A-Rod Goes 0-for-3 In Second Rehab Game
DUNEDIN, Fla. (AP) — New York Yankees star Alex Rodriguez was the designated hitter for his second minor league rehabilitation game and went 0 for 3 with a walk on Saturday night.
The original plan was for Rodriguez, who had right knee surgery on July 14, to play five or six innings at third base for Class-A Tampa against Dunedin. A-Rod was the third-place hitter after going through a pregame session that included throwing in the outfield, fielding 31 grounders at third and taking 50 swings in batting practice.
Rodriguez said there was no setback that kept him from playing at third.
"A more natural progression for me," Rodriguez said. "We've been doing a lot of work down here. I just thought another day at DH was wise."
Rodriguez will take part in a simulated game on Sunday at the Yankees' minor league complex, which will include work at third.
"We're just going to let it fly a little bit," Rodriguez said.
The Yankees have not ruled out Rodriguez rejoining the team for a series that starts Thursday at Minnesota.
Rodriguez struck out swinging in the first and took a 93 mph fastball for a called third strike in the fourth against second-year pro Drew Hutchison.
Rodriguez drew a walk against Hutchison on a 3-2 pitch in the sixth. He advanced to third on a pair of singles before scoring on an infield grounder.
The three-time AL MVP grounded out against Matt Daly to end the seventh. As he returned to the dugout, Rodriguez gave his bat to a young fan is the stands. He also signed autographs for fans en route to the clubhouse.
Rodriguez went 2 for 3 as the DH in his first game Friday night, including a long home run in the first and a third-inning double, on which he ran tentatively from the plate to second.
Rodriguez did look as if he was running somewhat better Saturday.
"Another positive day moving forward," Rodriguez said. "Anytime you don't have a setback is a good day."
Also, Yankees right-hander Jeff Marquez, on the disabled list since June 22 because of a right shoulder injury, allowed one run and five hits in five innings.
