Alex Rodriguez
Dec 20, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New York Yankees baseball player Alex Rodriguez watches the San Francisco 49ers warm up before the game against the San Diego Chargers at Levi's Stadium. Reuters/Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Rodriguez was recently snubbed for the upcoming All-Star Game. The New York Yankees pitcher was reportedly not included in the exclusive list on July 6, 2015 when the All-Star pitchers and reserves for the match were announced. His other Yankees teammates, however, made the cut. According to the New York Times, first baseman Mark Teixera, reliever Dellin Betances and outfielder Brett Gardner were part of the five-man group which will be voted on by baseball fans for the final spot.

“I'm excited that we're in a good position to get there. Of course it would have been an honor to represent the American League next week, but I'll have fun cheering on the guys who were put on the team and watching them protect home field,” A-Rod stated in a report by NJ.com, adding that his number one goal really is to help the Yankees secure a championship award for themselves.

The sportsman admitted that he was "disappointed" over the decision, but that he was not really surprised. He also said he thought it would be a "long shot" if he got selected at all.

Although Rodriguez is one of the most popular MLB players, he was not a familiar face in the All-Star Games in the past few years. He last played in 2008 at Yankee Stadium. In 2010, he was selected by his manager Joe Girardi as a reserve but kept him on the bench. In 2011, he was vote to start, but missed the game due to arthroscopic knee surgery. Perhaps his 2014 suspension hurt his chances, after he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. In November 2014, after denying for a long time that he had been using drugs, he reportedly admitted getting HGH injections, testosterone lozenges and creams to help with his muscle recovery, eyesight, weight and sleep problems.

The 39-year-old might still be considered when he returns in the 2015 MLB season. He is currently hitting .284 with 16 home runs and 47 RBI.

To contact the writer of this story, send an email to v.doctor@ibtimes.com.au.

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