Alex Emmanuel Rodriguez

New York Yankees — No. 13
Third base
Born: July 27, 1975 (1975-07-27) (age 31)
Bats: Right	Throws: Right
Major League Baseball debut
July 8, 1994 for the Seattle Mariners
Selected MLB statistics (through July 22, 2007)
Batting average	.306
Home runs	499
Runs batted in	1446
Hits	2180
Teams
Seattle Mariners (1994-2000) Texas Rangers (2001-2003) New York Yankees (2004-Present)

Alexander Emmanuel "Alex" Rodriguez (born July 27, 1975, in New York, New York), commonly nicknamed A-Rod, is a Dominican-American baseball infielder. He is the starting third baseman for the New York Yankees, having played shortstop for the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners. Image File history File links Metadata Size of this preview: 450 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (960 × 1280 pixel, file size: 373 KB, MIME type: image/jpeg) Taken by OneTwo1. ... The position of the third baseman A third baseman, abbreviated 3B, is the player in the sport of baseball whose responsibility is to defend the area nearest to third base, the third of four bases a baserunner must touch in a counterclockwise succession in order to score a run. ... is the 208th day of the year (209th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 1975 (MCMLXXV) was a common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... is the 189th day of the year (190th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 1994 (MCMXCIV) was a common year starting on Saturday (link will display full 1994 Gregorian calendar). ... Batting average is a statistic in both cricket and baseball measuring the performance of cricket batsmen and baseball hitters, respectively. ... Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... In baseball statistics, a run batted in (RBI) is given to a batter for each run scored as the result of a batters plate appearance. ... In Major League Baseball history, Ty Cobb had a record 4,191 hits by 1928; Pete Rose would surpass it 57 years later, and finish with 4,256 career hits. ... Major league affiliations American League (1977–present) West Division (1977–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 42 Name Seattle Mariners (1977–present) Other nicknames The Ms Ballpark Safeco Field (1999–present) King County Domed Stadium (Kingdome) (1977-1999) Major league titles World Series titles (0) none AL Pennants (0) None... The following are the events of the year 1994 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... This year in baseball: 1998 - 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 6 - Major League Baseball officials order Atlanta Braves reliever John Rocker is to undergo psychological testing following derogatory remarks he made in an interview with Sports Illustrated magazine. ... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1972–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 26, 34, 42 Name Texas Rangers (1972–present) Washington Senators (1961-1971) Other nicknames The Lone Stars Ballpark Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (1994–present) a. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2001 throughout the world. ... The following are the events of the year 2003 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... The following are the baseball events of the year 2004 throughout the world. ... is the 208th day of the year (209th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 1975 (MCMLXXV) was a common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... Midtown Manhattan, looking north from the Empire State Building, 2005 New York City (officially named the City of New York) is the most populous city in the state of New York and the entire United States. ... Major League Baseball (MLB) is the highest level of play in North American professional baseball. ... The position of the third baseman Third base redirects here. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... The position of the shortstop Shortstop, abbreviated SS, is the baseball fielding position between second and third base. ... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1972–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 26, 34, 42 Name Texas Rangers (1972–present) Washington Senators (1961-1971) Other nicknames The Lone Stars Ballpark Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (1994–present) a. ... Major league affiliations American League (1977–present) West Division (1977–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 42 Name Seattle Mariners (1977–present) Other nicknames The Ms Ballpark Safeco Field (1999–present) King County Domed Stadium (Kingdome) (1977-1999) Major league titles World Series titles (0) none AL Pennants (0) None...

Since 1996 (his first full season) through 2006 he leads the major leagues in home runs (HR), runs scored, runs batted in (RBI), total bases and extra-base hits. Of all players in baseball history at age 30, he is first all-time in both HR and runs scored, 2nd in total bases and extra base hits, 3rd in RBI, and 4th in hits. In his career to that point, Rodriguez had more HR, more RBI, more runs scored, and more base hits than all-time leaders Hank Aaron (HR and RBI), Rickey Henderson (runs scored), and Pete Rose (hits) did prior to their 30th birthdays. He also shares the MLB record (and holds the AL record) for most home runs in the month of April, hitting 14 in 2007. Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... In baseball statistics, a run batted in (RBI) is given to a batter for each run scored as the result of a batters plate appearance. ... Bengie Molina of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (in gray and red) scores a run by touching home plate after rounding all the bases. ... In baseball statistics, total bases refers to the number of bases a player has gained with hits, i. ... In baseball, an extra base hit (EB, EBH or XBH) is a statistic credited to a batter for hitting a double, triple, or home run. ... In Major League Baseball history, Ty Cobb had a record 4,191 hits by 1928; Pete Rose would surpass it 57 years later, and finish with 4,256 career hits. ... Henry Louis Hank Aaron (born February 5, 1934 in Mobile, Alabama) is a retired American baseball player and member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. ... Rickey Henley Henderson (born Rickey Nelson Henley[1] December 25, 1958), first base coach for the New York Mets, is a former Major League Baseball outfielder who is baseballs all-time leader in stolen bases[2] and runs scored. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ...

He has often been cited as the best all-around player currently in baseball.^[1] Rodriguez is also known for signing the richest contract in sports history, a 10-year, $252 million deal.^[2] A view of the playing field at Busch Memorial Stadium, St. ... The following is a list of the largest sports contracts. ...

Early life

Background

Alex Rodriguez was born in the Washington Heights section of New York City. When he was four, Rodriguez moved with his parents to their native Dominican Republic. After the family moved to Miami, Florida, three years later, Rodriguez's father announced his intention to move back north to New Jersey for a short time. He never returned, abandoning Rodriguez and his mother. Washington Heights is a New York City neighborhood in Upper Manhattan. ... New York, New York and NYC redirect here. ... Nickname: Location in Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida. ... Official language(s) English Capital Tallahassee Largest city Jacksonville Largest metro area Miami Area  Ranked 22nd  - Total 65,795[1] sq mi (170,304[1] km²)  - Width 361 miles (582 km)  - Length 447 miles (721 km)  - % water 17. ... Official language(s) English de facto Capital Trenton Largest city Newark Area  Ranked 47th  - Total 8,729 sq mi (22,608 km²)  - Width 70 miles (110 km)  - Length 150 miles (240 km)  - % water 14. ...

High school

Rodriguez was a star shortstop at Miami's Westminster Christian High School. In 100 games he batted .419 with 90 steals. Westminster went on to win the high school national championship in his junior year. He was first team prep All-American as a senior, hitting .505 with 9 homers, 36 RBI, and 35 steals in 35 tries in 33 games, and was selected as the USA Baseball Junior Player of the Year and as Gatorade's national baseball student athlete of the year. Rodriguez was the first high school player to ever try out for Team USA in 1993, and was regarded as the top prospect in the country. Coincidentally, Rodriguez's current Yankees teammate Doug Mientkiewicz played baseball with him at Westminster. Westminster Christian School is a K-12 school in Miami, Florida. ... Gatorade is a non-carbonated sports drink marketed by the Quaker Oats Company, a division of PepsiCo. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... Douglas Andrew Mientkiewicz [mint-KAY-vich] (born June 19, 1974 in Toledo, Ohio) is a first baseman for the New York Yankees. ...

