Spokesman: Alex Rodriguez Won't Sign With Another Team This Season
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Alex Rodriguez has played his final game this season, his spokesman said Monday.
A-Rod's longtime publicist, Ron Berkowitz, released a statement saying: "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, he is going to take some time to relax and hang with his family and friends."
The statement comes after reports had surfaced that the Miami Marlins were considering reaching out to the 41-year-old slugger, who was released by the Yankees on Saturday.
Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria was said to have a "keen interest" in signing A-Rod, reported Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball and WFAN.
The Marlins are in the market for some more power after right fielder Giancarlo Stanton (25 home runs) suffered a season-ending groin injury Saturday. Meanwhile, first baseman Justin Bour (15 homers) is expected to be out until September with a high ankle sprain.
Rodriguez, who became a free agent after clearing waivers Monday afternoon, has been evasive when asked about whether he will try to resume his career. While Berkowitz's statement should close the door on any further speculation about A-Rod returning in 2016, it does not dismiss the possibility he could try to return next season.
Rodriguez has agreed to serve as a special adviser and instructor to the Yankees, but his unconditional release does not preclude him from continuing his playing career.
A-Rod hit .200 with nine home runs and 31 RBIs in 65 games with New York this season. He currently sits four home runs from 700 for his career.
Marlins president of baseball operations Michael Hill said publicly Sunday that signing Rodriguez was a possibility the team is considering. Miami was contending for its first playoff berth since 2003.
"This team has played too well for too long," Hill said. "We're right in the thick of this thing, and we're going to do everything in our power to help in any way we can. If it's him, if it's someone else, we're going to try to find a way to make it happen."
