As if the New York Yankees didn’t already have enough problems to deal with their star third baseman, as Alex Rodriguez will reportedly need hip surgery for the second time in less than four years. The surgery could cause Rodriguez to miss part of the upcoming 2013 season.
Rodriguez previously underwent surgery on his right hip in March 2009, however this time the issue is believed to be with his left hip. Joel Sherman of the New York Post originally reported that Rodriguez was headed for surgery.
Rodriguez apparently was dealing with the injury during the playoffs, which might be the key reason he struggled mightily and eventually was a pinch-hitter for the team, along with being benched by manager Joe Girardi.
Yankees beat reporter Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News says that A-Rod will require surgery. His recovery time is scheduled for four-to-six months. Well, here is the deal with all of this.
Shortstop and Yankees captain Derek Jeter is currently rehabbing from ankle surgery, and it remains to be seen if he’s going to be ready to go on Opening Day in 2013. Rodriguez and his pending surgery now gives the Yankees major concerns about the left side of their infield. General manager Brian Cashman has his hands full.
Rodriguez is coming off a nightmare 2012 post-season and his regular season wasn’t too impressive either. He’s 37-years-old and has been in a steady decline over the last couple of years. He also has five years remaining on a contract that he’s still owed between $113-$116 million.
The Yankees already have glaring holes at right field and catcher that need to be addressed and this was expected to be priorities at the Winter Meetings. Rodriguez most likely missing the start of the 2013 season now gives Cashman one more thing to worry about with a team that’s trying everything they can to meet their 2014 budget goals.
