Alex Rodriguez is trying to work his way back in to playing shape. Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
New York’s Alex Rodriguez will take a big step in his comeback from his PED suspension when he faces live pitching for the first time in 17 months Wednesday.
The 39-year-old Rodriguez will be in the lineup at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa when the Yankees play the Philadelphia Phillies.
“I’ll be a little nervous, for sure,” Rodriguez told ESPN Tuesday. “I haven’t been in front of our fans for a long time. I’m excited about that. I have some challenges ahead.”
The last time Rodriguez faced live pitching was Sept. 25, 2013. He will not play in the field Wednesday, although he has been taking ground balls at third base and at first.
He will face the Phillies’ right-hander Aaron Harang, who he has had good success against during his career. In eight at-bats against Harang, Rodriguez has six hits, including two home runs.
“I’m excited for [Wednesday]. Totally,” he said. “I just think it’s time. I’m ready to go. Not sure how ready, but I’ll give it a shot.”
On Monday, Rodriguez played in an intrasquad game and went 0-for-2 against a pitching machine.
He missed all of last season after being suspended for his role in the Biogenesis scandal.
Rodriguez is expected to get two or three at-bats against the Phillies.