Rodriguez signed a letter of intent to play baseball for the University of Miami and was also recruited by the university to play quarterback for its football team. Rodriguez turned down Miami's baseball scholarship and never played college baseball, opting instead to become eligible for the amateur draft at the age of 17. The University of Miami (also known as UM or just The U) is a private university founded in 1925 with its main campus in the city of Coral Gables in metropolitan Miami, Florida, in the United States. ...

Professional career

Seattle Mariners

Alex Rodriguez was drafted first overall by the Seattle Mariners in 1993. He was signed by Roger Jongewaard right out of high school. Rodriguez rose rapidly through the Mariners organization, and made his major league debut as the starting shortstop on July 8, 1994, in Boston at 18 years, 11 months, and 11 days of age, just the third 18-year-old major league shortstop since 1900. He was also the first 18-year-old major league player in 10 years, and the youngest position player in Seattle history. His 1st major league hit was a single off Sergio Valdez on July 9 at Fenway Park. Rodriguez's first major league campaign lasted just one month; the season was cut short by the 1994 Major League Baseball strike. While he was in the major leagues in 1994, he was the youngest player in baseball. Major league affiliations American League (1977–present) West Division (1977–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 42 Name Seattle Mariners (1977–present) Other nicknames The Ms Ballpark Safeco Field (1999–present) King County Domed Stadium (Kingdome) (1977-1999) Major league titles World Series titles (0) none AL Pennants (0) None... See also: 1992 in sports, other events of 1993, 1994 in sports and the list of years in sports. // Athletics February 11 - Irina Privalova sets a new womens 60m indoors world record August 13 - August 22 - World Championships held in Stuttgart Auto Racing Stock car racing: Dale Jarrett won... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... “Fenway” redirects here. ... The 1994 baseball strike resulted in the cancellation of the World Series for the first time in 90 years. ...

Rodriguez then split most of 1995 between the Mariners and their AAA club, the Tacoma Rainiers. He connected for his 1st major league home run off Kansas City's Tom Gordon on June 12. Rodriguez joined the major league roster permanently in August, and got his first taste of postseason play, albeit in just two at-bats. Again, he was the youngest player in baseball. See also: 1994 in sports, other events of 1995, 1996 in sports and the list of years in sports. // Auto Racing Stock car racing: Sterling Marlin won the Daytona 500 NASCAR Championship - Jeff Gordon CART racing - season championship won by Jacques Villeneuve Indianapolis 500 - Jacques Villeneuve. ... It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Minor League Baseball. ... Class-Level Triple-A Minor League affiliations Pacific Coast League Pacific Conference - Northern Division Major League affiliation Seattle Mariners (1995-Present) Oakland Athletics (1980-1994) New York Yankees (1978-1979) Minnesota Twins (1972-1977) Chicago Cubs (1966-1971) San Francisco Giants (1960-1965) Current uniform Name Tacoma Rainiers (1995-Present... Thomas Gordon (born November 18, 1967 in Sebring, Florida), nicknamed Flash, is a Major League Baseball right-handed pitcher who plays for the Philadelphia Phillies. ...

1996: First Full Season and Breakout Year

The following year, Rodriguez took over as the Mariners' regular shortstop (SS) and emerged as a star player, hitting 36 HR, driving in 123 runs, and pacing the American League (AL) with a .358 batting average, the highest for an AL righthanded batter since Joe DiMaggio hit .381 in 1939 and the 3rd highest ever for a SS. At 21 years and one month, he was the 3rd youngest AL batting leader ever behind Al Kaline (20) in 1955 and Ty Cobb (20) in 1907, and the 3rd youngest player in history with 35+ homers. He was also the 1st major league SS to win a Batting Title since 1960, and the 1st in the AL since 1944, and at 20 years, 11 months, was the youngest SS in All-Star Game history. He also led the AL in runs (141), total bases (379), and doubles (54) and ranked among the league leaders in hits (2nd, 215), extra base hits (2nd, 91), multi-hit games (3rd, 65), slugging (4th, .631), RBI (8th, 123), and on-base percentage (8th, .414). Rodriguez posted the highest totals ever for a shortstop in runs, hits, doubles, extra base hits, and slugging, and tied most total bases, and established Seattle club records for average, runs, hits, doubles, and total bases, in a season that statistical analysts consider the best ever by a SS.^[3] The position of the shortstop Shortstop, abbreviated SS, is the baseball fielding position between second and third base. ... American League The American League (or formally the American League of Professional Baseball Clubs) is one of two leagues that make up Major League Baseball in the United States of America and Canada. ... Batting average is a statistic in both cricket and baseball measuring the performance of cricket batsmen and baseball hitters, respectively. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... Albert William Kaline (born December 19, 1934 in Baltimore, Maryland) is a former Major League Baseball player. ... Tyrus Raymond Ty Cobb (December 18, 1886 – July 17, 1961), nicknamed The Georgia Peach, was a Hall of Fame baseball player. ... The batting championship is awarded to the Major League Baseball player in each the American League and National League who has the highest batting average in a particular season. ... The Major League Baseball All-Star Game is an annual exhibition baseball game between the best players from the National League and the American League. ... In baseball, a double is the act of a batter safely reaching second base by striking the ball and getting to second before being made out, without the benefit of a fielders misplay (see error) or another runner being put out on a fielders choice. ...

He was selected by both The Sporting News and Associated Press as the Major League Player of the Year, and came close to becoming the youngest MVP (Most Valuable Player) in baseball history, finishing second to Juan González in one of the most controversial MVP elections in recent times.^[4] He finished three points behind González (290-287), matching the 2nd closest A.L. MVP voting in history. The Sporting News (TSN) is an American-based sports newspaper. ... The Associated Press, or AP, is an American news agency, the worlds largest such organization. ... In American sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests. ... In sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests. ... For the journalist and radio host, see Juan Gonzalez; For the scientist and educator, see Juan E. González; for the former president of Paraguay, see Juan Natalicio González Juan González in Cleveland Indians uniform Juan Alberto González Vázquez (born October 20, 1969 in Arecibo, Puerto...

