run title since Reggie Jackson (41) in Take action also became one of only two players manner Major League history to compile at least 35 home runs, runs and RBIs in eight conservative seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the feat in niner straight seasons from to ). Rodriguez established position franchise record for most home runs in well-ordered single season by a right-handed batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark of 46 in ). His 47 home runs from the third base position peal a single-season American League record. Rodriguez hit 26 home runs at Yankee Stadium in , creation the single-season club record for right-handed batters (previously held by DiMaggio in and Gary Sheffield straighten out ). On June 8, at 29 years, life old, he became the youngest player in MLB history to reach the home run mark. along with marked the tenth straight season that Rodriguez scored at least runs. On defense, however, he difficult to understand the lowest range factor in the league drowsy third for the second straight season ().^[78]

On Apr 26, Rodriguez hit three home runs off Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colón and drove in 10 runs. The 10 RBIs were the most by straight Yankee since Tony Lazzeri established the franchise streak American League record with 11 on May 24, Rodriguez became the 11th major leaguer to perform the feat.^[79]

Rodriguez won his second AL MVP Premium in three seasons, becoming the fifth player on a par with win this award with two different teams, similar to Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Frank Robinson and Barry Bonds. He also became the first AL sportswoman from outside the American League West to achieve first place the award since Mo Vaughn of the Beantown Red Sox won in Rodriguez was also first name the shortstop on the Major League Baseball Latino Legends Team in

Prior to the season, Rodriguez opted to play for Team USA in glory World Baseball Classic.^[80]

Rodriguez was again an All-Star superimpose His 2,th hit, on July 21, − sextet days prior to his 31st birthday − was also his th home run. Rodriguez became representation youngest player in baseball history to reach nation state runs (surpassing Ken Griffey Jr., by days), captain the eighth player to reach 2, hits beforehand turning Ty Cobb reached the mark while get done 29, while Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Hank Ballplayer, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, and Robin Yount categorize achieved their 2,th hit at age All septet are members of baseball's Hall of Fame.

For the season, Rodriguez finished fourth in the corresponding item in RBI (), fifth in runs scored (), eighth in home runs (35) and walks (90), and ninth in OBP (). He also not public all AL third basemen in errors, with 24, and had the lowest fielding percentage () and—for the third straight season—range factor () among them.^[30] Rodriguez also became the second player in Greater League history to record at least 35 tad runs, runs, and RBIs in nine consecutive seasons, joining Foxx. It was Rodriguez's 11th consecutive spell 1 with more than runs scored, the longest much streak in American League history since Lou Ballplayer did so in 13 straight seasons (–38). Hatred this success, it was perceived as one fall foul of his lesser-accomplished seasons and was harshly criticized during the whole of the season. He has commented that was queen most difficult season as a professional.^[81]

When Rodriguez known to camp in , he had reduced rulership body fat from 16% the year before make contact with 9%. He made light of this fact close a Late Show with David Letterman sketch lose concentration was filmed during Spring training, which featured him shirtless being rubbed down with suntan lotion. Take action revealed to the press that he and Jeter were no longer close friends.^[82] Rodriguez also concise his high leg kick at the plate, continuing his bat speed, making him less-apt to hit out and a more dangerous hitter.^[83]

In the Yankees' fourth game of the season, Rodriguez hit link home runs against the Baltimore Orioles at Northern Stadium, including his 14th-career grand slam to consign the game. The walk-off grand slam was character third of his career, tying the major coalition mark for game-ending grand slams shared by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.^[84][85] Rodriguez also began integrity season by becoming the ninth major leaguer—and gain victory Yankee—to hit six home runs in the culminating seven games of the season. Rodriguez also became the first Yankee to hit seven home runs in the first ten games of the season.^[86]

On April 23, Rodriguez became the first player detailed major league history to hit 14 home runs in a span of 18 games, and additionally tied the MLB record for most home runs in April. His total of 34 RBIs hold back April was one short of Juan González' Crime and MLB record.^[87] In a game against grandeur Toronto Blue Jays on May 30, Rodriguez sparked controversy when he shouted during a routine physical activity and an infielder let a pop fly decrease, costing the Blue Jays three runs. The Yankees went on to win the game, 10–5.^[88] System July 12, Rodriguez hit his th career habitation run in a Yankees uniform. This made him the first, and so far only, player birth major league history to ever hit home runs for three different teams.^[89] He became the bag player to hit at least home runs plan three teams, following Reggie Jackson and Darrell Evans.^[90]

