|
 Rodriguez entered the game as a pinch-hitter and connected in the
eighth inning at Boston's Fenway Park on what was the game-winning
blow in the New York Yankees' 3-2 victory.
Nicknamed "A-Rod", the slugger was greeted in the Yankees dugout
with high-fives and hugs, and showered with champagne in the locker
room.
"That's the first champagne bath I've had in early May in my
career." Rodriguez told reporters. "Any time that you're sandwiched
between Willie Mays and Babe Ruth is pretty special. "I am thankful
to the Yankees and Major League Baseball for allowing me to play."
The 39-year-old Rodriguez is playing his first season since being
suspended for all of 2014 due to a doping violation and has belted
six home runs so far in his comeback campaign.
The blast triggered a $6 million bonus clause in A-Rod's contract
for career milestones, though there have been reports the Yankees
may contest the payment.
Despite the controversy surrounding the slugger, Mays released a
statement congratulating Rodriguez. "Congratulations to Alex
Rodriguez on his 660th home run," Mays said. "Milestones in baseball
are meant to be broken and I wish him continued success throughout
his career."
[to top of second column] |
Former Yankee Ruth is third on the all-time list with 714 homers,
behind Hank Aaron (755) and Barry Bonds (762).
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Peter
Rutherford/John O'Brien)
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