Alex Rodriguez Reportedly May Play 1st Base for Yankees in 2015
October 11, 2014 · Mike Chiari · Jump to comments
Article Source: Bleacher Report - New York Yankees
Third baseman Alex Rodriguez is expected to make his return to the New York Yankees in 2015, but he may be spending some time on the opposite side of the diamond.
According to Andrew Marchand of ESPNNewYork.com, A-Rod and Bronx Bombers manager Joe Girardi have discussed Rodriguez potentially playing some first base next season.
The three-time American League MVP missed the entire 2014 campaign after being suspended for his involvement in a Biogenesis scandal. He will be 39 years of age when the 2015 campaign commences, and Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is taking a cautious approach with him.
“I don’t think it’s safe to assume that he can play third base,” Cashman said. “With his age and missing a full year, you have to have some perspective. This is a very difficult game. Alex is up for that challenge, but I think it’s safer to assume that might not be something that he can handle the whole year.”
The Yankees figure to have plenty of options at their disposal when it comes to utilizing Rodriguez. In addition to potentially manning the hot corner and serving as the designated hitter, he could have some value at first base.
With incumbent starter Mark Teixeira struggling to stay healthy over the past couple seasons, New York would benefit from having some depth at that position.
While A-Rod has an incredible track record, there is no telling how much he will be able to contribute next season. He hit just .244 with seven home runs and 19 RBI in 44 games in 2013 after missing much of the year due to a hip injury.
Many are doubting the notion that Rodriguez can be a reliable contributor, including Jimmy Traina of FoxSports.com:
Regardless of how much his skills may have eroded, all eyes will be on A-Rod come spring training. He is a polarizing figure within the sport, and his star power is unmatched by perhaps anyone else.
There is no guarantee that the Yankees will even keep Rodriguez on the team in 2015, but he has a real chance to carve out a role for himself if he can show some versatility.
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