Scott Boras defends Alex Rodriguez’s decision to leave hearing

Alex Rodriguez’s grievance hearing Wednesday turned heated after the third baseman stormed out of the proceedings upon learning the MLB commissioner Bud Selig would not be forced to testify by independent arbitrator Fredric Horowitz. Agent Scott Boras defended the actions of his former client on Fox Sports 1, saying that Rodriguez should be given the chance to face his accuser and noting “players should have the same rights as American citizens.”

Rodriguez is appealing the 211-game suspension levied upon him by Selig for his connection to the Biogenesis clinic. In an interview with WFAN’s Mike Francesa after the hearing, Rodriguez maintained his innocence, answering definitely that he never used performance-enhancing drugs, and claiming that Selig “hates my guts.” During the hearing, Rodriguez reportedly calling the hearing a “farce” before leaving. He told MLB COO Rob Manfred, who directed the Biogenesis investigation, that he is “full of shit.”

Boras and Rodriguez had a somewhat rough falling out in 2010, but given his close relationship with players, it isn’t too surprising that he is siding with the stance of the MLBPA and Rodriguez that Selig should be forced to speak.

MLB is also reportedly trying to prevent Rodriguez from taking the stand. Rodriguez canceled an investigatory interview in California on Friday, claiming he was sick. As a result, MLB believes his testimony should be disallowed.

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