1997 Season

In 1997, Rodriguez's numbers fell somewhat, as he hit 23 HRs with 84 RBI and a .300 batting average that year. He hit for the cycle on June 5 at Detroit, becoming the 2nd Mariner to ever accomplish the feat, and at 21 years, 10 months, was 5th youngest player in history to do it. He was the fan's choice to start the All-Star Game at shortstop for the AL team, becoming the first player other than Cal Ripken to start at shortstop in 13 years. It was the first All-Star start of his career and his second All-Star Game in two years. The following are the events of the year 1997 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Eric Davis hit for the cycle in 1989 In baseball, a player hits for the cycle when he hits a single, a double, a triple and a home run in the same game, though not necessarily in that order. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1998–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 2, 5, 6, 16, 23, 42 Name Detroit Tigers (1901–present) Other nicknames The Bless You Boys Ballpark Comerica Park (2000–present) Tiger Stadium (1912-1999) Briggs Stadium (1938-1960) Navin Field (1912-1938) Bennett... The Major League Baseball All-Star Game is an annual exhibition baseball game between the best players from the National League and the American League. ... There are two notable people named Cal Ripken. ...

1998: 40-40 Club

Rodriguez rebounded in 1998, setting the AL record for homers by a shortstop and becoming just the third member of the 40-40 Club, (with 42 HR and 46 SB) and one of just 3 shortstops in history to hit 40 home runs in a season. The 40-40 club is a term coined by sportswriters to distinguish Major League Baseball players who accumulate a total of both 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season. ... The all-time stolen base leader, Rickey Henderson, swipes third in 1988. ...

He was selected as Players Choice AL Player of the Year, won his 2nd Silver Slugger Award and finished in the top 10 in the MVP voting. Silver Slugger Award In Major League Baseball, the Louisville Silver Slugger award is given annually to the best offensive player at each position in each league. ...

1999 Season

In 1999 he again hit 42 HR, despite missing over 30 games with an injury and playing the second half of the season at Safeco Field, a considerably less hitter-friendly ballpark than the Kingdome. The following are the baseball events of the year 1999 throughout the world. ... Safeco Field, sometimes simply referred to as Safeco for short or even The Safe, is the home of the Seattle Mariners baseball club. ... The Kingdome, officially known as the King County Domed Stadium, and often referred to as simply The Dome, was owned and operated by King County, Washington. ...

2000: Final Season in Seattle

Rodriguez entered 2000 as the cornerstone player of the Mariners franchise, which had recently dealt superstars Randy Johnson and Ken Griffey, Jr. Rodriguez put up great numbers as the team's remaining superstar; he hit 41 HR with 132 RBI and had a .316 batting average. He set a career high for walks (100) and became the first and only shortstop to have 100 runs, RBI, and walks in the same season. He hit well in the playoffs too (.409 batting average and .773 slugging percentage), but Seattle lost to the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series. This year in baseball: 1998 - 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 6 - Major League Baseball officials order Atlanta Braves reliever John Rocker is to undergo psychological testing following derogatory remarks he made in an interview with Sports Illustrated magazine. ... For other persons named Randy Johnson, see Randy Johnson (disambiguation). ... George Kenneth Griffey, Jr. ... In baseball statistics, a base on balls (BB), also called a walk, is credited to a batter and against a pitcher when a batter receives four pitches that the umpire calls balls. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... In Major League Baseball, the American League Championship Series (ALCS), played in October, is a playoff round that determines the winner of the American League pennant. ...

He was selected as the Major League Player of the Year by Baseball America and finished 3rd in the BBWAA AL MVP voting. Baseball America is an alternative Major League Baseball resource, with in-depth coverage of every level of the game and a particular focus on up-and-coming players. ... Founded in 1908 as the Baseball Writers Association of America, the BBWAA is a professional association for baseball journalists writing for daily newspapers and magazines. ...

Texas Rangers

Rodriguez became a free agent after the 2000 season. He eventually signed with the Texas Rangers, who had fallen to last in their division in 2000. The contract he signed is the most lucrative contract in sports history: a 10-year deal worth $252 million. The deal is worth $63 million more than the second-richest baseball deal. In North American professional sports, particularly baseball, football, and basketball, a free agent is a team player whose contract with a team has expired, and the player is able to sign a contract with another team. ... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1972–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 26, 34, 42 Name Texas Rangers (1972–present) Washington Senators (1961-1971) Other nicknames The Lone Stars Ballpark Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (1994–present) a. ...

2001-2002: Record-breaking Seasons

Rodriguez's power hitting numbers improved with his move to Texas. In his first season with the Rangers, Alex produced one of the top offensive seasons ever for a shortstop, leading the American League with 52 HR, 133 runs scored, and 393 total bases. He became the first player since 1932 with 50 homers and 200 hits in a season, just the third shortstop to ever lead his league in homers, and was just the second AL player in the last 34 seasons (beginning 1968) to lead the league in runs, homers, and total bases; his total base figure is the most ever for a major league shortstop. His 52 homers made him the sixth youngest to ever reach 50 homers and were the highest total ever by a shortstop, surpassing Ernie Banks' mark of 47 in 1958, and also the most ever for an infielder other than a 1st baseman, breaking Phillies 3B Mike Schmidt's record of 48 in 1980.^[5] It was his 5th 30-homer campaign, tying Banks for most ever by a shortstop. He also tied for the league lead in extra base hits (87) and ranked 3rd in RBI (135) and slugging (.622). He was also among the AL leaders in hits (4th, 201), average (7th, .318), and on-base percentage (8th, .399). He established Rangers club records for homers, runs, total bases, and hit by pitches, had the 2nd most extra base hits, and the 4th highest RBI total. He led the club in runs, hits, doubles (34), homers, RBI, slugging, and on-base percentage and was 2nd in walks (75), stolen bases (18), and game-winning RBI (14) while posting career highs for homers, RBI, and total bases. Rodriguez started 161 games at shortstop and one as the DH, the only major league player to start all of his team's games in 2001. Ernest Ernie Banks (born January 31, 1931 in Dallas, Texas) is an American former Major League baseball player who played his entire career with the Chicago Cubs (1953-1971). ... This article needs additional references or sources for verification. ... In baseball, being hit by a pitch refers to the batter being hit in some part of the body by a pitch from the pitcher. ... This article or section needs additional references or sources to improve its verifiability. ...

He followed that with a major league-best 57 HR, 142 RBI and 389 total bases in 2002, becoming the first player to lead the majors in all three categories since 1984. He had the 6th-most home runs in AL history, the most since Roger Maris' league record 61 in 1961, and the most ever for a shortstop for the 2nd straight year while also winning his first Gold Glove Award, awarded for outstanding defense. This year in baseball: 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 8 - Ozzie Smith is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. ... Roger Eugene Maris (September 10, 1934 – December 14, 1985) was an American right fielder in Major League Baseball who is primarily remembered for breaking Babe Ruths 34-year-old single-season home run record in 1961 on the last day of the season. ... In American baseball, the Rawlings Gold Glove Award, usually referred to simply as the Gold Glove, is the award annually given to the Major League player judged to be the most superior individual fielding performance at each position (in each league), as voted by the managers and coaches in each...

