Alex Rodriguez Is Healthy, Expects To Play Third Base

Read More: alex rodriguez surgery, Alex Rodriguez (3B - NYY), Jesus Montero (DH - SEA), Michael Pineda (P - NYY), New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners

The designated hitter position for the New York Yankees became a lot more interesting when young Jesus Montero was traded to the Seattle Mariners for Michael Pineda. Alex Rodriguez, seems like a prime candidate to occupy significant time as the Yankees' DH given his recent injury problems, but the 36-year-old slugger doesn't want that to be the case. Rodriguez spoke about the DH position and the upcoming season in a recent interview with 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 also said he's healthy after off-season workouts and hopes that procedures on his knee and shoulder by a German doctor – recommended by Kobe Bryant – lead to him staying healthy for the entire 2012 season.

"I feel pretty good right now and I hope that (the procedure) helps me stay healthy and have ... a great year on the field," Rodriguez said.

A-Rod played only 99 games last season and hit 16 home runs, his lowest total since 1995.

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