According to a source of New York Daily News writer Mark Feinsand, Alex Rodriguez grabbed a first-base glove of Mark Teixeira’s on his way out of the clubhouse Sunday, and is said to have plans to take ground balls at first base during the four-day All-Star break.
It was also reported that Rodriguez plans to work with infield coach Joe Espada starting Friday as he looks for versatility in his fielding ability. He is currently a full-time DH, and only appeared in six games last season on defense – four at third, and two at first where he didn’t look comfortable. He has not played in the field once this season.
A-Rod, who is hitting .220/.256/.382 with eight home-runs and 28 RBI, has adjusted to the DH role quite well after playing in the field for his entire career. In an article from earlier this season by Randy Miller of NJ.com, Rodriguez had the following to say:
“I actually enjoy DH a lot,” Rodriguez said. “I played the field for over 20 years and I realize that the biggest impact I can make helping us win games is by doing damage in the middle of the lineup, and DH is just a great asset for me.”
With the way Carlos Beltran has swung the bat at DH this season, the Yankees are perhaps now looking to find a way to have both A-Rod and Beltran in the lineup at the same time, while giving Teixeira and his knee some rest here and there. This would allow Rob Refsnyder to play second base or right field.
According to Feinsand’s article, Girardi said: “I liked his at-bat (Saturday),” Girardi said. “His struggles have really been against righthanders, not lefthanders. His at-bats have been better, but Ref’s at-bats have been pretty good, too. We’ll take a look at things when we get back.”