His 109 home runs in 2001-02 are the most ever by an American League right-handed batter in consecutive seasons. However, the Rangers finished last in the AL Western division in both years, a showing that likely cost Rodriguez the MVP award in 2002 when he finished second to fellow shortstop Miguel Tejada, whose 103-win Oakland A's won the same division. The American League West Division is one of Major League Baseballs six divisions. ... In American sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests. ... Miguel Odalis Tejada (born May 25, 1976), nicknamed Miggy, is currently the shortstop of the Baltimore Orioles Major League Baseball team. ... Oakland Athletics American League AAA Sacramento River Cats AA Midland RockHounds A Stockton Ports Kane County Cougars Vancouver Canadians R Phoenix Athletics The Oakland Athletics are a Major League Baseball team based in Oakland, California. ...

2003: American League Most Valuable Player

In 2003, his last season with Texas, Rodriguez led the American League in home runs, runs scored, and slugging percentage, and won his second consecutive Gold Glove Award. He also led the league in fewest at bats per home run (12.9) and became the youngest player to hit 300 homers. In American baseball, the Rawlings Gold Glove Award, usually referred to simply as the Gold Glove, is the award annually given to the Major League player judged to be the most superior individual fielding performance at each position (in each league), as voted by the managers and coaches in each...

Following five top-10 finishes in the AL Most Valuable Player voting between 1996 and 2002, Rodriguez won his first MVP trophy. A-Rod, a two-time runner up in the balloting by the Baseball Writers Association of America, joined outfielder Andre Dawson from the 1987 Chicago Cubs as the only players to play on last-place teams and win the award. American League The American League (or formally the American League of Professional Baseball Clubs) is one of two leagues that make up Major League Baseball in the United States of America and Canada. ... In sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests. ... In American sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests. ... official logo The Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA) is a professional association for baseball journalists writing for daily newspapers and magazines. ... Andre Nolan Dawson (born July 10, 1954, Miami, Florida) is a former Major League Baseball outfielder. ... Major league affiliations National League (1876–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 10, 14, 23, 26, 42 Name Chicago Cubs (1902–present) Chicago Orphans (1898-1901) Chicago Colts (1890-1897) Chicago White Stockings (1870-1889) (a. ...

Following the 2003 season, Texas set out to move Rodriguez and his expensive contract. The Rangers agreed to a trade with the Boston Red Sox, but the MLBPA (Major League Baseball Players Association) vetoed the deal because it called for a voluntary reduction in salary by Rodriguez. Despite the failed deal with the Red Sox, the Rangers named him team captain during that off-season. This designation did not last long, however, as the New York Yankees had taken notice of the sudden trade availability of Rodriguez. Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... The Major League Baseball Players Association (or MLBPA) is the union of professional major-league baseball players. ...

New York Yankees

New York's third baseman, Aaron Boone, suffered a knee injury while playing a game of pickup basketball which sidelined him for the entire 2004 season, creating a hole at third base. Aaron John Boone (born March 9, 1973 in La Mesa, California) is a major league third baseman who plays for the Florida Marlins. ...

On February 15, 2004 Rodriguez was successfully traded to the New York Yankees for second baseman Alfonso Soriano and a player to be named later (Joaquin Arias was named as that player on March 24). The Rangers agreed to pay $67 million of the $179 million left on Rodriguez's contract. is the 46th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... shelby was here 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... Alfonso Soriano (born January 7, 1976 in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic) is a Major League Baseball player for the Chicago Cubs. ... Joaquin Arias (born September 21, 1984 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) is a shortstop in the Texas Rangers minor league system. ... is the 83rd day of the year (84th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

Alex Rodriguez taking his position at 3rd base at the beginning of a new inning

Rodriguez agreed to switch positions from shortstop to third base, paving the way for the trade, because the popular Derek Jeter was already entrenched at that position. Rodriguez also had to switch uniform numbers, from 3 to 13; he had worn 3 his entire career, but that number is retired by the Yankees in honor of Babe Ruth. Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Derek Sanderson Jeter (born June 26, 1974 in Pequannock Township, New Jersey) is an American Major League Baseball player. ... For the band, see Babe Ruth (band). ...

2004: First Season with Yankees

In his first season with the Yankees, Rodriguez hit .286 with 36 home runs, 106 runs batted in, 112 runs scored and 28 stolen bases. He became one of only three players in Major League history to compile at least 35 home runs, 100 runs and 100 RBI in seven consecutive seasons, joining Hall of Famers Babe Ruth and Jimmie Foxx. The 112 runs marked the ninth straight season in which he scored at least 100 runs, the longest such streak in the Major Leagues since Hank Aaron did it in 13 straight seasons from 1955-1967, and the longest in the American League since Mickey Mantle did it also in nine straight seasons from 1953-1961. During the 2004 season he also became the youngest player ever to reach the 350 HR mark and the third youngest to reach the 1,000 RBI plateau. He was elected to the 2004 American League All-Star Team, the eighth All-Star selection of his career and the first as a third baseman. On July 24, 2004, after being hit by a pitch, Rodriguez and Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek scuffled, leading to a brawl between both teams. He finished 14th in balloting for the AL MVP Award. Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... In baseball statistics, a run batted in (RBI) is given to a batter for each run scored as the result of a batters plate appearance. ... The all-time stolen base leader, Rickey Henderson, swipes third in 1985 In baseball statistics, stolen bases (denoted by SB) is a count of the number of bases successfully stolen by a player. ... For the band, see Babe Ruth (band). ... Jimmie Foxx on the cover of Time in 1929 James Emory Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball who was, up until Mark McGwires glory days in the late 1990s, the most prolific right-handed power hitter to ever play... Henry Louis Hank Aaron (born February 5, 1934 in Mobile, Alabama) is a retired American baseball player and member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. ... Mickey Charles Mantle (October 20, 1931 – August 13, 1995) was an American baseball player who was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2004 throughout the world. ... The position of the third baseman Third base redirects here. ... is the 205th day of the year (206th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... Jason Andrew Varitek (born April 11, 1972) is an American baseball player born in Rochester, Michigan. ... In the game of baseball, both amateur and professional, it is tradition to annually recognize the one player in the league who has contributed the most to the success of the players team. ...

In the 2004 ALDS, Rodriguez was a dominant hitter against the Minnesota Twins, batting .421 and slugging .737 while delivering two key extra-inning hits. Following the series win, Rodriguez's first season with the Yankees culminated in a dramatic playoff series against the team he had almost ended up playing for: the Yankees' bitter rival, the Boston Red Sox. In that series (ALCS) he equaled the single-game post-season record with five runs scored in Game 3 at Boston. In Major League Baseball, the American League Division Series (ALDS) determines which two teams from the American League will advance to the American League Championship Series. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 6, 14, 29, 34, 42 Name Minnesota Twins (1961–present) Washington Nationals/Senators (1901-1960) Other nicknames The Twinkies Ballpark Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome 1982-present Metropolitan Stadium (1961-1981) Griffith Stadium (1903-1960... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds...

