Alex Rodriguez (3B, NYY) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 55% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: There are a few truths that Alex Rodriguez will always be tied to. One of them is that A-Rod fits the term "professional hitter".

The 3-time MVP winner is now approaching 40 and amidst all the scandal and controversy, A-Rod is out to prove that he can still hit with or without PEDs. Rodriguez was not even guaranteed at bats upon his return in 2015 with the Yankees retaining the services of Chase Headley and picking up Garrett Jones to DH. The expectations for Rodriguez could not have been any lower this season.

A-Rod undoubtedly has a chip on his shoulder and is using it to help him reestablish himself as a power hitter. The BA has dropped from his career .299 to around .270 over the past few years but his RBI and HR totals should be extremely valuable for a player who hits in the middle of the aging Yankees lineup.

The 477-foot HR he launched earlier this season against Tampa Bay was still an impressive feat and got people talking about Rodriguez for his play on the field and not his press conferences or court room appearances off the field. Even though the speed game is gone he can still muster good contact while raking in cheap power stats for any fantasy owner looking for help.

Rodriguez is creeping his way towards being someone to consider in standard leagues especially where CI and DH slots are needed to be filled. You can comfortably expect with a healthy season and consistent at-bats around 70 RBI and 15 to 20 HR with an OPS in the .700 to .750 range.

Make no mistake he is not going to be the stalwart he was once before, but he can still turn some heads with his natural ability. If you don't want to forgive him for his transgressions off the field that is fine. But his on-field production should be taken seriously by fantasy owners.