5 reasons the Yankees should release Alex Rodriguez

May 5, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees designated hitter Alex Rodriguez (13) gets ready at third base during the ninth inning in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. The New York Yankees won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Money

Back in 2008, aside from any rumors or his denials about performance-enhancing drug use, we knew Rodriguez was going to be a diminished player by the end of his new 10-year, $252.8 million contract extension

That time is now finally upon us, with the Yankees due to pay Rodriguez $8 million over the rest of this season and $21 million in the final year of his contract next year.

Toward the end of July, upon his being benched against Houston Astros’ left-handed starter Dallas Kuechel, Yankees’ general manager Brian Cashman told Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News that releasing Rodriguez was “not something that’s being considered.” Feinsand also cited a source that suggested there was no chance that Rodriguez would be released, but at some point there’s diminished returns in keeping him around.

The big money he is owed complicates things, but the Yankees and Rodriguez can surely agree to to some sort of buyout that would work for both sides. As a prideful athlete, Rodriguez’s struggles surely have him thinking about effectively going home with thoughts of retirement. Clearing the books of Rodriguez’s money has little short-term benefit for the team, but continuing to carry him as dead weight on the roster is a bad idea.

Next: 4. No Viable Defensive Position

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