One of the most controversial plays of Rodriguez's career occurred late in Game 6 of the 2004 ALCS (American League Championship Series). With one out and Derek Jeter on first base in the bottom of the eighth inning, Rodriguez hit a slow roller between the pitcher's mound and the first base line. Red Sox pitcher Bronson Arroyo fielded the ball and ran towards Rodriguez to apply a tag. As Arroyo reached towards him, Rodriguez swatted at his glove, knocking the ball loose. As the ball rolled away, Jeter scored all the way from first as Rodriguez took second on the play, which was initially ruled an error on Arroyo. However, the umpires quickly huddled, then ruled that Rodriguez was out for interference. Jeter was sent back to first base, his run nullified. The Yankees wound up losing 4-2. Rodriguez's behavior, perceived as unprofessional, inspired much derision from Red Sox fans. The 2004 American League Championship Series was a Major League Baseball playoff series played between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. ... Derek Sanderson Jeter (born June 26, 1974 in Pequannock Township, New Jersey) is an American Major League Baseball player. ... This article or section does not cite any references or sources. ... Bronson Anthony Arroyo [ah-ROY-yoh] (born February 24, 1977 in Key West, Florida), is a popular Major League Baseball right-handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds and a rock musician. ...

2005: American League Most Valuable Player

In 2005, Rodriguez hit .321, leading the American League with 124 runs and 48 HR while driving in 130 runs. He became the first Yankee to win the American League home run title since Reggie Jackson (41) in 1980. He also became one of only two players in Major League history to compile at least 35 home runs, 100 runs and 100 RBIs in eight consecutive seasons (Jimmie Foxx accomplished the feat in nine straight seasons from 1932-1940). Rodriguez established the franchise record for most home runs in a single season by a right-handed batter (broke Joe DiMaggio's mark of 46 in 1937). His 47 HR from the third base position are a single-season American League record. Alex hit 26 home runs at Yankee Stadium in 2005, establishing the single-season club record for right-handed batters (previously held by DiMaggio in 1937 and Gary Sheffield in 2004). On August 6, at 29 years, 316 days old, he became the youngest player in MLB history to reach the 400 HR mark. 2005 also marked the tenth straight season that Rodriguez scored at least 100 runs. Reginald Martinez Reggie Jackson (born May 18, 1946), nicknamed Mr. ... Jimmie Foxx on the cover of Time in 1929 James Emory Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball who was, up until Mark McGwires glory days in the late 1990s, the most prolific right-handed power hitter to ever play... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... This is about the stadium the New York Yankees currently play in. ... For the military historian, see: Gary Sheffield (historian) Gary Antonian Sheffield (born November 18, 1968 in Tampa, Florida) is a Major League Baseball designated hitter and outfielder for the Detroit Tigers. ...

An offensive highlight of his season came on April 26, when Rodriguez hit 3 HR off Angels' pitcher Bartolo Colon and drove in 10 runs. The 10 RBIs were the most by a Yankee since Tony Lazzeri established the franchise and American League record with 11 on 5/24/36. Rodriguez won his second AL MVP Award in three seasons. Bartolo Colon (or Bartolo Colón) (born May 24, 1973 in Altamira, Dominican Republic) is a right-handed starting pitcher currently playing for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, after bouncing around on a few teams. ... Anthony Michael Lazzeri (December 6, 1903 in San Francisco, California- August 6, 1946 in San Francisco, California), better known as Tony Lazzeri, was a Major League Baseball player during the 1920s and 1930s, predominantly with the New York Yankees. ... In the game of baseball, both amateur and professional, it is tradition to annually recognize the one player in the league who has contributed the most to the success of the players team. ...

He became the fifth player to win an MVP award (or its precursor 'League Award') with two different teams, joining Mickey Cochrane, Jimmie Foxx, Frank Robinson and Barry Bonds. Rodriguez was also named the shortstop on the Major League Baseball Latino Legends Team in 2005. Gordon Stanley Mickey Cochrane (April 6, 1903-June 28, 1962) was a Scottish-American catcher and manager in Major League Baseball for the Philadelphia Athletics and Detroit Tigers. ... Jimmie Foxx on the cover of Time in 1929 James Emory Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball who was, up until Mark McGwires glory days in the late 1990s, the most prolific right-handed power hitter to ever play... This article is about the baseball player and manager. ... Barry Lamar Bonds (born July 24, 1964 in Riverside, California) He is the son of former Major League All-Star Bobby Bonds, cousin of Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson, and the godson of Hall of Famer Willie Mays. ... The Latino Legends Team was an all-time all-star baseball team selected in 2005 to honor the history of Latin American players in Major League Baseball. ...

2006 Season

Rodriguez was again an All-Star in 2006, and was 4th in the league in RBI (121), 5th in runs (113), 8th in home runs (35) and walks (90), and 9th in OBP (.392). Rodriguez's 2,000th hit, on July 21, 2006, was also his 450th home run. Six days shy of his 31st birthday, Rodriguez became the youngest player in baseball history to reach 450 home runs (surpassing Ken Griffey, Jr. by 267 days). He also became the 8th player to reach 2,000 hits before turning 31. Ty Cobb reached the mark while still 29, while Rogers Hornsby, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Joe Medwick, Jimmie Foxx, and Robin Yount all got their 2,000th hits at age 30. All 7 of the players are members of baseball's Hall of Fame. Rodriguez also became the 2nd player in Major League history to have at least 35 home runs, 100 runs, and 100 RBI in 9 consecutive seasons joining Jimmie Foxx. 2006 was Alex's 11th consecutive season with more than 100 runs scored, the longest such streak in American League history since Lou Gehrig did it in 13 straight seasons (1926-38). Despite this success he was harshly criticized throughout the 2006 season. He has said that 2006 was his most difficult season as a professional.^[6] is the 202nd day of the year (203rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Ken Griffey, Jr. ... Tyrus Raymond Ty Cobb (December 18, 1886 – July 17, 1961), nicknamed The Georgia Peach, was a Hall of Fame baseball player. ... Rogers Hornsby (April 27, 1896 in Winters, Texas - January 5, 1963 in Chicago, Illinois), nicknamed The Rajah, was a Major League Baseball second baseman and manager. ... Melvin Thomas (Mel) Ott (March 2, 1909 – November 21, 1958), nicknamed Master Melvin, was a right fielder in Major League Baseball who played his entire career in the National League for the New York Giants (1926-1947). ... Henry Louis Hank Aaron (born February 5, 1934 in Mobile, Alabama) is a retired American baseball player and member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. ... Joseph Michael Medwick (November 24, 1911 - March 21, 1975), nicknamed Ducky, was an American player in Major League Baseball. ... Jimmie Foxx on the cover of Time in 1929 James Emory Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball who was, up until Mark McGwires glory days in the late 1990s, the most prolific right-handed power hitter to ever play... Robin Rachel Yount (born September 16, 1955 in Danville, Illinois) is a former Major League Baseball player who spent his entire career with the Milwaukee Brewers (1974-1994). ... The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 25 Main Street in Cooperstown, New York, is a semi-official museum operated by private interests serving as the central point for the study of the history of baseball in the United States and beyond, the display of baseball-related... Jimmie Foxx on the cover of Time in 1929 James Emory Foxx (October 22, 1907 – July 21, 1967) was an American first baseman in Major League Baseball who was, up until Mark McGwires glory days in the late 1990s, the most prolific right-handed power hitter to ever play... Henry Louis (Lou) Gehrig (June 19, 1903 – June 2, 1941), born Ludwig Heinrich Gehrig, was an American baseball player in the first half of the twentieth century. ...

