Alex Rodriguez Suspension Looms, But Rumors Can’t Decide A-Rod’s Fate
Alex Rodriguez’s suspension looms, but rumors can’t figure out what’s actually happening to the Yankees third baseman. Last week, reports suggested the impending ban would happen before the weekend, but nothing has been confirmed as of Sunday.
In all likelihood, A-Rod will be suspended, at the very least, for the rest of the 2013 season. But rumors suggest MLB Commissioner Bud Selig will ban Rodriguez for life.
The expected punishment comes after A-Rod was linked to the Biogenesis scandal and accused of taking performance enhancing drugs. While the Yankees player initially admitted to using PEDs, he has since denied the allegations.
Rodriguez spoke about his impending suspension after Friday’s minor league rehab start, reports The New York Daily News. The star implied that the Yankees were conspiring to keep him off the field, possibly because of how much they would have to pay him if he stays.
The Yankees star is also expected to appeal his suspension, according to a statement from his lawyer. There are two ways Alex Rodriguez could be suspended from the MLB and it’s not yet clear which one the organization will choose.
Since using PEDs is a violation of the Joint Drug Agreement, it is possible MLB will use the agreement to suspend A-Rod. Since he is a first-time offender, he would be allowed to play during his appeal, notes the Philadelphia Daily News.
However, it is also possible MLB will use the collective bargaining agreement to counteract the Yankees third baseman’s appeal. If he is suspended under the CBA, he won’t be allowed to play at all. It is likely that MLB will use one or both of these agreements for the suspension.
Along with ways the suspension takes place, rumors also say Rodriguez will either be suspended for a season or completely banned from the league. While last week reports suggested a lifetime ban, they changed tunes over the weekend to suggest A-Rod may be suspended for a long period of time instead.
Whatever the case may be, it is likely questions surrounding Alex Rodriguez’s suspension from the Yankees will be solved by Monday night — hopefully.
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