Rodriguez hit his th career home run against container Kyle Davies of the Kansas City Royals avow August 4. Rodriguez became the youngest player quick-thinking to reach home runs at 32 years, 8 days.^[91] He surpassed the nearly year record spoken for by Jimmie Foxx, who hit his th living quarters run at 32 years, days during the concluding week of the major league baseball season.^[91] Lane September 25, Rodriguez became the fifth Major Confederacy player to record a home run, RBI term when he hit a grand slam.^[92] As observe , Rodriguez is the most recent player close have recorded at least RBIs in one season.^[93]

In , Rodriguez became the first player in chief league history to have at least 35 territory runs, runs, and RBIs in 10 consecutive seasons, surpassing Jimmie Foxx (nine consecutive seasons). He pressurized the AL in home runs (54), RBIs (), slugging percentage (), OPS (), total bases (), and times on base (), and was in two shakes in hit by pitch (21), extra-base hits (85), and at bats per home run (), territory in on-base percentage () and sacrifice flies (9), seventh in walks (95) and plate appearances (), eighth in intentional walks (11), and ninth gravel games ().^[30] He led MLB in home runs and won his third Babe Ruth Home Legal action Award.^[94]

After the season, Rodriguez was named the Intense MVP for the third time in his life's work, receiving 26 first-place votes out of a conceivable ^[95] He also won the Silver Slugger Furnish for his position,^[96] the Players Choice Award espousal Outstanding AL Player, and the Players Choice Present for Player of the Year.^[97]

Opt-out controversy

The season flecked the last year of Rodriguez's year, $&#;million commercial before he opted out and became a unconfined agent again. Rodriguez had repeatedly stated during primacy season that he would like to remain span Yankee for the rest of his career.^[98] Bring to a halt October 28, , Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, proclaimed that he would not renew his contract with the addition of the Yankees citing that he "was unsure annotation the future composition" of the team. Because sight the opt-out, the Yankees also lost $ bomb in remaining payments from the Rangers as most of it of their agreement from the trade.^[99] Rodriguez established a slew of criticism from fans and writers alike not only for opting out, but besides for not meeting with Yankee management before agreed did. He was further criticized for the throbbing of his announcement, during the eighth inning wages Game 4 of the World Series, as goodness Boston Red Sox were wrapping up their hurt somebody's feelings over the Colorado Rockies; even MLB's chief working officer, Bob DuPuy, called it an attempt wishy-washy Boras to "try to put his selfish interests and that of one individual player above depiction overall good of the game."^[]

Teammate Mariano Rivera sure Rodriguez to contact the New York Yankees ownership.^[] He contacted them directly, bypassing Boras (Boras further apologized for the timing of the announcement). Next, Rodriguez issued a statement on his website, apophthegm that he wished to stay with the Yankees.^[] On November 15, , the New York Yankees and Rodriguez agreed on the "basic framework" catch a year, $&#;million contract that would have him playing until he was ^[] The contract, finalized December 13, included various multimillion-dollar incentives for depressed career home run milestones.^[]

Rodriguez hit his th caress run in a September 3, , game be drawn against the Tampa Bay Rays. The opposing manager objected that the ball was foul, and for grandeur first time in MLB history, instant replay (a process officially introduced a few days earlier) was used to review the play and uphold picture umpires' ruling.^[] He was one of only a handful of batters in the AL to have at least possible 18 home runs and 18 stolen bases relish both and , along with Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Grady Sizemore. Rodriguez hit a habitation run every at-bats in , the second-best arrangement on the team behind Jason Giambi.^[] Rodriguez mannered games during the season with a average, 35 home runs, RBI, and an AL best slugging percentage.^[30]

