Former New York Yankees superstar Alex Rodriguez has a unique perspective on the Dodgers’ spending spree. Having played for teams that consistently topped payroll charts, Rodriguez told Sportico that criticizing Tucker or the Dodgers would be unfair.

“I’m thrilled for Tucker. Anytime players work hard, they have a short window to make their money. And I’m very happy for Tucker,” Rodriguez said. “Listen, it would be so hypocritical for me to dog the Los Angeles Dodgers when I played for the New York Yankees and we were spending more money than anybody.”

Can the Dodgers handle the pressure of record-breaking contracts?

Rodriguez noted that when teams spend heavily and succeed, it sets an example. “When a team does well, Mark Walter and Todd Boehly, they’ve done a phenomenal job. In many ways, they’ve been role models for my partner Marc Lore to do all the right things. The fans follow, the winning follows and everything else falls out.“

He also reflected on his own history with mega contracts, starting with his 10-year, $252 million deal with the Texas Rangers in 2000, which was the richest in sports at the time. Later, Rodriguez opted out and signed a 10-year, $275 million contract with the Yankees, another MLB record.

How do deferred salaries affect perceptions?

Rodriguez explained that structuring deals with deferred salary is common and fully within the collective bargaining agreement. “It’s a strategy that’s been used for years. Teams plan their finances and the players get their money in a structured way. There’s nothing unfair about it.”

“I have a life today that I didn’t have for the first 40 years,” Rodriguez told The Athletic. “If I went to the Hall of Fame, in a weird way, I would be hollow inside. I would still be in a lot of pain.” The reflection marked a rare moment of vulnerability from one of baseball’s most scrutinized figures.

Rodriguez also acknowledged that his legacy with many Yankees fans remains complicated, even years later. For some, his name still sparks frustration, and there is reluctance to fully credit him as a key piece of the team that captured the 2009 World Series. “I would rather have what I have today,” Rodriguez said, “because it really helped me unlock a lot of the work that I needed to do.”

A-Rod and his long-running clash with Cooperstown

Rodriguez’s complicated relationship with the Hall of Fame has surfaced before. In a FOX News interview back in November, he criticized what he called “hypocrisy” surrounding Cooperstown, pointing to former MLB commissioner Bud Selig’s induction despite overseeing the steroid era. “All of this stuff you’re talking about was under Bud Selig’s watch,” Rodriguez said during an appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s radio show.

“And the fact that those guys aren’t in, but somehow Bud Selig is in the Hall of Fame,” Rodriguez added, referencing Barry Bonds and others, “that to me feels like there’s a little bit of hypocrisy around that.” The comments reinforced his belief that the Hall’s standards remain inconsistent and selectively applied.

Others have argued Rodriguez’s case from a different angle. In a 2016 Fox Sports column, Dieter Kurtenbach wrote that Rodriguez’s failures shouldn’t erase one of the most dominant careers in baseball history, calling it “short-sighted moralizing” to exclude a player whose story is inseparable from the modern game.

Why the Hall of Fame door remains closed

Rodriguez’s résumé is historic, 14 All-Star selections, three AL MVP awards, and more than 3,000 hits, but his legacy is inseparable from performance-enhancing substance use and the Biogenesis scandal, which led to a full-season suspension in 2014. Those factors continue to weigh heavily on Hall of Fame voters.

To be inducted, a candidate must receive 75% of the vote, a threshold Rodriguez has not come close to reaching. After failing to surpass 40% in his first four appearances on the ballot, expectations remain unchanged heading into the Class of 2026, making his exclusion increasingly inevitable.

The Yankees legend shared his thoughts on Volpe‘s impact on the roster, expressing that his talent has been underutilized. “The biggest way he can impact to win is with his number one tool, which is his legs. But we’ve taken them away,” Rodriguez stated on WFAN Sports Radio.

Rodriguez further commented on the connection between Volpe and the team, emphasizing the need for winning strategies. “It’s an organizational batting philosophy that’s absolutely broken, and until they fix it, I don’t think they’ll win big,” he remarked.

With these comments, Rodriguez sent a direct message to manager Aaron Boone, highlighting the essential improvements needed from the coaching staff to unlock Volpe’s true potential on the field.

