Alex Rodriguez apologized to top executives in the New York Yankees' organization last week and the team suggested he address the media and clear the air before spring training. He perhaps took his first step in doing so on Tuesday.
Rodriguez issued an apology letter to the fans today and accepted responsibility for his actions that ultimately resulted in his ban for the 2014 season. On the same day Rodriguez's performance-enhancing drug supplier was sentenced to four years in federal prison, A-Rod addressed the fans after attempting to fight the evidence found against him since 2013.
It's not entirely clear, but as far as sources have made known, Rodriguez is still responsible for holding a press conference with the media before pitchers and catchers report to spring training for the Yankees on Feb. 20. It was said the team would rather the three-time MVP address the media "in New York than anywhere in Tampa." The Yankees told Rodriguez he's permitted to use Yankees stadium as the site for his press conference, but the slugger said in his letter he doesn't plan on doing that.
Here's the full text of his apology, via the New York Post:
"To the Fans,
I take full responsibility for the mistakes that led to my suspension for the 2014 season. I regret that my actions made the situation worse than it needed to be. To Major League Baseball, the Yankees, the Steinbrenner family, the Players Association and you, the fans, I can only say I'm sorry.
I accept the fact that many of you will not believe my apology or anything that I say at this point. I understand why and that's on me. It was gracious of the Yankees to offer me the use of Yankee Stadium for this apology but I decided the next time I am in Yankee Stadium, I should be in pinstripes doing my job.
I served the longest suspension in the history of the League for PED use. The Commissioner has said the matter is over. The Players Association has said the same. The Yankees have said the next step is to play baseball.
I'm ready to put this chapter behind me and play some ball.
This game has been my single biggest passion since I was a teenager. When I go to Spring training, I will do everything I can to be the best player and teammate possible, earn a spot on the Yankees and help us win.
Sincerely,
Alex"