Alex Rodriguez Stats

Since he came into the league in 1994 with the Seattle Mariners, Alex Rodriguez’s statistics have put him on a collision course with history. It is possible that had he not made the switch to third base when he joined the New York Yankees, he would have shattered nearly every statistical mark for a shortstop. His numbers are unheard of when it comes to shortstops and epic when compared to other third basemen.

1. Age and perception His time at third may be limited by A-Rod’s age, as he will be 36 in July 2011. He has had hip surgery and multiple issues with the repaired hip; his mobility has been limited. Though his numbers are exceptional and in the “first ballot” category, his switch to third base, history of performance enhancing drug use and questionable public perception may hurt his Hall of Fame chances.

2. Accomplishments Alex Rodriguez joined and elite group of four Major Leaguers in 1998 when he hit 40 homeruns and stole 40 bases. Only Jose Canseco, Barry Bonds and Alfonso Soriano can also claim membership on the 40/40 club. Deserved or not, there has been a perception of Alex Rodriguez not being clutch and under performing in the playoffs. In reality, his numbers in the post season are quite good with a .290 batting average, thirteen home runs and a respectable slugging percentage of .528. He has a World Series ring to his credit from the New York Yankees title run of 2009.

3. Memorable moments A-Rod made twelve All-Star game appearances and was the starting short stop for the American League team for Cal Ripken’s last appearance in 2001. Before the game began, he honorably moved to third base and gestured for Cal Ripken to return to the position where he inspired Alex Rodriguez to become a short stop. It was one of the most memorable moments in All-Star game history.

4. Awards Alex Rodriguez’s statistics have garnered him three Most Valuable Player awards and ten Silver Slugger awards. He also has a batting title for his .358 mark in 1996 and led the league in runs scored six different times. His other accomplishments include leading the league in home runs six different times, leading RBIs two times and winning two Gold Gloves. A-Rod has a career batting average of .303 with an OPS of .960. His 618 home runs put him sixth on the all-time list and his 1848 RBIs put him twelfth.