The iconic former Major League player and key figure of the New York Yankees, Alex Rodriguez, recently shared his experiences and perspectives on baseball in a revealing interview.
Manny Ramirez and Albert Pujols: The Best Hitters
Rodríguez did not hesitate to express his admiration for Manny Ramírez, whom he considers the best right-handed hitter he has seen. He highlighted that his opinion is based on the experience of having played with Ramírez and also with Albert Pujols. For Rodríguez, both players are at the top of baseball history.
“His name is Manny Ramirez. And I don’t say that just because I played with him too much, but also with Albert Pujols. For me, they are one and two in history”
Alex Rodriguez
The 2009 Championship: An Unforgettable Moment
Rodríguez recalled the most significant moment of his career: the Yankees’ victory in the 27th championship, on November 3, 2009, against the Philadelphia Phillies.
“All the reasons I went to the Yankees was to bring a championship to New York. I remember Mariano Rivera pitching, Jorge Posada behind the plate, and Robinson Canó making the last out… there were all my childhood dreams”
Alex Rodríguez
An Unexpected Episode
The former player also shared an anecdote from 1996, when the opposing manager, Davey Johnson, requested a review of his bat in the middle of a batting turn. Rodriguez, in the midst of an outstanding offensive streak that would lead him to win the batting title that year, faced the situation with determination.
“I knew it was a mind game. The umpire told me, ‘Alex, I’m sorry, I have to take the bat.’ They confiscated it, sent it to the Commissioner’s office, but in the end I used another one and hit a home run anyway”
Alex Rodriguez
Tips for Young Talents
Rodríguez offered inspiring advice to young aspiring baseball players, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with positive people and focusing on personal growth.
“I always say that you are the average of the five people you surround yourself with. Surround yourself with good people, because that defines who you are and who you will be.”
Alex Rodriguez
Alex Rodriguez concluded his speech with words of respect for baseball figures like David Ortiz and Pedro Martinez, urging the new generations to take care of their surroundings and stay focused if they want to achieve success in professional baseball.
