AP source: A-Rod can play during suspension appeal

By RONALD BLUM THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

11 years ago

New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez answers questions from the media during a press conference after a minor league baseball rehab start with the Trenton Thunder in a game against the Reading Fightin Phils.

New York Yankees’ Alex Rodriguez (13) backs off an inside pitch during the seventh inning of a minor league baseball rehab start with the Trenton Thunder in a game against the Reading Fightin Phils.

New York Yankees’ Alex Rodriguez (13) advances to third base on a single by Jose Pirela during the seventh inning of a minor league baseball rehab start with the Trenton Thunder in a game against the Reading Fightin Phils.

NEW YORK — A person familiar with deliberations tells The Associated Press that Major League Baseball has informed the New York Yankees that Alex Rodriguez will be suspended Monday but can play while he appeals the penalty.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Sunday because no announcement was authorized.

The Yankees were not told the exact length of the suspension, but were left under the impression it will be through the 2014 season, the person said.

Rodriguez could get a shorter penalty for violating baseball’s drug agreement if he gives up the right to file a grievance and force the case before an arbitrator, the person added.

MLB planned an announcement at noon EDT Monday, a second person familiar with the deliberations said, also on condition of anonymity because no statements were authorized.

In all, 14 players faced discipline following baseball’s probe of the Biogenesis of America anti-aging clinic.