Volpe’s impact last season with the Yankees

While Volpe improved his numbers compared to his previous season with the Yankees, a series of defensive errors prevented him from making a more significant impact for the team. Although he hit seven more home runs last season compared to 2024 and achieved a career-high with 72 RBIs, certain issues did not endear him to the supporters as much as his offensive stats might suggest.

Despite this, Volpe delivered a remarkable performance in the postseason, including a memorable solo home run off ace Garrett Crochet. His contributions in that three-game series arguably made him the Yankees’ most impactful player during the playoffs.

Given his current standing, the Yankees are not considering parting ways with him. They are fully aware of his potential, as GM Brian Cashman has mentioned that Volpe will continue with the team, with the expectation that he could have a more substantial impact on the roster in the future.

Rodriguez, never one to shy away from strong opinions, labeled the 2025 Yankees “one of the worst constructions of a roster I’ve ever seen,” despite the team’s 94-win season and postseason appearance.

Jeter, meanwhile, questioned manager Aaron Boone‘s autonomy, suggesting that much of the in-game strategy comes from above. “I’m pretty sure Aaron’s not the one that’s calling every move that they make throughout the game,” Jeter said on air.

Those remarks did not go unnoticed. Cashman appeared on WFAN, the Yankees’ flagship radio station, to respond to the criticism and defend both Boone and the organization’s approach.

The longtime GM revealed he had reached out to Jeter personally, saying, “Clearly, they don’t know. I know DJ said that, I don’t know what he meant by it, he did say he doesn’t have inside knowledge when he said it, but he did say it, for whatever reason. And I think that’s the bugaboo that people get to throw out there when they got nothing else to throw.”

Cashman pushes back on “analytics” label

Cashman also took aim at the widespread perception that the Yankees are overly reliant on analytics, a narrative that has followed the organization since Boone replaced Joe Girardi in 2018. “Analytics, analytics, analytics — none of that is accurate,” he said, emphasizing that the front office uses data as one tool among many, not as a replacement for traditional baseball judgment.

Jeter and A-Rod: Old ties, new friction

The exchange adds another chapter to Cashman’s complex history with both players. Jeter, who retired in 2014 and later served as Miami Marlins president, has remained loosely connected to the Yankees but occasionally critical from afar. Rodriguez, whom Cashman re-signed to a $275 million extension in 2008, had his later years overshadowed by performance-enhancing drug scandals and off-field controversies that strained his relationship with the franchise.

Now, both Jeter and A-Rod sit on national television dissecting the organization they once led to glory. Their recent critiques highlight a broader debate about the Yankees’ direction, leadership, and reliance on front-office influence — a conversation that’s unlikely to quiet down anytime soon.

Unlike Jeter and Rodriguez, who were blunt in demanding more accountability from the organization, Boone took a more diplomatic tone, emphasizing that the team is working hard to clean things up.

“I would disagree a little bit with (Rodriguez’s) accountability factor,” Boone told Chris Kirshner of The Athletic. “…but the reality is we’re focused every day on being the best we can be, and that’s how we have to do it. I understand when it doesn’t happen and we don’t have the record I think we should have, or certainly people think we should have, that comes with the territory. It’s on us to change that, though.”

Boone accepts the criticism

Boone acknowledged that critiques—especially from names like Jeter and Rodriguez—come with the territory, particularly when the team makes costly mistakes. “When we lose games, if it’s in and around a mistake, that criticism is fair game. At the end of the day, we have the pieces to be a really good team,” he said, recognizing that scrutiny is simply part of the job.

Yankees determined to respond

With the Yankees facing a difficult stretch, Boone made it clear the team is committed to turning things around. He emphasized the need for consistency and took personal responsibility for leading that change.

“The reality is, I think we should be better than what our record is, and that starts with me,” Boone said. “We got to own that. The only way we can change that thought is by playing a more consistent brand of baseball and (winning) baseball games. That’s the only way to do it. All I know is we’re going to continue to work our tails off to prepare every day to be the best we can be.”

He added: “I want to acknowledge that we have higher expectations than what we’ve done so far, and I think we’re capable of more than we’ve done. I want to make sure we own that. There’s reasons for every single mistake. There’s not necessarily a great answer for every single mistake.”

