A-Rod reports to camp early: 'I've paid a price personally and professionally'
The Bronx Zoo has arrived in Tampa, Fla.
Alex Rodriguez officially returned to baseball Monday after reporting to spring training three days early, completing his physical and a brief workout at the New York Yankees' minor-league spring training complex. Yankees position players aren't required to report to camp until Feb. 25.
Rodriguez - who missed the entire 2014 season after serving the longest suspension in baseball history - arrived at camp decked out in University of Miami apparel before hitting the diamond for infield work followed by a round of batting practice in front of a horde of reporters.
After taking grounders at third base, and even shortstop, the embattled slugger crushed six pitches over the fence at George Steinbrenner Field during a 71-swing session.
Following his workout, the three-time MVP once again addressed his troubled past, and insisted he's no longer aided by performance-enhancing drugs.
"I'm confident that if I stay healthy, I can do some good things," Rodriguez said in response to whether he thinks he can succeed without PEDs. "Right now I'm just focused on making this team. Obviously it was a rough year, but I'm very excited that's behind me."
Rodriguez, who's owed $61 million over the next three seasons, spent 10 minutes signing autographs for fans before addressing reporters. When asked to elaborate on the mistakes he referenced in his apology letter to fans last week, Rodriguez reiterated he's ready to move on.
"We don't have enough time for that," he said. "There were plenty of mistakes. I cringe sometimes. I've paid a price personally and professionally ... I'm moving on and focused for 2015."
According to an ESPN report, Rodriguez showed up before Yankees brass knew he would, further angering his bosses. Andrew Marchand writes:
On Monday, A-Rod showed up under the hot Florida sun, three days early and a couple of phone calls short. After vowing open communication, some of us in the media found out he was showing up before the Yankees' hierarchy knew. This is not the way to start fresh.
As for Chase Headley, who the Yankees signed to play third base, the 39-year-old Rodriguez kept things diplomatic.
"Chase is an excellent addition to our team."