Alex Rodriguez has had a complicated legacy in Major League Baseball, particularly with the New York Yankees. Over his 22-year career, he hit 696 home runs, won three MVPs, a World Series, and 10 Silver Sluggers. In his 12 seasons with the Yankees, he posted Hall of Fame-worthy stats with a .283 batting average and a .900 OPS. Despite his on-field success, the organization has not yet retired his number 13 due to the up-and-down nature of his tenure.
Rodriguez has expressed that not having his number retired “bothers” him, but acknowledges that it is ultimately not his decision. He has stated that he would love for his number to be retired and that it would be a dream come true, but understands that it is up to Hal Steinbrenner and Randy Levine to make that call. Rodriguez has shown his continued support for the Yankees, regardless of their decision, and wishes for the team to win a championship in the upcoming season.
Throughout his career, Rodriguez faced both adoration and criticism from fans. He was suspended for performance-enhancing drugs in 2013, further complicating his legacy. Despite the negativity surrounding his suspension, he was able to regain some fan support by hitting 33 home runs in 2015. By the time of his last game in 2016, he received a standing ovation from the crowd, a stark contrast to the booing he had previously endured.
Following his retirement, Rodriguez has transitioned into a baseball analyst for Fox and ESPN, becoming a prominent voice in the sport. Despite the controversy and polarizing opinions surrounding his career, he has found success in his post-playing career and has become a fan favorite in his new role. The legacy of Rodriguez continues to evolve as he remains involved in the baseball world and is embraced by fans and colleagues alike.
Since Rodriguez’s retirement, no player had worn the number 13 for the Yankees until Joey Gallo in 2021. Gallo’s tenure with the team was met with mixed reactions, possibly drawing more boos than Rodriguez had at Fenway Park. Ultimately, Gallo was traded away in 2022, leaving the future of the number 13 retired jersey in question. The decision to retire Rodriguez’s number remains in the hands of the Yankees organization, as his complex legacy continues to be debated among fans and analysts.