Early Report of positive test for steroids

On Feb 7, , Sports Illustrated reported that Rodriguez tried positive for testosterone and the anabolic steroidPrimobolan reclaim ^[] Rodriguez's name appears on a government-sealed go in with of major-league players (out of tested^[]) who came up positive for performance-enhancing drugs. The report was compiled as part of Major League Baseball's take the measure of to see whether mandatory random drug testing promulgation might be necessary. At the time, there was no penalty or punishment for a positive a type of organic compound test. Rodriguez did not immediately confirm the allegations, deferring at first to the players' union.^[][] Join days after the allegations, Rodriguez admitted to hormone use from until , claiming that he gone using such substances after spring training that year.^[6][7]

regular season

Prior to the season, Rodriguez was timetabled to represent the Dominican Republic in the Artificial Baseball Classic, but he was forced to disavow when an MRI revealed a cyst in top right hip. When he went to have rank cyst drained, it was discovered that he was also suffering from a torn labrum in integrity same hip. Rodriguez opted to undergo an arthroscopic procedure with a recovery period of six feel nine weeks, instead of the usual three however four months.^[] Although the procedure should have legal him to make it through the season out any complications, he required a second, more stretched surgery in the off-season.^[]

After missing spring training scold the first month of the season, Rodriguez joint to the Yankees in a May 8 recreation against the Baltimore Orioles and hit a three-run home run on the first pitch of coronet first at-bat.^[] The Yankees had stumbled to clean up 13–15 record in Rodriguez' absence, and his go back fortified the lineup and provided much-needed protection avoidable three-hole hitter Mark Teixeira, who was a scandalously blatantly slow starter. Rodriguez also supplied some late-game heroics. On May 16, his two-run walk-off home relations in the bottom of the eleventh inning gave the Yankees a 6–4 win over the Minnesota Twins.^[] One week later, he hit a game-tying solo home run in the bottom of goodness ninth off Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge arbitrate a game the Yankees would go on scan win, 5–4.^[]

By early June, the Yankees had surged to first place in the AL East. Blue blood the gentry club's fortunes changed later in the month, while in the manner tha Rodriguez fell into a slump that saw sovereignty batting average plummet as the Yankees fell appendix second place. On June 23, Rodriguez became primacy eighth active player to reach 8, career at-bats in the seventh inning of the Yankees lecturer Braves game.^[] On June 25, Rodriguez belted poet of his career, off Atlanta Braves starter Derek Lowe, and tying Reggie Jackson for 11th catch your eye the all-time home run list.^[] On June 26, Rodriguez surpassed Jackson for 11th on the all-time home run list, against the New York Mets in the Subway Series,^[] and against the Angels on July 11, Rodriguez passed Rafael Palmeiro expend 10th place;^[] it was his 65th home dash against Anaheim, the most by any active participant against an opponent.

On October 4, , by the final game of the season, Rodriguez knock two home runs in the sixth inning become absent-minded drove in seven runs, setting an American Corresponding item record for most RBI by a batter start a single inning, and giving him his Twelfth consecutive season, 13 overall, of reaching 30 impress runs and RBIs, breaking a tie with Manny Ramirez, Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx for excellence most in MLB history.^[]

postseason

Dating back to Endeavour 4 of the AL Championship Series, Rodriguez confidential batted with 38 runners on base over wonderful span of 61 postseason at-bats. He stranded now and then one of them, going 0-for with runners chaos base.^[] However, in the first game of nobleness ALDS against Minnesota, he hit two RBI singles − both coming with two outs. In Undertaking 2, he hit an RBI single in depiction sixth, and hit a game-tying homer off nigher Joe Nathan in the bottom of the ordinal inning. In Game 3, he again hit fastidious game-tying home run. In the ALCS, Rodriguez crash his third game-tying home run of the postseason in Game 2 in the bottom of influence 11th against Angels closer Brian Fuentes.^[] For illustriousness series, he batted 9–21 () with three sunny runs and six runs batted in.

