With a universal DH expected for the 2020 season, former New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez appears to be considering a comeback.
It has been four years since we have last seen Alex Rodriguez on the diamond. He had limped through a disastrous 2016 season for the New York Yankees, posting a .200/.247/.351 batting line in 251 plate appearances. He hit just nine homers and seven doubles, a disappointing showing after his solid 2015 campaign.
Forced into retirement during that season, Rodriguez had lain relatively low. He had popped up as a possible buyer for the Mets, but was unable to attract financing. Aside from Jose Canseco‘s constant barbs on Twitter, Rodriguez had seemingly been content to vanish from the spotlight.
But now, he is resurfacing once more. This time, he appears to be looking to make a comeback, posting a video of his taking batting practice while saying how much he misses the game.
Of course, those hashtags may show the real motivation behind his desire to return. Rodriguez’s career ended with 696 homers, leaving four home runs shy of being the fourth player to reach the 700 homer plateau.
While PED questions will dog Rodriguez forever, his resume is impressive in a vacuum. He has a lifetime .295/.380/.550 batting line, with 3115 hits, 2086 RBI, and the aforementioned 696 homers. A 14 time All Star and three time MVP, Rodriguez certainly has been a productive hitter over the years.
The problem is that Rodriguez has not been in the majors in over three years. It is possible that there was something left in the tank, but at 45 years old, what teams would be willing to give him a look? Even those National League teams without a real option at designated hitter would be better served giving their youth a chance.
If Rodriguez is serious about a possible return to baseball, his best option might be to follow in the footsteps of another PED tainted former star. Manny Ramirez is again looking to return to the game, but wants to play in Taiwan. That might be the best option for Rodriguez as well.
Former New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez wants to return to baseball. It is difficult to imagine any team giving him a chance.