• Major League Baseball

Shamed Yankees star A-Rod appeals ban

ESPN staff
August 8, 2013
Alex Rodriguez's suspension had been due to start on Thursday, but he will be allowed to keep playing until his appeal is heard © Getty Images
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Disgraced baseball star Alex Rodriguez has formally launched an appeal against his 211-game ban. He is still able to play for the New York Yankees pending the outcome.

Rodriguez said he had "no reaction" to the filing of the grievance which was made on his behalf by the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA).

"I don't think any of us thought it was going to be any different," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "As far as having a reaction, it's kind of what I expected. It's part of the process that was negotiated between MLB and the players' association, and you let it play out. I expect him to play a lot. We need him to help us."

MLPBA head Michael Weiner said Rodriguez 's punishment was "way out of line." Arbitrator Fredric Horowitz isn't expected to rule until November or December at the earliest.

Coming back from hip surgery in January, Rodriguez played his first game of the season Monday night and received a hostile reception, although he has yet to play in front of his home supporters which he will do on Friday.

"I am curious what it's going to be like," Girardi said. "I'm not sure. And I don't really know what the appropriate response is. I don't think it's my right to tell people how to respond to certain situations."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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