New York, NY

Alex Rodriguez insists on playing for the New York Yankees despite a bevy of criticism coming from members of the organization.

Recovering from hip surgery that has sidelined him the entire season, the three-time MVP received sharp criticism from Yankees general manager Brian Cashman for contradicting the team's statements by saying he's been cleared to play.

There were talks that he wanted to get hurt again so he could cash in from retirement.

He is also facing allegations that he received performance-enhancing substances from a Biogenesis clinic in South Florida.

All of these led to a clamor for him to quit and reach a settlement over the $114 million the Yankees owe him over the next five years.

While he admits that his decision may sound stupid to some, he says his competitive spirit dictates that he stays with the Yankees, avoid making trade demands, and prepare himself to play his best as soon as he can.

"I know people think I'm nuts," Rodriguez told USA Today. "But I'm the [expletive] crazy man who goes, 'I want to compete. I want to stay in New York. I refuse to quit.'

The 37-year-old Rodriguez, who has 647 career home runs, wakes up at 6 a.m. for early-morning workouts that sometimes lasted until 5 p.m., according to strength and conditioning coach Mike Kicia.

Rodriguez, the highest paid player in the league's history, blames no one but himself for his decline the last few years, particularly his struggles in last year's playoffs. He hit .120, just three singles in 25 at-bats,forcing manager Joe Girardi to pinch-hit for him three times in crucial situations, and bench him in three other games.

"I'm the first one to say last year that I stunk," Rodriguez says. "It was a bloodbath. I'm not running away from that.

Rodriguez has so far played in a few minor league rehab games and said he'll need about 20 before being ready to return to the majors.

 

 

Article: "A-Rod Says He'll Keep Playing his Best for Yankees"