Alex Rodriguez said he doesn’t plan on being the permanent solution to Yankees’ vacancy at designated hitter.
“I think the vision for us as a team is now … you want the DH spot to be one that’s kind of a revolving door,” Rodriguez told ESPN Deportes. “I think a lot of us at some point or another, in such a long season, are going occupy that spot.
“But for me, I’m really excited about playing third base.”
Rodriguez played in just 99 games during the 2011 season because he was hampered by knee and hip injuries. During the offseason, he visited a German doctor who also had treated Lakers star Kobe Bryant.
“I feel pretty good right now and I hope [the procedure] helps me stay healthy and have … a great year on the field,” Rodriguez said. “My workouts are going great, and I’m looking forward to report day on Feb. 24 [to] get started and have a great year for the Yankees.”
The DH position is open because the Yankees traded Jesus Montero to the Mariners for pitcher Michael Pineda.
“It’s a good trade for both teams. … Jesus is a guy who has a lot of power and a lot of potential and is going to help out their team a lot,” Rodriguez said. “… For us, we get exactly what we need — one of the best young pitchers in the game with an electric arm and great size.”