DETROIT, MI – OCTOBER 18: Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees reacts as he walsk back towards the dugout after he pinch hit and flied out in the top of the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers during game four of the American League Championship Series at Comerica Park on October 18, 2012 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Alex Rodriguez is calling it quits.

The New York Yankees held a press conference on Sunday where it was announced Rodriguez will retire after Friday’s home game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Immediately upon retiring, the Yankees will conditionally release the all-time great slugger and sign him as a special advisor and instructor with the club.

“The sad part is, it ended too quick, as it usually ends for most athletes who feel they can play forever,” Rodriguez told Ken Ronsethal of Fox Sports. “The great news is, I’m going to be in a role I think I’m going to enjoy. I’m also going to learn a lot. The fact that Hal asked me to do this is something that I’ll treasure.”

Rodriguez’s career has been a fascinating up-and-down tale.

The 41-year-old is one of the games all-time best power hitters, hitting 40+ home runs eight times. He spent his career with the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. After joining the Yankees in 2004, he continued his domination by posting gaudy numbers. Rodriguez, famously, was suspended the entire 2014 season for his steroid use. Upon returning from suspension, he surprised the baseball world, reviving his career in 2015 by hitting 33 home runs. In 2016, Rodriguez’s ability has flatlined. He’s batting just .204 with nine home runs in 62 games.

New York is embracing a youth movement, evident by the team’s multiple trades of talented veterans during the trade deadline. Releasing Rodriguez will give another bench spot to a youngster. A-Rod, meanwhile, can transition into a new career. It’s a mutually beneficial move.

With 696 career home runs, Rodriguez will go down as one of the best power hitters to play the game – even if there’s an asterisk beside his records.

Calling it quits won’t be easy. Going out in Pinstripes at Yankees Stadium is fitting.

About Liam McGuire

Social +Staff writer for The Comeback & Awful Announcing. Liammcguirejournalism@gmail.com