Only the luckiest of MLB veterans earn the title of legend. But among baseball’s most excellent stands Alex Rodriguez with his 22-season career and mind-blowing stats. The former ballplayer, best known for his time with the New York Yankees, was a regular at record-breaking.

Rodriguez was one of those rare talents that burst onto the major league scene with abundant raw talent, ready to put it to use. He further honed his skills with extensive study to become one of the best. And his overall career statistics reflect it.

Alex Rodriguez broke multiple MLB contract records

A rising star, the former Yankee, came from humble beginnings. But he had a talent and a passion, and he wanted to put both to good use. So that is what he did, entering professional baseball at age 17. Never looking back, Alex Rodriguez became A-Rod.

The YouTube channel Audioramamedia recently posted a clip of the former shortstop talking about his phenomenal achievements. “Sports Illustrated came out when I was 15, said this is the best player in the country. At 17, I get drafted, I get a $1.3 million signing bonus by Seattle. At 24, I get the largest contract in the history of the game. At 32, I re-up and do another big contract.”

In December 2000, A-Rod signed the most significant contract in MLB history worth $252 million. Then in 2007, he broke his record by signing a contract for $275 million with the Yankees. Derek Jeter’s remarkable career reached new heights with an estimated earnings haul of $480 million in 2017, encompassing salary, bonuses, incentives, and lucrative endorsement deals. 

READ MORE – Despite His Checkered Past, Alex Rodriguez Gets a Second Chance at an Elite Achievement Thanks to the MLB

Unfortunately, two years later, it all started going downhill.

Rodriguez’s drug allegations sent his career into a downward spiral

When the 2009 preseason rolled around, it brought bad news for the Bronx Bombers. Alex Rodriguez had been accused of drug use. Worse, the accusations were true, and Rodriguez had to admit his wrongdoings publicly.

His image was forever tainted. Although some fans seem to have forgiven him now, many still despise him. After all, cheating is a huge deal in sports. It’s not easily forgotten or forgiven, but at least Rodriguez seems to be doing well now.

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