2007 Season

Alex Rodriguez is not too pleased with a called strike in a game against Tampa Bay.

With the 2007 season came a new attitude. Rodriguez reported to camp lighter, having reduced his body fat from 16% the year before to 9%. Alex made light of this fact during a Late Night with David Letterman sketch filmed during Spring Training, which featured a shirtless A-Rod being rubbed down with sun tan lotion. He revealed to the press that he and Derek Jeter were no longer close friends. Alex also reduced his high leg kick at the plate, increasing his bat speed, making him less-apt to strike out and a more dangerous hitter. Additionally, Alex opted to wear high stockings instead of wearing his pants long.[1] Image File history File links Metadata No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links Metadata No higher resolution available. ... In biochemistry, fat is a generic term for a class of lipids. ... Late Night with David Letterman was a nightly hour-long comedy talk show on NBC hosted by David Letterman. ...

2007 also marks the last year of Alex's 10-year, $252 million contract before he can opt out, effectively making him a free agent again. Though Alex has repeatedly stated that he would like to remain a Yankee for the rest of his career[2], many speculate that he will indeed exercise the opt out clause and become a free agent.

In the Yankees' fourth game of the season, Rodriguez hit two home runs against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium, including a walk-off grand slam, the third of his career, tying the major league mark shared by Vern Stephens and Cy Williams.^[7][8] Rodriguez also began the season by becoming the ninth major leaguer--and first Yankee--to hit six home runs in the first seven games of the season. Rodriguez also became the first Yankee to hit seven home runs in the first ten games of the season. ^[9] Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 4, 5, 8, 20, 22, 33, 42 Name Baltimore Orioles (1954–present) St. ... This is about the stadium the New York Yankees currently play in. ... In baseball, a walk-off home run is a home run which ends the game. ... In the sport of baseball, a grand slam is a home run hit with all the bases occupied, thereby scoring 4 runs - the most possible on a single play. ... Vernon Decatur Stephens (October 23, 1920 - November 3, 1968) was an American shortstop in Major League Baseball who played 15 seasons in the American League for four different teams. ... Cy Williams of the Philadelphia Phillies at Cubs Park in 1922. ...

On April 19, 2007, the Yankees came from behind to defeat the Cleveland Indians 8-6—with Rodriguez hitting a walk-off home run. On April 23, 2007, Rodriguez became the first player in major league history to hit 14 home runs in a span of 18 games, and also tied the MLB record for most home runs in April. His total of 34 RBIs in April was 1 short of Juan González' AL and MLB record. On April 24, Rodriguez's 23-game hitting streak came to an end. In a game against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 30, 2007, Rodriguez sparked controversy when he shouted during a routine play and the infielder let the pop fly drop costing the Blue Jays four runs. The Yankees went on to win the game, 10-5. April 19 is the 109th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (110th in leap years). ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 5, 14, 18, 19, 21, 42, 455 Name Cleveland Indians (1915–present) Cleveland Naps (1905-1914) Cleveland Bronchos (1902-1904) Cleveland Blues (1901) Ballpark Jacobs Field (1994–present) Cleveland Stadium (1932-1993)* a. ... April 23 is the 113th day of the year (114th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ... For the journalist and radio host, see Juan Gonzalez; For the scientist and educator, see Juan E. González; for the former president of Paraguay, see Juan Natalicio González Juan González in Cleveland Indians uniform Juan Alberto González Vázquez (born October 20, 1969 in Arecibo, Puerto... April 24 is the 114th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (115th in leap years). ... is the 150th day of the year (151st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ...

On June 12th, Rodriguez hit a mammoth home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks that hit off the front of the upper deck in left field. The home run was A-Rod's 25th of the season in only 63 games. That beats out his mark of the 2006 season, in which it took Rodriquez 113 games to reach 25.

Through July 22, Rodriguez ranks 1st in the Major Leagues in home runs (34), RBI (99), slugging percentage (.665), and runs (93). Rodriguez is also on pace to hit 65 home runs, breaking the American League single season Home Run Record of 61 set by former Yankee Roger Maris in 1961. [3]

Criticism

Reggie Jackson talking with Rodriguez during batting practice. Many unflattering comparisons have been drawn between Jackson's postseason career and Rodriguez's.

Due to the unsuccessful nature of the Yankees 2005 and 2006 postseasons and Rodriguez's sub .200 batting average in both of the series,^[10] Rodriguez has drawn much criticism in the New York area. Because of the Yankees' successful history, he is often compared unfavorably to other Yankees greats who have performed exceptionally well in the postseason, such as Reggie Jackson.^[11] Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1439x1950, 519 KB) File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Alex Rodriguez Metadata This file contains additional information, probably added from the digital camera or scanner used to... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1439x1950, 519 KB) File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Alex Rodriguez Metadata This file contains additional information, probably added from the digital camera or scanner used to... Reginald Martinez Reggie Jackson (born May 18, 1946), nicknamed Mr. ... Reginald Martinez Reggie Jackson (born May 18, 1946), nicknamed Mr. ...

While Rodriguez won the AL MVP award in 2005 and played a pivotal role in the Yankees defeat of the Minnesota Twins in the 2004 ALDS, his recent postseason struggles have left fans frustrated. Rodriguez performed well in the earlier half of the 2004 postseason, hitting .320 with 3 home runs and 5 doubles in 50 at bats, but as was the case with the team in general, he ceased to pose an offensive threat during the final four games of the ALCS against the Boston Red Sox. The following postseason, Rodriguez went 2-for-15 in five games, and most recently, in the 2006 postseason, went 1-for-14 against the Detroit Tigers. Through 2006, Rodriguez was a paltry 4-for-41 (.098 batting average) with no RBI in his last 12 postseason games.^[12] Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 6, 14, 29, 34, 42 Name Minnesota Twins (1961–present) Washington Nationals/Senators (1901-1960) Other nicknames The Twinkies Ballpark Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome 1982-present Metropolitan Stadium (1961-1981) Griffith Stadium (1903-1960... In Major League Baseball, the American League Division Series (ALDS) determine which two teams from the American League will advance to the American League Championship Series. ... ALCS can be: A transaction processing monitor for the IBM System/370 and System/390 mainframes. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1998–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 2, 5, 6, 16, 23, 42 Name Detroit Tigers (1901–present) Other nicknames The Bless You Boys Ballpark Comerica Park (2000–present) Tiger Stadium (1912-1999) Briggs Stadium (1938-1960) Navin Field (1912-1938) Bennett...