“Where is the accountability?” Rodriguez said on FOX. “If any of us made a mistake [like Jazz] we would be sitting our **** right on the bench.” That was Rodriguez’s blunt take on the play that led to an unnecessary double play in the 2nd inning, with Chisholm at the center of it.

Rodriguez isn’t the only one calling out the Yankees. Others like Paul O’Neill and Michael Kay have also delivered sharp criticism of the team, pointing to defensive miscues and what they see as a loss of fundamental baseball.

Chisholm struggling, Yankees spiraling

The Yankees dropped another game to the Marlins — their second loss of the series — meaning they’ve already lost the set. Chisholm went 0-for-2 with a walk and a strikeout, and while the team didn’t record any official errors, the lack of focus on the field was noticeable.

Over his last 14 games, Chisholm has only managed four stolen bases, 12 hits, one home run, and six RBIs — hitting just .218 over 60 at-bats. He’s still working his way back from injury, but he hasn’t looked like the same player.

Yankees in a tough spot

New York currently sits third in the AL East at 60-51, trailing both the Red Sox and Blue Jays. That puts them in the second Wild Card spot — behind Boston and narrowly ahead of the Mariners.

The Yankees have made an impressive comeback in the regular season after enduring a challenging stretch of games in June. Fueled by Judge’s exceptional leadership and the return of key injured players to the roster, the Yankees have successfully regained their competitive edge.

While Judge etched his name into the annals of MLB history with unique achievements for the Yankees, it was Chisholm Jr. who drew attention by equaling a notable accomplishment held by Rodriguez, inching closer to a legendary benchmark established by MLB icon Babe Ruth. In a recent showdown against the Toronto Blue Jays, Chisholm Jr. belted his 25th home run.

This remarkable home run allowed Chisholm Jr. to match Rodriguez as one of the players with the most home runs (HRs) and stolen bases (SBs) in franchise history during their first 100 games donning the Yankees’ pinstripes. With 28 stolen bases this season, Chisholm Jr. has even surpassed Ruth, who hit more homers (39) during his initial 100 games but only registered 11 stolen bases.

Top 3 achievements in first 100 games with Yankees:

• Babe Ruth: 39 HR | 11 SB
• Alex Rodriguez: 25 HR | 19 SB
• Jazz Chisholm Jr.: 25 HR | 28 SB

Chisholm’s impact since returning from injury

Since his return to the lineup following an injury at the end of April, Chisholm Jr. has demonstrated he is primed for the challenges ahead, as the Yankees aim for the MLB title this season. Rejoining in game 59, Chisholm Jr. has delivered impressive performances on the field.

In his comeback starting the first week of June, Chisholm Jr. has notched 7 home runs and driven in 19 RBIs. He has also swiped four bases since returning. His overall contributions include 28 hits and 15 runs scored, underscoring his vital role in the team’s lineup.

Judge’s remarkable season stats

When it comes to shattering records and reaching historic milestones, Aaron Judge has been exceptional this regular season. Joining the ranks of legends like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle with his achievements, Judge’s performance has been nothing short of phenomenal.

Here are Judge’s stats so far in the regular season:

• Games (G): 81 (The Yankees have played 81 games, so he’s played in every one)
• Plate Appearances (PA): 365
• At-Bats (AB): 287
• Batting Average (AVG): .310 (This is a significant improvement from his career average, showing exceptional hitting this season)
• On-Base Percentage (OBP): .435 (Leading MLB in this category)
• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .700 (Leading MLB in this category, indicating massive power)
• Home Runs (HR): 36 (He is comfortably leading MLB in home runs, putting him on pace for a historic season)
• Runs Batted In (RBI): 89 (Leading MLB in RBIs)
• Runs (R): 78 (Among the league leaders)
• Doubles (2B): 17
• Triples (3B): 1
• Walks (BB): 70 (He leads MLB in walks, demonstrating his patience and ability to get on base)
• Strikeouts (SO): 105 (While high, it’s typical for a power hitter of his caliber)
• Stolen Bases (SB): 4

The home run is baseball’s ultimate moment—the instant when the stadium erupts and the ball vanishes into the night. But not all are the same. Some define careers, others shatter records and a select few become the stuff of legend.

