Report: Alex Rodriguez to issue public apology at spring training

Embattled New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez - who is preparing his return to baseball after serving a 162-game PED-related suspension - is expected to address the media and publicly apologize at spring training next month.

The specific nature of Rodriguez's apology is unclear, but it will apparently occur once Rodriguez arrives at the Yankees' spring training complex in Tampa Bay, according to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports.

Position players are required to report to camp Feb. 25.

The Yankees reportedly rejected Rodriguez's offer to meet with members of the front office earlier this week. Rodriguez, who sources say is training seven days a week, was apparently eager to apologize face-to-face for his role in the Biogenesis scandal prior to arriving in Florida.

"We'll see you in spring training," the Yankees reportedly told Rodriguez.

Though quiet for much of the offseason, drama surrounding Rodriguez's anticipated return is beginning to intensify. The 39-year-old is believed to have met with new commissioner Rob Manfred at MLB headquarters in New York last week to clear the air ahead of his re-entry.

The Yankees, meanwhile, continue in their efforts to drive a wedge between them and Rodriguez. A report Sunday claims the team is trying to void the $24 million in milestone bonuses written into Rodriguez's contract.