Much of the criticism regarding Rodriguez is focused upon his alleged inability to produce hits in clutch situations.^[13][14] However, during the 2003-05 regular seasons, Rodriguez posted a .371 batting average with the bases loaded and maintained an on base percentage of .422. In 2006, his numbers improved to .474 and .500 respectively. In 2007, through July 14 he hit .444 and .455, respectively. Additionally, Rodriguez's other batting lines during this period included a .432 average with a runner on third (.333 in 2006), .381 with a runner in scoring position (.302 in 2006), and .392 with a runner in scoring position and 2 outs (.313 in 2006; .333 in 2007 through July 14th).^[15] In American sports terminology, clutch means performing well under extreme pressure. ...

In May 2006, Rodriguez responded to the criticism directed at him, saying:

Rodriguez ready to hit in June 19, 2007

In an issue of Sports Illustrated, Rodriguez surmised further reasons why he has become an apparent magnet for criticism, saying: Image File history File links Metadata Size of this preview: 800 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (1280 × 960 pixel, file size: 364 KB, MIME type: image/jpeg) Taken by OneTwo1. ... Image File history File links Metadata Size of this preview: 800 × 600 pixelsFull resolution (1280 × 960 pixel, file size: 364 KB, MIME type: image/jpeg) Taken by OneTwo1. ... Joseph Chris Carter (born March 7, 1960 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma) is a former right fielder in Major League Baseball who played from 1983 to 1998, most famous for hitting a home run to end the 1993 World Series, with the Toronto Blue Jays trailing 6-5 to the Philadelphia... The first issue of Sports Illustrated, August 16, 1954, showing Milwaukee Braves star Eddie Mathews at bat in Milwaukee County Stadium. ...

Nonetheless, sportswriters, fans, and teammates have continued to debate Alex Rodriguez's performance in the clutch. Some writers such as the New York Post's Joel Sherman have asked, "How do you disregard your eyes completely? How do you ignore that at the most intense moments Rodriguez seems to be carrying his 32-ounce bat and the weight of the world into each at-bat?"^[18] Other sportswriters including ESPN's D.J. Gallo openly mocked Rodriguez's harshest critics while discussing an off-day in the Yankee schedule: "Typical A-Fraud -- the Yankees manage to win back-to-back games against the Red Sox and he needs a day off. Pathetic."^[19] In the same issue of Sports Illustrated cited earlier, teammate Jason Giambi also criticized Rodriguez, remarking:"...you've got to get the big hit."^[17] However, Rodriguez and Giambi implied that the story was taken out of context, with Giambi claiming that his comments were part of a "pep talk", and not an argument, because he "was just trying to find a way to help him out."^[20] Rodriguez agreed, "This is the most support I've ever gotten from any team. I couldn't be more proud." The terms multiracial, biracial and mixed-race describe people whose ancestors are not of a single race. ... The New York Post is the 13th-oldest newspaper published in the United States and the oldest to have been published continually as a daily. ... ESPN, formerly an acronym for Entertainment and Sports Programming Network, is an American cable television network dedicated to broadcasting sports-related programming 24 hours a day. ... Jason Gilbert Giambi (born January 8, 1971) is a Major League Baseball Player and designated hitter for the New York Yankees. ...

In the 2004 American League Championship Series, Rodriguez hit the ball out of Boston Red Sox pitcher Bronson Arroyo's hand while he was attempting to apply a tag. Rodriguez was subsequently called out by the umpires. Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling criticized Rodriguez by referring to the move as an example of “junior high school baseball." Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... Bronson Anthony Arroyo [ah-ROY-yoh] (born February 24, 1977 in Key West, Florida), is a popular Major League Baseball right-handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds and a rock musician. ... Curtis Montague Schilling (born November 14, 1966 in Anchorage, Alaska) is an American Major League Baseball player, a right-handed starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. ...

Rodriguez also received considerable bad press when on May 30, 2007, he yelled something (he says he yelled "Ha!"; the Blue Jays contend he yelled "Mine!") while rounding the bases in the ninth inning, distracting third baseman Howie Clark of the Toronto Blue Jays from making a play on a fly ball in the infield. Many Jays players and sports personalities considered this poor sportsmanship and against the "unwritten" rules of baseball. Even Yankees manager Joe Torre considered this probably out of line, saying "It was probably inappropriate to do it at the time he did it, but you can't change it, unfortunately." ^[21] Howard Roddy Clark (born February 13, 1974 in San Diego, California) is a Major League shortstop who currently plays for the Toronto Blue Jays. ... Major league affiliations American League (1977–present) East Division (1977–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 42 Name Toronto Blue Jays (1977–present) Ballpark Rogers Centre (1989–present) a. ... In baseball, a batted ball can be called one of several various things, depending on how it comes off the bat and where in the field it lands. ...

Awards and honors

Achievements

Records

Runs or running is a music slang term for ad libbing and expanding on a musical note with ones voice. ... The position of the shortstop Shortstop, abbreviated SS, is the baseball fielding position between second and third base. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1996 throughout the world. ... In baseball, an extra base hit (EB, EBH or XBH) is a statistic credited to a batter for hitting a double, triple, or home run. ... In baseball statistics, slugging average (SLG) is a measure of the power of a hitter. ... In baseball statistics, total bases refers to the number of bases a player has gained with hits, i. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2001 throughout the world. ... Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... This year in baseball: 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 8 - Ozzie Smith is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. ... This article or section needs additional references or sources to improve its verifiability. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... The following is a list of the Major League Baseball players with the highest career total of home runs by birth state (or country, where applicable) as of July 16, 2007. ... The following are the events of the year 1994 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... A person who is right-handed is more dextrous with their right hand than with their left hand: they will write with their right hand, and probably also use this hand for tasks such as personal care, cooking, and so on. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2001 throughout the world. ... This year in baseball: 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 8 - Ozzie Smith is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. ... This article or section needs additional references or sources to improve its verifiability. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... The position of the third baseman Third base redirects here. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2005 throughout the world. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2007 throughout the world. ... Mark McGwire swinging for the fences. ... A person who is right-handed is more dextrous with their right hand than with their left hand: they will write with their right hand, and probably also use this hand for tasks such as personal care, cooking, and so on. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2005 throughout the world. ... This is about the stadium the New York Yankees currently play in. ...

