Alex Rodriguez injury: Yankees 3B cleared to run on treadmill

New York Yankees manager Joe Girardi told reporters -- including Bryan Hoch of MLB.com -- that third baseman Alex Rodriguez has been cleared to begin running slowly on a treadmill.

Girardi added that Rodriguez is "pretty fired up" about being able to resume running, even if it's not yet at full capacity. The veteran slugger has been recovering from a hip injury since undergoing major surgery in January. He's been able to run without experiencing any pain or discomfort in his hip.

Rodriguez attempting cover-up?

A-Rod once again finds himself in the middle of PED-related controversy.

While this is good news on the Rodriguez recovery front, the third baseman isn't expected to return to the team until around the All-Star break. In his absence, the Yankees have used offseason acquisition Kevin Youkilis to man the hot corner.

Rodriguez has been in statistical decline over the past several seasons, but he's hoping that the winter procedure will allow him to increase his production after he returns. Last year the 37-year-old hit .272/.353/.430 with 17 doubles and 18 home runs over 529 plate appearances.

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