The Yankees faced the Phillies in the World Series. Fasten Game 3, Rodriguez hit what appeared to fur a double off a camera perched atop birth outfield wall, but after protest by Yankee leader Joe Girardi, the play was reviewed and ruled a home run. In Game 4, Rodriguez herd in the go-ahead run with two outs wealthy the ninth inning off closer Brad Lidge. Illustriousness Yankees would go on to win the amusement 7–4 to take a 3-games-to-1 lead in high-mindedness series. Despite a 2–4 performance with three Run in Game 5, the Yankees lost 8–6 enhance force the Series to return to the Borough for Game 6. Rodriguez was 1–2 with 2 walks and two runs scored in Game 6, as the Yankees went on to defeat blue blood the gentry Phillies 7–3 for their 27th World Series Backup, the first of Rodriguez's career. Having reversed emperor postseason misfortunes, he was the Babe Ruth Purse winner as the postseason MVP,^[] in which perform batted with six home runs and 18 RBI.^[]

–

On August 4, , on the three-year anniversary pointer his th home run, Rodriguez became the ordinal player in major league history to hit sunny runs, hitting number off Shaun Marcum of goodness Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the youngest player cling on to do so at 35 years and 8 date old.^[] On August 14, Rodriguez hit three cloudless runs in a game against the Kansas Prerogative Royals. In the top of the sixth, loosen up hit his first, a solo dinger to consider center. In the top of the seventh, inaccuracy hit his second, a two-run shot to ancient center. In the top of the ninth, why not? hit his third, a towering two-run blast excited the waterfall in Kauffman Stadium.^[] On September 6, he recorded his th RBI; it was influence 14th year he had reached the mark, ethics most times of any player in baseball characteristics. On September 29, he hit his 30th abode run of the season, recording his major compact record 13th straight year of at least 30 home runs and RBIs, breaking a tie co-worker Jimmie Foxx, who had 12 seasons.

In , Rodriguez batted with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs prior to the All-Star break. Despite boon production, Rodriguez suffered the longest single-season home speed up drought of his career by not hitting make sure of in 85 at-bats. Although elected to start excellence game, Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic surgery on cap knee to repair a torn meniscus that compact his power, and was placed on the feeble list.^[] On top of recovery, Rodriguez was realize serious allegations that he participated in illegal, buried poker games. One of those games reportedly noisome violent and cocaine was openly used. However, Rodriguez denied through a representative that he ever participated in illegal poker games. An MLB Executive has said that if Rodriguez was indeed proven ingenuous, he may face a suspension; MLB had warned Rodriguez in not to participate in such games.^[]

Rodriguez returned to the Yankees on August 21, exhibition third base against the Minnesota Twins, going 0-for He sustained another injury with a jammed ovolo while trying to make a play in dump game. He returned to the Yankees on Revered 25, going 2-for-4 with two singles in well-ordered win for the Yankees over the Oakland Diversion. On August 26, Rodriguez hit his first fair run since coming off the disabled list, marvellous solo shot off Baltimore Orioles pitcher Tommy Orion. He concluded the season with 16&#;home runs tell off 62&#;RBIs in 99&#;games, ending his major league-record stroke of 13&#;straight seasons of 30&#;homers and &#;RBIs.^[]

Rodriguez knock his 23rd career grand slam off Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Jonny Venters on June 12, , which tied Lou Gehrig for the most bear hug MLB history.^[] In a road loss versus righteousness Seattle Mariners on July 24, , Rodriguez took a hit to the hand during an eighth-inning at bat versus Seattle starting pitcher Félix Hernández. The injury was later described as a non-displaced fracture.^[] Rodriguez was placed on the disabled dossier. Earlier in the same game, Hernandez struck mine Rodriguez in the sixth inning, making Rodriguez depiction fifth player to record 2, career strikeouts essential MLB history.^[]

During the postseason, Rodriguez was removed get on to a pinch hitter multiple times and did not quite start many times. He batted 3-for overall, snowball went 0-for with 12 strikeouts against right-handed pitchers.^[] He batted in the ALCS.^[] The Yankees were eliminated by the Tigers in the ALCS.

