Alex Rodriguez Gets First Hit in Spring Training

Photo Credit: Al Bello – Getty Images

In the first time since September of 2013, where he was found guilty of his involvement in the Biogenesis scandal, Alex Rodriguez found himself back in the New York Yankees lineup, batting second. As A-Rod approached the plate, the crowd applauded Rodriguez and most welcomed him back in warm arms during this spring training exhibition against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Rodriguez faced pitcher Kevin Slowey in his debut at-bat, and it was obvious Rodriguez was eager to swing now that he was back in the MLB. He found himself in a 0-2 hole after missing at two fastballs marked at 91 mph. It seemed like this was the beginning of the end for Rodriguez, that he simply would not be capable of producing this season. That he was a 39-year-old trying to make a comeback and failing. However, it all changed in a matter of seconds. On the third pitch to Rodriguez, he made great contact to pull the ball to shallow left field picking up his first hit in almost 18 months.

Rodriguez finished the day in Tampa going 1-2, as in his next at-bat would end in just one pitch, fielded cleanly by the shortstop. So now that Rodriguez has shown he can indeed hit the ball, is it going to be normal for him to swing early and not work long at=bats?

That question was answered in the bottom of the sixth, as Rodriguez entered the batter’s box for what would be his last at-bat. He started off with a 2-1 count, as this appeared to be a boom or bust type of situation. By the sounds of the fans, they were eager for A-Rod to keep swinging the bat. Surprisingly enough though, he ended up working the pitcher to a full count. The last pitch was outside, as he ended his day with a walk. It wasn’t the most exciting baseball play we’ve all seen, but working a pitcher is one of the basic concepts Rodriguez has learned throughout his career that is vital to the game of baseball. Rodriguez would then be taken out of the game and a pinch runner would come on for him on first base.

Although it is just one spring training game, it’s relieving for Rodriguez that his first hit is out of the way as he can now play with a slightly clearer mindset. With all the media attention A-Rod has been receiving this spring, I’m sure this won’t be the last we hear about him.