From Babe Ruth forever changing the game with his prodigious power to Barry Bonds rewriting history with 762 home runs, the league’s greatest sluggers have left an indelible mark on the sport. But who are the all-time home run leaders?

This journey through baseball’s most prolific sluggers not only celebrates their staggering numbers but also the stories and legacies they’ve etched into the heart of the game, leaving an everlasting impact on MLB history.

13. Mickey Mantle – 536 HR

Known as “Big Mac”, Mark McGwire left an unforgettable mark on baseball with his impressive power at the plate. Debuting in 1986, he quickly made an impact, setting a rookie record with 49 home runs in 1987—a mark that stood until 2017.

His most memorable season came in 1998 when he hit 70 home runs, breaking the single-season record at the time. Over his career, he amassed 583 home runs, cementing himself as one of the most feared sluggers of his era.

12. David Ortiz – 541 HR

Nicknamed “Big Papi”, David Ortiz became a Boston Red Sox icon and one of the most prolific designated hitters in MLB history. Debuting in 1997, he found his greatest success after joining the Red Sox in 2003.

With 541 career home runs, he played a crucial role in securing three World Series titles for Boston. On September 12, 2015, he reached the 500-home run milestone, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest sluggers of all time.

11. Mark McGwire – 583 HR

Mickey Mantle, a New York Yankees legend, is remembered for his combination of power and speed. Playing his entire career with the Yankees from 1951 to 1968, he hit 536 home runs, many of them traveling prodigious distances that fueled his myth. Despite injuries that plagued his career, he was selected to 20 All-Star Games and won three American League MVP awards, leaving an indelible mark on baseball history.

10. Frank Robinson – 586 HR

Frank Robinson was one of the most complete hitters in baseball history, combining power, consistency, and leadership. Playing from 1956 to 1976, he hit 586 home runs and became the first player to win the MVP award in both the National League (1961) and the American League (1966).

His 1966 season with the Baltimore Orioles was legendary, as he won the Triple Crown and led the team to its first World Series title. Beyond his accomplishments as a player, he made history as the first Black manager in MLB, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

9. Sammy Sosa – 609 HR

Born in the Dominican Republic, Sammy Sosa became an international sensation during the 1998 home run chase, battling Mark McGwire for the single-season record. That year, he finished with 66 home runs and went on to total 609 over his career.

A seven-time All-Star and the 1998 National League MVP, his energy and enthusiasm made him a beloved figure in Chicago and beyond. His role in revitalizing baseball during the late 1990s cemented his legacy as one of the game’s most dynamic sluggers.

8. Jim Thome – 612 HR

Known for his humility and prodigious power, Jim Thome became one of the most respected sluggers of his generation. Playing from 1991 to 2012, he hit his 500th career homer on September 16, 2007.

His patient approach at the plate, combined with his ability to hit towering home runs, made him a vital asset to every team he played for. A five-time All-Star, he was celebrated for both his offensive achievements and his sportsmanship.

7. Ken Griffey Jr. – 630 HR

With his smooth left-handed swing and infectious smile, Ken Griffey Jr. was one of baseball’s most popular players. Debuting in 1989, he reached the 500-home-run milestone on June 20, 2004.

A 13-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner, “Junior” was not only a feared power hitter but also one of the best defensive center fielders of his era. Despite injuries limiting his later years, His impact on the game and his effortless power made him a fan favorite and Hall of Famer.

6. Willie Mays – 660 HR

Nicknamed “The Say Hey Kid”, Willie Mays is widely regarded as one of the most complete players in baseball history. Playing from 1951 to 1973, he blended power, speed, and defensive brilliance to compile 660 career home runs.

In addition to his offensive prowess, he was a 12-time Gold Glove winner and a 24-time All-Star, making his mark as one of the greatest center fielders ever. His electrifying style and charisma made him a beloved figure in the sport.

5. Alex Rodriguez – 696 HR

Alex Rodriguez, known as “A-Rod”, combined power, speed, and fielding ability to become one of MLB’s premier sluggers. Debuting in 1994, he reached his 500th career home run on August 4, 2007, becoming the youngest player to achieve the feat at just 32 years and eight days old.