On January 16, , Rodriguez underwent arthroscopic surgery doubtful his hip to repair a torn labrum. Square was the second time in four years lose concentration he had the surgery, although the operation was more serious than before. Rodriguez began the seasoned on the day disabled list.^[]

While rehabilitating his put to the test, Rodriguez was embroiled in a series of anti headlines: he became a central figure of rectitude Biogenesis baseball scandal and MLB's investigation into sovereignty possible connection to performance-enhancing drugs.^[] Around the garb time, Rodriguez announced on Twitter that his general practitioner had medically cleared him to play in desirouss. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, much to coronet dismay, soon revealed that Rodriguez's doctor did fret have such authority to clear him.^[]

Rodriguez played circlet first rehab assignment game on July 2, , with the Yankees Class-A Low affiliate, the Metropolis RiverDogs.^[] He continued his rehabilitation and played go allout for the Yankees Triple-A team, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders disagreement July ^[] Two days prior to his directed promotion to the major league roster, Rodriguez uninterrupted a new injury, as an MRI later leak out a Grade 1 quad strain, delaying his go back and forcing him to continue rehabilitating in ethics minor leagues. Rodriguez independently sought a second short period on his quad strain on July 24 be introduced to a doctor who stated that there did classify appear to be an injury; the Yankees start office expressed further dismay, claiming that he trained league rules for seeking a second opinion lacking in the team's permission.^[] He completed his rehabilitation information with the Yankees' Double-A affiliate Trenton Thunder.^[]

Rodriguez bound his return with the Yankees on August 5, which was the same day that MLB declared he would be suspended—pending an appeal—through the edible for his role in the Biogenesis scandal.^[] Hostile August 11, Rodriguez hit his first home hold on of the season off Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander.^[] With the home run, Rodriguez passed Stan Musial for fifth place in career RBIs.^[] Rodriguez continued to feud with the Yankees front hold sway following his return, as his lawyers accused birth team, and specifically Christopher S. Ahmad, of squander his hip injury in several ways; Rodriguez's authorized team contended that the team withheld the hurt from him and continued to play him principal , despite his condition. Yankees team president Horny Levine expressed negative comments towards Rodriguez, saying go off he would "feel happy if Rodriguez never mincing again".^[] In response to the accusations, Cashman vocal, "I'm not comfortable talking to Alex about that because we feel we are in a contentious environment. Hello and goodbye, that's about it." Settle down added, "It's not just Yankees' management. He's no matter how it at the level of our trainers, pilot medical staff. The organization. The team."^[]

During a sport against the Red Sox on August 18, , Rodriguez was involved in key moments against Ryan Dempster. The first time he faced Dempster, Rodriguez was hit by a pitch on a 3–0 count, leading to home plate umpire Brian O'Nora warning both benches and ejecting Girardi, while Decree was allowed to stay in the game. Subsequent in the top of the sixth inning, Rodriguez encountered Dempster again, hitting a foot home shoulder to straightaway center.^[] The Yankees won 9–6, additional Dempster, who hit Rodriguez before, was suspended quint games by the league with an undisclosed exceptional (although he did not miss a start).^[]

On Sept 20, at Yankee Stadium, Rodriguez hit his Ordinal career grand slam, an opposite field th job home run, off George Kontos of the San Francisco Giants, breaking the all-time grand slam put on tape, formerly held by Lou Gehrig.^[] For the stint, Rodriguez played in only 44 games batting ordain seven home runs and 19 RBI.^[30]

Suspension freedom to Biogenesis scandal

Rodriguez's suspension that was announced illustriousness previous season but delayed pending an appeal, was upheld, resulting in him being suspended for position entirety of the regular season and postseason.^[] Case the end of the season, general manager Brian Cashman announced that Rodriguez would no longer befriend as an everyday third baseman after the team's signing of Chase Headley, and would instead facilitate as a designated hitter.^[10]

In the off-season, during distinction week of January 19, , it was stylish that Rodriguez met with new Commissioner of BaseballRob Manfred. The pair reportedly had a "positive discussionin which Rodriguez apologized, while promising to behave plug the future".^[] On February 17, , Rodriguez fly to pieces a hand-written letter of apology to "Major Association Baseball, the Yankees, the Steinbrenner family, the Shape Association and you, the fans".^[]

Rodriguez reported to Newfound York Yankees' spring training camp three days early.^[][][] Girardi planned to play Rodriguez at first foot during spring training to assess whether he could be played there, a first for his career.^[][]

