Alex Rodriguez no longer resides in the Bronx, raising the question of whether his playing days are truly over.
Alex Rodriguez is officially a former New York Yankee.
While many may misconstrue his unconditional release as a retirement announcement, do not be surprised in the slightest if the 41-year-old pursues a career continuation.
In fact, every time he was asked whether Friday was his final game, he did not answer the question directly. In other words, he refused to give a “yes” or a “no.”
At 696 career home runs, it is awfully tough to believe that a baseball icon will not attempt to reach 700 — a mark only three men have reached.
His Yankee career is history, but his baseball career has not been written off. A-Rod is an MLB free agent who can play for a penny. Being that the Yanks owe him $27 million through the end of next year, any team can bring him in for virtually nothing.
He will sell tickets, generate buzz, and, at his finest, can be a presence in the middle of the order. Why not roll the dice?
With that said, let’s take a look at a few of the teams that might dial his number in an attempt to give him one final shot prior to his advising role in 2017.
Texas Rangers
A place where he hit 156 home runs from 2001-2003, taking home the ’03 AL MVP, Texas will be an attraction.
Additionally, the Rangers are a contending team that has the luxury of a designated hitter along with the leeway to bring another bat aboard.
2016 may feature limited opportunities, but you can even think in terms of 2017 with A-Rod. Carlos Beltran will come off the books at the end of the season, letting him chase 700 as Texas’ DH.
A-Rod’s new job as special advisor with the Yankees does not prohibit him from playing with another major league club. If he finishes 2016 with a team, there is a strong chance he can return in 2017 as well.
Seattle Mariners
As the organization he burst upon the scene with, Rodriguez certainly has a soft spot for Seattle.
If you believe in things coming full circle, he will eclipse 700 home runs with the Mariners. The M’s are currently in contention — two games out of the second AL Wild Card — but can definitely add some depth offensively.
With his consistent power production immediately in question, A-Rod would not play frequently by any means. However, it is nice to entertain the possibility of an old partnership being reunited.
Not for nothing, Safeco Field will sell out night after night with not only a playoff chase but an attempt at history.
Tampa Bay Rays
Let’s be honest here: the Tampa Bay Rays have absolutely nothing to play for.
This a prime example of a potential two-month showcase. Tampa is 47-69, 19 games off the pace in the AL East, and 17 games out of a playoff spot. The season is over.
Furthermore, no one comes to Tropicana Field. Not only is the place a dump, but the team is dreadful as well.
A-Rod would not factor into their plans in 2017, but this is a team that could use some ticket sales for the remainder of this season, effectively boosting their payroll.
Rodriguez would be cheap — which is important for their franchise — and would be able to draw a decent crowd every time he was penciled into the lineup. If he got to 698 or 699, they might actually be able to sell out games.
Additionally, Tampa is situated in A-Rod’s home state.
This move makes sense logically and financially.
Miami Marlins
The Marlins are the team everyone is honing in on with regards to Rodriguez. It has already been reported that the franchise has had internal discussions about the recently released slugger.
Given that he grew up in Miami, Rodriguez would be most intrigued by a pitch coming from the Marlins. Placing an emphasis on spending time with his family, particularly his two daughters, he would be close to home.
The one issue that comes about is the National League style of play. All three aforementioned teams can DH him, but the Marlins cannot.
A-Rod would likely have to adapt to an alternate position — perhaps first base — to be useful with a body featuring limited mobility.
Regardless of the circumstances, he would undoubtedly bring the most buzz to Miami.
Emmanuel Berbari covers the New York Yankees & Major League Baseball for ESNY. Interact with him and view his daily work by “liking” his facebook page. He invites you to email any questions, comments, or concerns as well.