Career statistics

Personal life

He married Cynthia Scurtis on November 2, 2002. The couple's first child, Natasha Alexander, was born on November 18, 2004. November 2 is the 306th day of the year (307th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 59 days remaining. ... For album titles with the same name, see 2002 (album). ... is the 322nd day of the year (323rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... shelby was here 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

On May 27, 2007, Rodriguez was spotted at a Toronto strip club with a blonde woman, later identified as Joslyn Noel Morse, an exotic dancer with Scores Las Vegas who was featured in Playboy's 2001 magazine "Playboy's Casting Calls." ^[23] The New York Post ran a picture on May 30, 2007. is the 147th day of the year (148th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ... For the book or movie Striptease see Striptease (book) and Striptease (movie) A striptease is a performance, usually a dance, in which the performer gradually removes their clothing for the purposes of sexually arousing the audience, usually performed in nightclubs. ... This does not cite its references or sources. ... Score can mean one of several things: A score is a group of twenty things; four score means eighty. ... For further information, see Las Vegas metropolitan area and Las Vegas Strip. ... Playboy is an American mens magazine, founded in 1953 by Hugh Hefner and his associates, which has grown into Playboy Enterprises, Inc. ... The New York Post is the 13th-oldest newspaper published in the United States and the oldest to have been published continually as a daily. ... is the 150th day of the year (151st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ...

Trivia

• In 2003, Alex Rodriguez gave $3.9 million to the University of Miami to renovate its baseball stadium. The new facility will be named 'Mark Light Field at Alex Rodriguez Park.' Rodriguez remains an ardent University of Miami fan and can frequently be found at Hurricane sporting events, as well as working out at the school's athletic facilities in the off-season.
• In 2005, The Sporting News published an update of its 1999 book Baseball's 100 Greatest Players. Rodriguez did not make the original edition, but for the 2005 update, with his career totals considerably higher, he was ranked at Number 70.
• He owns a Mercedes-Benz dealership in League City, Texas.^[24]
• His entrance music is Baby Boy's "The Way I Live".
• In 2006, his entrance music was Linkin Park/Jay-z's Numb/Encore.
• John Sterling, the play-by-play announcer for Yankees radio on WCBS-880, calls Alex Rodriguez's home runs "A-bombs", and says after each one, "It's an A-bomb! From A-Rod!"

The University of Miami (also known as UM or just The U) is a private university founded in 1925 with its main campus in the city of Coral Gables in metropolitan Miami, Florida, in the United States. ... The University of Miami (also known as UM or just The U) is a private university founded in 1925 with its main campus in the city of Coral Gables in metropolitan Miami, Florida, in the United States. ... The Sporting News (TSN) is an American-based sports newspaper. ... This page is about the Mercedes-Benz brand of automobiles and trucks from the DaimlerChrysler automobile manufacturer. ... League City is a city located in Galveston County, Texas within the Houston–Sugar Land–Baytown Metropolitan Area. ... In baseball, some players choose to have their appearance in a game be punctuated by a musical selection. ... Baby Boy (2001) is a film written, produced, and directed by John Singleton. ... The Way I Live is a 2007 single from New Orleans, Louisiana rapper Baby Boy Da Prince, from his debut album Across the Water. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... WCBS is the callsign of CBSs three flagship broadcast stations in [[New York City|New York] WCBS-AM, 880 kHz WCBS-FM, 101. ... The mushroom cloud of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Japan, 1945, rose some 18 km (11 mi) above the epicenter. ...

See also

• 50 home run club
• 40-40 club
• List of top 500 Major League Baseball home run hitters
• MLB players who have hit 30 or more home runs before the All-Star break
• List of major league players with 2,000 hits
• List of Major League Baseball players with 1000 runs
• List of Major League Baseball players with 1000 RBI
• 30-30 club
• Hitting for the cycle
• List of Major League Baseball RBI champions
• List of Major League Baseball batting champions
• List of Major League Baseball home run champions
• List of Major League Baseball runs scored champions
• Major League Baseball hitters with three home runs in one game

In Major League Baseball, the 50 home run club is an informal term applied to the group of players who have hit 50 or more home runs in a single season. ... The 40-40 club is a term coined by sportswriters to distinguish Major League Baseball players who accumulate a total of both 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season. ... This is a list of the top 500 Major League Baseball home run hitters. ... Listed below are the Major League Baseball players who have hit 30 or more home runs before the All-Star break (multiple occurrences denoted into parentheses). ... Below is the list of Major League Baseball players who have reached the 2,000 hit milestone. ... Below is the list of Major League Baseball players who have reached the 1,000 runs milestone. ... Below is the list of 250 Major League Baseball players who have reached the 1,000 RBI milestone. ... Alfonso Soriano has another 30-30 season in 2005. ... Eric Davis hit for the cycle in 1989 In baseball, a player hits for the cycle when he hits a single, a double, a triple and a home run in the same game, though not necessarily in that order. ... Major League Baseball recognizes runs batted in champions in the American League and National League each season. ... The batting championship is awarded to the Major League Baseball player in each the American League and National League who has the highest batting average in a particular season. ... The batting championship is awarded to the Major League Baseball player in each the American League and National League who has the most home runs in a particular season. ... Major League Baseball recognizes runs scored champions in the American League and National League each season. ... Listed below are the occurrences of Major League Baseball players who have hit three home runs in a single game. ...

Notes and references

The Village Voice is a New York City-based weekly newspaper featuring investigative articles, analysis of current affairs and culture, arts reviews and events listings for New York City. ... CNN.com is the news website maintained by CNN. The website debuted on August 30, 1995, and it describes itself as the first major news and information website on the Internet. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... December 23 is the 357th day of the year (358th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Joseph S. (Joe) Sheehan was born in New York City, graduated with a degree in journalism from the University of Southern California in 1994, and lives in the Los Angeles area. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ... is the 201st day of the year (202nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... MLB.com is the official site of Major League Baseball. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... MLB.com is the official site of Major League Baseball. ... The first issue of Sports Illustrated, August 16, 1954, showing Milwaukee Braves star Eddie Mathews at bat in Milwaukee County Stadium. ... ESPN.com logo ESPN.com is the official website of ESPN and a division of ESPN Inc. ... The New York Times is a daily newspaper published in New York City by Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Jr. ... The Associated Press, or AP, is an American news agency, the worlds largest such organization. ... Year 2007 (MMVII) is now the current year, a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar and the AD/CE era. ... is the 190th day of the year (191st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

External links

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Alex Rodriguez

• Baseball-Reference.com - Major league career statistics
• Alex Rodriguez at ESPN.com
• Alex Rodriguez at The Internet Movie Database
• AROD.com - Alex Rodriguez's official website
• Player Information from Yankees.com
• Fangraphs stats