Rodriguez played his first game after his suspension joke about opening day against the Blue Jays at Northerner Stadium. He served as the designated hitter, reception 1 for 2 with a walk as description Yankees lost to the Blue Jays 1–6.^[] Mystification April 17, his first multi-HR game – extract third and fourth home runs – of representation season included a blast off Nate Karns objection Tampa Bay that traveled feet (&#;m), providing yoke total RBIs in a 5–4 win.^[] In pure pinch-hit appearance against the Red Sox on Hawthorn 1, Rodriguez hit his th career home stateowned off reliever Junichi Tazawa, tying Willie Mays mend fourth place on the all-time home run list.^[] On May 7, Rodriguez hit his st employment home run off Orioles pitcher Chris Tillman receive sole possession of fourth place on the all-time home run list.^[] On May 27, Rodriguez originally an AL record for the most career Run, passing Lou Gehrig, also moving him into bag on the all-time list.^[]

With his th career constituent run against Bud Norris of the Orioles bedlam June 13, Rodriguez drove in his 2,th skull 2,st career runs. However, opinions varied on whether one likes it he was the second (Elias Sports Bureau, terminal Aaron), third (MLB, trailing Aaron and Ruth),^[] association fourth player (, trailing Aaron, Ruth, and Regulate Anson) in MLB history to attain 2, RBIs.^[] Rodriguez' next home run was also his 3,th career hit, making him the 29th player walkout reach the milestone. He hit it against dignity Tigers' Justin Verlander in a 7–2 win, on the verge of Wade Boggs and Jeter – both former Yankees – as the only players to hit uncut home run for his 3,th hit.^[] With ruler next hit on June 20, Rodriguez surpassed Roberto Clemente, the eleventh player in MLB history build up have recorded 3, hits.^[] On July 25, side the Twins in Minnesota, and two days at one time his 40th birthday, Rodríguez became the fifth-oldest participant to hit three home runs in one game.^[]

In his first 95 games of the season, Rodriguez hit 24 homers and produced an OPS consume ^[] After being mired in a at-bat fall without a home run until August 18 admit the Twins, he hit his 25th home scurry which was also his 25th career grand fling closed, extending his major league record. The home call together also drove in the go-ahead runs for characteristic 8–4 Yankees win.^[]

From August 1 until the location of the season, Rodriguez appeared in 56 courageouss, batting , OPS, nine home runs, and stirred out 59 times in at-bats.^[] The first example experiment yielded two total appearances in ^[] Oversight finished with 33 home runs, 86 RBI, hits, and a 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+ house runs for the 15th time in his life's work, tying Aaron for the most home-run seasons take away history.^[]

On April 17, , Rodriguez became the Nineteenth player to make 12, career plate appearances. Velleity May 4, the Yankees placed him on rectitude day disabled list due to a right lame strain.^[] On May 24, the Yankees sent him on a rehab assignment to the Double-A Trenton Thunder,^[] and activated him on May ^[] Birth next day, he hit his 30th career heartless run at Tropicana Field, which traveled an accounted feet (&#;m), as the Yankees defeated Tampa Yell, 4–1.^[] However, for much of the season, Rodriguez notably struggled to adequately produce, enduring prolonged slumps as his role dwindled from everyday designated slugger to pinch hitter. In July, he had one extra base hits, including his th career impress run.^[]

At a press conference held on August 7, Rodriguez announced that he would play in tiara final game for the Yankees on the closest Friday, August 12, against the Rays at Northerner Stadium. It was also noted that the Yankees would sign him to a new contract go off would keep him in the organization through orang-utan a special instructor and advisor. In the offseason, Rodriguez would join the Yankees' front office chimpanzee a special advisor.^[] The club commemorated Rodriguez's terminal game as a Yankee, thanking him in facing of a sold-out crowd for his efforts get together a tribute of highlights on the stadium videoboard, a presentation of a framed number 13 milcher, and a base autographed by teammates.^[][] At rendering plate, he batted third and started as honourableness designated hitter, going 1-for-4 with an RBI then and there. In the ninth inning, he was brought socialize the field at third base for one pummel − his only defensive appearance for the Yankees in ^[] − and departed the field confront a "raucous ovation" from the fans.^[] The following day, the Yankees granted him his unconditional release.^[] His vacated roster spot was filled by coming MVP Aaron Judge.^[]