A 14-time All-Star and three-time American League MVP, he was an offensive force throughout his career. While his legacy was clouded by controversy, his impact on the game remains undeniable.

4. Albert Pujols – 703 HR

Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Albert Pujols established himself as one of the most feared and consistent hitters of his generation. Debuting in 2001, he quickly proved his offensive dominance, reaching the 500-home-run milestone on April 22, 2014.

Throughout his illustrious career, he was an 11-time All-Star and a three-time National League MVP. Known for his impeccable work ethic and dedication to the game, he sustained an elite level of play for over two decades, solidifying his place among baseball’s all-time greats.

3. Babe Ruth – 714 HR

George Herman “Babe” Ruth is perhaps the most legendary figure in baseball history. Playing from 1914 to 1935, he revolutionized the game with his unparalleled power, smashing 714 home runs at a time when such numbers were unheard of.

He became the first player to reach the 500-home-run milestone on August 11, 1929, setting a standard for future sluggers. Beyond his offensive prowess, he began his career as a dominant pitcher before transitioning into the game’s first true power hitter, forever altering baseball’s trajectory.

2. Hank Aaron – 755 HR

Affectionately known as “Hammerin’ Hank”, Hank Aaron‘s 755 career home runs stood as the MLB record for over three decades. Playing from 1954 to 1976, he was the model of consistency, recording 20 or more home runs in 20 consecutive seasons—an unparalleled achievement.

On April 8, 1974, he surpassed Babe Ruth’s long-standing record with his 715th homer, a moment that transcended sports as Aaron faced racism and adversity while chasing history. His resilience and excellence on the field made him an icon, both in baseball and in American culture.

1. Barry Bonds – 762 HR

Barry Bonds stands as Major League Baseball’s all-time home run king, amassing 762 career homers. His career, spanning from 1986 to 2007, was defined by an exceptional combination of power, plate discipline and athleticism.

In 2001, he shattered the single-season home run record with an astonishing 73, a feat that remains unmatched. A 14-time All-Star and seven-time National League MVP, he was both feared and revered for his ability to change a game with one swing. Despite the controversies surrounding his later years, his dominance at the plate cemented his legacy as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history.

Rodriguez, a three-time American League MVP, has a unique connection to Mahomes. During his time with the Texas Rangers, he played alongside Patrick’s father, Pat Mahomes, a former MLB pitcher. That bond led to an early encounter between Rodriguez and a young Mahomes, which the former slugger recently reminisced about on Instagram.

Before the Super Bowl, Rodriguez posted a throwback photo of himself with Mahomes as a child and shared a memorable story from his time in Texas. According to Rodriguez, Mahomes was already fascinated by the work ethic of elite athletes at a young age.

“I was working the other day after hitting plenty of home runs, and Patrick asked, ‘Why are you working so hard today if you just hit all those home runs?’ I told him, ‘You are only as good as what you do after greatness,’“ Rodriguez recalled.

In the caption of his Instagram post, Rodriguez playfully acknowledged that Mahomes ultimately chose the right path by pursuing football. “I’m so glad Patrick Mahomes didn’t listen to me! But in all seriousness, this story still gives me goosebumps,” he wrote.

Chiefs star’s baseball roots have been well documented, and his father’s MLB career undoubtedly played a role in shaping his athletic journey. While he could have followed in his dad’s footsteps, Mahomes instead became one of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks—an evolution that even Rodriguez can’t help but admire.

Rodriguez reflects on Mahomes’ baseball roots

Ahead of Sunday’s pivotal matchup, Rodriguez shared insights into Patrick Mahomes’ deep connection to baseball before ultimately choosing football. The Yankees legend reminisced about watching Mahomes develop as a young player.

“From watching Pat as a little kid at batting practice to seeing him go for the three-peat on Sunday, it has been incredible to witness his journey and see him grow into one of the best athletes of this generation. Good luck out there this weekend, Pat!” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez’s legacy in MLB

Yankees legend solidified his place among baseball’s all-time greats with a legendary career, particularly with the Yankees. A 14-time All-Star and three-time American League MVP, Rodriguez played a key role in the Yankees’ most recent World Series title in 2009, cementing his status as one of the franchise’s most iconic players.

