As Yankees star Alex Rodriguez is interviewed by Major League Baseball as part of its investigation of his alleged involvement in illegal poker games, he faces more than a distraction, he faces damage to his reputation. The A-Rod poker fiasco could hurt him with baseball fans.
“Even if he has not engaged in any wrongdoing, the A-Rod poker investigation brings unnecessary distractions that could bring harm to baseball and his team and that does not go over well with fans,” says Glenn Selig, a crisis management public relations expert. “If nothing comes of it, then it will likely just blow over with fans. However, if he is suspended and did in fact cross the line, then fans will resent him because of it.”
A-Rod has developed a great reputation on the field. But athletes’ antics off the field often overshadow accomplishments, says Selig.
Think Brett Favre and Tiger Woods, Selig says.
Major League Baseball confirmed in a statement that is investigating Alex Rodriguez following reports that the New York Yankees star participated in underground, high-stakes poker games.
Alex Rodriguez faced questions in 2005 about gambling, after a newspaper reported he participated in an underground poker games in New York.
“We take this very seriously and have been investigating this matter since the initial allegation,” MLB said Wednesday in a statement. “As part of the investigation, the commissioner’s office will interview Mr. Rodriguez.”
The Yankees slugger allegedly played in two illegal poker games, one of which included a game at the Beverly Hills home of a record executive. Other players in the game reportedly involved big-name actors, according to ‘Star’ magazine.
The Yankees All-Star third baseman is recovering from knee surgery and was expected to play again within a couple weeks.
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A-Rod is a great player. What’s with these athletes and their off field antics?