A-Rod Declines MLB Challenge to Release Evidence

(AP) A-Rod declines MLB challenge to release evidence
By RONALD BLUM
AP Sports Writer
NEW YORK
A lawyer for Alex Rodriguez has declined Major League Baseball’s challenge to make public evidence that led to the 211-game suspension of the New York Yankees star.

MLB executive vice president Rob Manfred wrote to lawyer Joseph Tacopina on Monday, urging him to waive his client’s confidentiality so the documents could be released.

He says the league would disclose “all drug tests” and “all prior violations” tied to Rodriguez, plus any documents linked to whether Rodriguez obstructed MLB’s investigation of the Biogenesis clinic.

According to the letter, which was released by MLB, Rodriguez’s side also would be able to disclose documents.

Tacopina said in a statement that the letter was a “publicity stunt” and “a trap,” and said a waiver would need the union’s approval.

Rodriguez is playing pending his appeal, which likely won’t be decided by an arbitrator until at least November.