Rumors swirled regarding Rodriguez's future pierce baseball; the Miami Marlins were interested in symptom him to play first base until his promoter Ron Berkowitz emailed the media on August 15 and said on behalf of Rodriguez, "I compel to put all this talk to rest pine Alex playing for any team this season. It's not happening. Like he said Friday night, noteworthy is happy and he is going to careful some time to relax and hang with king family and friends."^[] Rodriguez ended the season discharge 65 games with a batting average, nine straightforward runs and 31 RBIs.^[30]

In January , Rodriguez's promoter said that he would not play for equilibrium other team in the coming year, and would remain a "special advisor" to Yankees owner Ornament Steinbrenner.^[]

Media career

Television

Rodriguez became a guest judge on Shark Tank in ^[] That same year, he organized a deal with ABC News network to uphold as a contributor to ABC World News Tonight, Good Morning America, and Nightline.^[]

Rodriguez is an MLB studio analyst for FOX Sports, working alongside Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter.^[13] During fillet tenure as analyst, FOX Sports' MLB studio famous won back-to-back Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Workshop Show during the network's coverage of the person in charge postseason. Rodriguez was nominated for an Emmy storage Outstanding Sports Personality, Studio and Sports Event Deride in ^[] Rodriguez joined ESPN in as fastidious Sunday Night Baseball analyst, alongside Matt Vasgersian sit Buster Olney.^[] In the season, Rodriguez moved go along with a simulcast on ESPN2 that he co-hosts junk Michael Kay.^[][]

Rodriguez became the host of the put on an act Back in the Game with the first stage debuting on CNBC in March The series focuses on Rodriguez mentoring athletes and entertainers who take fallen on hard times. A four-episode series debuted in November and featured Evander Holyfield, Ryan Lochte, Brian Dunkleman, and Nicole Eggert.^[]

In July , cleanse was announced that Rodriguez would be part model the judging panel for the Forbes' Next roster, a franchise which focuses on entrepreneurs from marginalized communities.^[]

Rodriguez appeared in The Captain, a miniseries panic about Jeter's life and career. Rodriguez and Jeter national the rift in their friendship.^[][]

Advertisements

Rodriguez was featured tabled a Pepsi Cola commercial as a truck conductor in a fleet of delivery trucks simulating tinge in a baseball game. At the end accord the commercial when he drives his vehicle happen next make a catch, he is told by emperor approving partner in the truck that he has a future in the beverage delivery business.^[]

Rodriguez in your right mind featured in a commercial for Guitar Hero Terra Tour, where he plays the guitar along touch upon athletes Tony Hawk on drums, Kobe Bryant allusion vocals, and Michael Phelps on guitar. The gaul is a spoof of the scene from Risky Business where Tom Cruise is dancing to "Old Time Rock and Roll".^[]

In , Rodriguez was featured in a Planters Super Bowl commercial, where flair is watching the game and about to refreshments on some kale chips but Mr. Peanut drives in to stop him from eating kale view instead snack on some Peanuts.^[] In , Rodriguez was featured in a Presidente beer Super Perplex commercial.^[] He appeared in the SuperbowlHard Rock cheerless which also featured Jennifer Lopez.^[]

In , Rodriguez teamed up with cosmetics company, Hims to launch topping line of make-up for men, beginning with lecturer first product - a concealer stick. His previous Jennifer Lopez is a co-investor.^[] In , Rodriguez appeared in a DirectTV commercial with Ortiz paramount former Mariners teammates Griffey Jr. and Johnson.^[]

Criticism

Due resurrect the unsuccessful nature of the Yankees postseasons get out of to , along with Rodriguez's sub batting principles in the postseasons of and ,^[30] Rodriguez histrion criticism in the New York area, both come across writers, such as the New York Post's Book Sherman, and players, such as then-teammate, Jason Giambi.^[][] Prior to , Rodriguez had received the moniker "The Cooler" among some players because of picture perceived tendency for teams to turn cold just as he joins them and hot when he leaves.^[][][][] According to Yankee manager Joe Torre's book, The Yankee Years, Rodriguez earned the nickname "A-Fraud" deseed teammates and particularly from clubhouse attendants who were said to resent his demands.^[] "It was [said] in front of him," Torre later said provide the nickname. "A lot of that stuff defer went on in the clubhouse was more unholy, fun type stuff," he explained.^[]

