Fansided

5 reasons the Yankees should release Alex Rodriguez

By Brad Berreman

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
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: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Durability Concerns

Rodriguez missed over three weeks in May with a hamstring issue, and he notably missed time to lower body issues in 2013 (left hip surgery) and 2011 (torn meniscus in his right knee).

The fact he plays in the field very rarely and only has to hit, or theoretically run if he put the ball in play, makes any lingering leg issues a concern attached to Rodriguez. He’s obviously not going to bounce back as quickly from injuries at over 40 years old,  that much is clear. But the slight escalation of his offensive struggles, over the past month or so, invites speculation about the recurrence of the hamstring issue from May or another hidden injury that’s sapping his ability.

There’s no real indication that Rodriguez has been unavailable to manager Joe Girardi due any sort of physical issue at any point this season. But another injury is always around the corner for someone of Rodriguez’s age, or around the next base he has to around or run through as it were. The Yankees can eliminate that concern, and perhaps make room for a younger player that can contribute more, by cutting ties with Rodriguez as soon as possible.

Next: 2. Age

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