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Around A-Rod the Empire
New York Daily News | Peter Botte: Hal Steinbrenner appeared on The Michael Kay Show yesterday and stressed that the release of Alex Rodriguez was in no way forced. There was “no ultimatum” given to A-Rod regarding his new role with the organization. According to Hal, it wasn’t until after the trade deadline that this idea, originally presented to him by assistant GM Jean Afterman, came into fruition. Give this one a read, ladies and gentlemen.
Newsday | Erik Boland: In one of yesterday’s Around the Empire links, Yankees players reflected on how much A-Rod will be missed. This article continues that and goes into detail about how much of a mentor A-Rod really is. Certain players like Didi Gregorius, Luis Severino, and Gary Sanchez had nothing but praise for his wealth of baseball advice and knowledge. A-Rod has already been unofficially mentoring and welcoming a lot of players in his pinstriped tenure. If this is indeed his future with the organization, the future could be very bright.
New York Daily News | Anthony McCarron: The question of whether or not Alex Rodriguez will be in the Hall of Fame will be a topic of discussion for years to come. Another question is whether or not A-Rod should have his number retired in Monument Park. While his PED use will unquestionably be brought up, Andy Pettitte has his #46 number retired and we all know his history. Hal Steinbrenner has not ruled out the possibility either.
LoHud Yankees Blog | Chad Jennings: This article takes a look at ten particular people that have some connections to A-Rod’s retirement. From Brian McCann possibly being traded to the Yankees decision not to offer Robinson Cano a ten-year contract, Chad raised some interesting issues that can connect to Sunday’s decision.
The New York Times | Billy Witz: The Yankees will face the Boston Red Sox for three games at Fenway Park. The Red Sox and Alex Rodriguez definitely have a history together, in regards to a deal that fell through in 2003 that would have sent A-Rod to the Red Sox. He later showed up in pinstripes. Red Sox fans do not like pinstripes. The reaction to him, if he sees any playing time, should be interesting.
Pinstriped Prospects | Joe Dixon: In non-Rod related news, Bryan Mitchell made his first rehab start with the Charleston RiverDogs yesterday. Mitchell said that he felt good and that it felt good to be out there pitching again. Here’s hoping for a speedy and healthy recovery.
Baseball America | Vince Lara-Cinisomo: Finally, just a quick look at how the first round draft picks are doing thus far. Blake Rutherford is, um, okay at playing the baseball.
Fun Questions
- Which Yankees’ SS prospect do you think will really benefit from A-Rod’s wisdom?
- Name something silly that you think should be an Olympic event
Song of the Day
Pop Life by Prince
It’s Rod Week on Pinstripe Alley. This week is dedicated to A-Rod’s walk-up songs over the years. This song was one of a few Prince songs that A-Rod used after Prince’s death. It’s a great choice. As always, please link us your song of the day.