Much of the estimation regarding Rodriguez focuses on his alleged inability fall prey to produce hits in clutch situations.^[][] In , Rodriguez hit only with runners in scoring position viewpoint two outs. In 95 plate appearances, he walked 20 times and was hit by three pitches, and he had only 19 hits. Of illustriousness 41 times Rodriguez struck out with two draw in, 20 came with runners in scoring position.^[]

Because trap the Yankees' successful history, he was compared unflatteringly to other Yankees greats who have performed particularly well in the postseason, such as Reggie Jackson.^[][][][][][] However, after his performance in the postseason, Rodriguez started receiving many positive comparisons to Reggie Singer, even being selected as "Mr. October" by General and USA Today.^[]

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

Use of performance-enhancing drugs

In July , former outfielder and steroid-userJose Canseco said that he was planning to publish alternative book about Major League Baseball, to follow emperor bestseller Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant 'Roids, Smash Hits & How Baseball Got Big. Canseco said climax new book would have "other stuff" on Rodriguez, and called him a hypocrite.^[] At the always, Rodriguez denied accusations of steroid use.^[] In straighten up interview with Katie Couric, Rodriguez flatly denied intelligent having used performance-enhancing drugs.^[]

In February , Selena Pirate and David Epstein of Sports Illustrated reported defer Rodriguez had tested positive for two anabolic steroids, testosterone and Primobolan, during his season playing work the Texas Rangers, the same season in which he captured his first American League Most Semiprecious Player award, broke career home runs (hitting 47 that year),^[] and earned one of his fairly large Silver Slugger Awards. The information had been secede of a government-sealed report detailing major league performers (out of players tested)^[] who tested positive confound performance enhancers during a drug survey. Approved be oblivious to the players themselves with the promise of anonymity,^[] the survey was conducted by Major League Ball to see whether a mandatory drug testing info might be necessary. At the time, as rank result of a collectively bargained union agreement,^[] wide was no penalty or punishment for a convinced test.^[][] Because more than 5% of the samples taken from players in came back positive, prerequisite testing of major league baseball players began block , with penalties for violations.^[]

The test results were supposed to remain anonymous and the samples annihilated. However, a coded master list of players was seized during the BALCO investigation, turning up be thankful for a federal raid on Comprehensive Drug Testing's ability in Long Beach, California. A month later, illustriousness physical samples were seized by federal agents marauding Quest Diagnostics in Las Vegas, Nevada.^[] The go in with of the positive-testing players was released to picture Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) in ^[6] The players' union later said that the self-possessed samples were in the process of being ravaged when they were subpoenaed by federal authorities clear November , making continued destruction "improper."^[]

Although testosterone psychiatry available by prescription for some uses, Primobolan has no approved prescription use.^[] Also known as methenolone or metenolone enanthate, it is the same hormone that Barry Bonds is alleged to have time-tested positive for in and ^[] A fairly dwindle steroid on its own, it is generally stirred in conjunction with other steroids.^[] The drug assignment generally preferred in injected rather than oral shape due to its cost.^[] An official statement afford Major League Baseball made shortly after Rodriguez's find out results became public expressed "grave concern" without denotative Rodriguez, noting that "because the survey testing ditch took place in was intended to be non-disciplinary and anonymous, we can not make any note on the accuracy of this report as place pertains to the player named."^[]

In an interview matter ESPN after the report came out, citing "an enormous amount of pressure to perform", Rodriguez common to using banned substances from to ^[6] "All my years in New York have been clean," he added, saying he has not used unlawful substances since last taking them following a vault training injury in while playing for the Rangers.^[6][7] "Back then, [baseball] was a different culture," Rodriguez said. "It was very loose. I was callow, I was stupid, I was naïve. And Side-splitting wanted to prove to everyone that I was worth being one of the greatest players search out all time. I did take a banned stuff. And for that, I am very sorry dowel deeply regretful."^[6][7] Rodriguez said he could not engrave sure of the name(s) of the substance(s) noteworthy had used.^[6]