Alex Rodriguez Will Not Play Again In 2016 According To Spokesman

By Kenneth Teape | Aug 15, 2016

Aug 12, 2016; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Alex Rodriguez (13) takes the field to play third base during the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. New York Yankees won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

Alex Rodriguez will not be returning to the field in 2016 according to his publicist despite numerous rumors that have surfaced.

Alex Rodriguez was at the center of the baseball world last week. The New York Yankees announced Rodriguez would be released in a joint decision between the two parties. It was the end of a roller coaster ride for Rodriguez. He experienced the highest of highs by winning a World Series in 2009, and the lowest of lows by being suspended for the 2014 season.

That made the ceremonies and his last week with the Yankees memorable, as his family got to see him play one last time in a Yankee uniform. It was the end of an era, as one of the most polarizing figures would be leaving the team.

But, there were plenty of rumors swirling around; was this truly the last time that we would see Rodriguez on the field this season?

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There were rumors that Rodriguez could join the Miami Marlins for the stretch run of the season to help replace the injured Giancarlo Stanton; Stanton injured his groin and will miss the remainder of the season.

Playing in Miami would give Rodriguez a chance to continue playing the sport he loves and be closer to his family. While that is a best case scenario for Rodriguez, it is one that does not sound like it will happen.

According to Rodriguez’s publicist, Ron Berkowitz, Rodriguez will not be playing again for any major league team in 2016.

"“I want to put all this talk to rest about Alex playing for any team this season. It’s not happening. Like he said Friday night, he is happy and he is going to take some time to relax and hang with his family and friends.”"

It is clear Rodriguez will not be returning this season, but Berkowitz left the door open for 2017. There is still a chance that Rodriguez could return next season during Spring Training, maybe with an American League team looking for some pop at designated hitter.

The 41-year old Rodriguez is only four home runs shy of the 700 club, a milestone he could pursue next season if he wants. That kind of publicity and milestone chase could do good for any organization.

But, the question would linger about just how productive he could be. After shocking everyone last season with a monster start, Rodriguez saw his production plummet. He had a slash line of .282/.386/.544 through July, but managed to hit only .191 the remainder of the season.

Next: Alex Rodriguez Most Memorable Moments In Yankees Career

Rodriguez struggled in 2016 as well slashing .200/.247/.351 with nine home runs and 31 RBI in 225 at-bats.

Rodriguez will now reportedly be transitioning into an advisor/instructor role with the Yankees. While there is a chance we will see him back on the field eventually, it will not be in 2016.

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