Yankees Alex Rodriguez Focused On Contributing, Not Catching Babe Ruth

The count down  for Alex Rodriguez to pass Babe Ruth on the all-time home run list is fast approaching. And at 27 away, it is in realistic reach. In a recent interview with the New York Post, ARod let his feelings on the topic be known.

"“Overwhelming,” Rodriguez told the Post. “When you start playing baseball at nine years old, you never think about tying anybody, let alone a guy like Babe Ruth,” he said."

It was surprising, if not shocking, when Rodriguez came to camp in 2015 with a humble attitude, after a turbulent and controversial offseason. But after a successful season, once again he says he is only looking to be a significant contributor.

"“My plan this year is to continue to build on what I started last year,’’ Rodriguez said this week after getting in some work in the batting cage in Florida, according to the Post. [related category]"

The challenge may be a little greater this year, however. He was able to stay healthy for much of last season by assuming the designated hitter role. But with Mark Teixeira back and the Yankees looking to get at-bats for Greg Bird, Rodriguez could find himself sharing more DH time. Even though General Manager Brian Cashman has said that Bird will open the season in Triple A, the production he showed last year certainly will have him in New York sooner, rather than later.

So catching Ruth is not ARod’s  priority. He is concentrating on helping the younger players and contributing as much as he can. And regardless of his role, Alex likes the Yankees chances this year.

"“People say we had a quiet offseason, I think it was a very good offseason, he told the Post. “Sometimes it’s about quality, not quantity. I think we got younger, our bullpen was already our strength and now it becomes dominant and has an opportunity to be an historical bullpen. All three guys are above 6-7, two lefties and a righty, these guys strike out people, they don’t walk you. It’s going to be exciting.”"