ARod Diagnosed with Cyst

Written by: Ryan Tandy on 3rd March 2009

ARod Diagnosed with Cyst | read this item

Alex Rodriguez has developed a cyst in his right hip, according a press release issued by the Yankee organization Tuesday night. An MRI examination administered on Saturday by team physician Dr. Chris Ahmad revealed the formation of a cyst in the right hip. Dr. Ahmad determined that a follow-up examination with a hip specialist should be scheduled.

ARod will skip the World Baseball Classic and fly to Vail, Colo. on Wednesday to be examined and evaluated by Dr. Marc Phillipon, a hip specialist at Steadman-Hawkins Clinic.

“We felt it was in everyone’s best interest-for the team and the player-to send Alex to Dr. Phillipon, who is regarded as the leading expert in his field,” said Brian Cashman, New York Yankees Senior Vice President and General Manager. “Alex has proven his durability throughout his career, and we will take every precaution and step necessary to ensure his health as we near the start of the 2009 regular season and beyond.”

In spite of hip tightness and stiffness, Rodriguez played in the Dominican team’s exhibition game against the Marlins on Tuesday and went 1-for-3.

For the Yankees this spring, ARod is 4-for-7 with 5 RBIs. Should ARod not be healthy enough to start the season, the lone option at third for the Yanks is minor league journeyman Cody Ransom, the only listed backup on the depth chart.