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After sitting out the entire 2014 MLB campaign due to a suspension, Alex Rodriguez shocked the masses with his comeback performance in 2015. Rodriguez is healthy again this spring, and there’s reason to believe that despite being 40 years old, he can post a somewhat similar stat line (.250, 33 HR, 86 RBI) in 2016.
However, even if he’s physically able to play another four or five years, Rodriguez has no plans on doing so. On Wednesday, the New York Yankees‘ designated hitter told ESPN he intends to retire when his contract expires after the 2017 season.
BREAKING: Alex Rodriguez told ESPN’s Andrew Marchand he will retire after the 2017 season.https://t.co/Fw5TrfNASE pic.twitter.com/bLzIisxibP
— ESPN (@espn) March 23, 2016
I won’t play after next year,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time. For me, it is time for me to go home and be dad.”
Rodriguez turns 41 years old this summer, which means he’ll retire at 43 having played 23 seasons (would have been 24 if not for his suspension in 2014). He began his career as an 18-year-old shortstop for the Seattle Mariners, and has been on a roller-coaster ride ever since.
On paper, Rodriguez is clearly one of the greatest players in MLB history.
Alex Rodriguez’s career stats:
• 687 HR
• 3,070 H
• 2,055 RBI pic.twitter.com/NUPcSheLH9— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 23, 2016
But PED usage, scandals and admissions will likely prevent him from making the Hall of Fame unless a drastic change in philosophy among voters occurs and they begin to allow admitted users into their cherished club.
When all is said and done, Rodriguez will have made $420 million in on-field earnings. He will be able to do essentially any single thing he pleases with his time for the rest of his life. Sadly, however, he will likely also be riddled with regret about the tarnished legacy he left behind.
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