Despite his 2014 suspension, Rodriguez remains one of the most recognizable figures in Yankees history. His on-field accomplishments speak for themselves, 1,012 RBIs and 351 home runs underscore his dominance at the plate, leaving an indelible mark on Major League Baseball.

As a passionate sports fan, Mahomes has previously shared his picks in other leagues, including the NBA, where he named his favorite player of all time. He has also opened up about his interests and hobbies outside of football.

Meanwhile, as MLB’s offseason unfolds, several teams are making key acquisitions to strengthen their rosters ahead of the 2025 season. Among them are the New York Yankees, who are aiming to build on their impressive 2024 campaign and push for even greater success.

Interestingly, Mahomes’ favorite MLB player hails from the Bronx. When asked by the Chiefs‘ communications team, he named former Yankees legend Alex Rodriguez as his top pick. While Mahomes didn’t elaborate on his reasoning, his selection comes as Rodriguez continues his pursuit of a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Rodriguez’s legacy in MLB

Alex Rodriguez cemented his place among baseball’s all-time greats with a storied career, particularly with the Yankees. A 14-time All-Star, three-time American League MVP, and a key contributor to the Yankees’ most recent World Series title in 2009, Rodriguez exemplified the star power of baseball in the Bronx.

Despite his 2014 suspension, Rodriguez remains one of the most recognizable figures in Yankees history. Beyond his high-profile personal life, his numbers speak for themselves—1,012 RBIs and 351 home runs highlight his dominance at the plate.

Mahomes’ favorite hobby off the field

Chiefs QB versatility as a quarterback extends beyond football. In the conversation with the Chiefs’ communications team, Mahomes revealed an unexpected passion—ping pong.

“Most people don’t know this, but I love playing ping pong as a hobby, and I’m pretty good at it,” Mahomes shared. Given his high football IQ and elite vision on the field, it’s no surprise that his competitive instincts translate well to other sports.

The NFL and MLB have long had crossover connections, with many players openly supporting teams from both leagues. While Mahomes didn’t disclose his favorite baseball team in the video, he has been seen throwing a ceremonial first pitch for the Kansas City Royals, hinting at his allegiance.

Rodriguez is widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters in Yankees history. The three-time MVP (two with the Yankees, one with the Rangers), 14-time All-Star, and 2009 World Series champion remains a towering figure in the MLB world.

Beyond his accolades, Rodriguez had a remarkable 22-year MLB career, spending 12 seasons with the Yankees, seven with the Mariners, and three with the Rangers. During his time with each franchise, he crossed paths with some of the game’s most iconic players, building relationships with figures who defined MLB history.

Speaking with NASCAR legend Kevin Harvick on his podcast in 2024, Rodriguez revealed the three all-time leaders he admired most during his career—one for each team he represented. “In my days in Seattle, I’ll go with Edgar Martinez. In my days in Texas, I’ll go with Michael Young. And then, during my time in New York, I’d say it’s kind of a split between Mariano Rivera and Andy Pettitte,” Rodriguez shared.

Former Yankees teammate shares insight on Rodriguez

Although Robinson Cano wasn’t on the list of players Rodriguez recently named, the former Yankees second baseman knew Rodriguez well. Both players spent nine seasons as teammates in New York. Their bond extended beyond the field, and Canó recently shared a memorable story about the Yankees legend.

Speaking on the El Roble Al Natural podcast, Cano recalled an amusing nickname Rodriguez used for him and a unique ritual during their time with the Yankees. “The only player who always called me ‘rookie’ was Alex,” Cano said. “When I first arrived in New York, he’d say, ‘Hey Rookie, bring me some coffee.’ The funny thing is, I actually enjoyed doing it.”

Cano continued: “I liked bringing him coffee because he always carried a little bag where he kept his cash. Whenever I brought him something he asked for, he’d say, ‘Here, take $500.’ When you saw us in the bullpen jumping around, it was because every time he pulled out that $500, we’d celebrate like crazy.”

Rodriguez’s career stats and legacy

Despite being suspended for the entire 2014 season due to PED use, Rodriguez’s career numbers cement his legacy as one of baseball’s all-time greats. The three-time MVP and 14-time All-Star recorded 3,115 hits, 696 home runs, and a 117.5 career WAR (Wins Above Replacement).