Challenges in the Life of Alex Rodriguez in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Alex Rodriguez's life and career.

Alex Rodriguez, nicknamed "A-Rod", is a former MLB shortstop, third baseman, and designated hitter who played for the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees over 22 seasons. Once considered one of baseball's greatest talents, he is now the chairman and CEO of A-Rod Corp and chairman of Presidente beer. He is also set to acquire a controlling stake in the Minnesota Timberwolves of the NBA with Marc Lore.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2004: Beginning of Criticism Due to Yankees' Postseason Inabilities

Starting in 2004, due to the Yankees' unsuccessful postseasons, Alex Rodriguez began drawing criticism in the New York area, which continued until 2007.

2005: Beginning of Criticism Due to Yankees' Postseason Inabilities

Starting in 2004, due to the Yankees' unsuccessful postseasons, Alex Rodriguez began drawing criticism in the New York area, which continued until 2007 due to a sub .200 batting average.

2006: Beginning of Criticism Due to Yankees' Postseason Inabilities

Starting in 2004, due to the Yankees' unsuccessful postseasons, Alex Rodriguez began drawing criticism in the New York area, which continued until 2007 due to a sub .200 batting average.

2006: One of his lesser-accomplished seasons in 2006

The 2006 season was perceived as one of Alex Rodriguez's lesser-accomplished seasons, despite recording at least 35 home runs, 100 runs, and 100 RBIs for the ninth consecutive season, and he considered it his most difficult season as a professional.

2007: Beginning of Criticism Due to Yankees' Postseason Inabilities

Starting in 2004, due to the Yankees' unsuccessful postseasons, Alex Rodriguez began drawing criticism in the New York area, which continued until 2007.

2008: Criticism for Performance in Clutch Situations

In 2008, Alex Rodriguez faced criticism for his performance in clutch situations, hitting .264 with runners in scoring position and two outs.

2009: Rodriguez withdraws from World Baseball Classic due to injury

In 2009, Alex Rodriguez was scheduled to represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, but he was forced to withdraw when an MRI revealed a cyst and torn labrum in his right hip.

2009: Nickname "The Cooler" and "A-Fraud" Emerged

Prior to 2009, Alex Rodriguez received the nickname "The Cooler" because of the perceived tendency for teams to turn cold when he joins them. According to Joe Torre's 2009 book, The Yankee Years, Rodriguez earned the nickname "A-Fraud" from teammates and clubhouse attendants who resented his demands.

The Yankee Years

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2011: Rodriguez undergoes knee surgery and faces poker allegations

In 2011, Alex Rodriguez opted for arthroscopic surgery on his knee to repair a torn meniscus. He was also facing allegations that he participated in illegal poker games.

July 24, 2012: Rodriguez fractures hand and records 2,000th strikeout

On July 24, 2012, Alex Rodriguez took a hit to the hand, resulting in a non-displaced fracture and placement on the disabled list. Earlier in the same game, he recorded his 2,000th career strikeout in MLB.

2012: Rodriguez struggles in postseason

During the 2012 postseason, Alex Rodriguez struggled at the plate, batting 3-for-25 overall. The Yankees were eliminated by the Tigers in the 2012 ALCS.

January 16, 2013: Rodriguez undergoes hip surgery

On January 16, 2013, Alex Rodriguez underwent arthroscopic surgery in his hip to repair a torn labrum. It was the second time in four years that he had the surgery, although the operation was more serious than before.

August 5, 2013: Rodriguez returns to Yankees amid suspension announcement

On August 5, 2013, Alex Rodriguez made his return with the Yankees. On the same day, MLB announced he would be suspended—pending an appeal—through the 2014 season for his role in the Biogenesis scandal.

2013: Limited Play and Performance in 2013 Season

In the 2013 season, Alex Rodriguez played in only 44 games, achieving a .244 batting average with seven home runs and 19 RBI.

2014: Suspension Upheld and Role Change Announced

In 2014, Alex Rodriguez's suspension was upheld, causing him to miss the entire regular season and postseason. Following this, the Yankees announced that Rodriguez would transition from an everyday third baseman to a designated hitter due to the signing of Chase Headley.