Report: Alex Rodriguez paid $305,000 for evidence, an allegation he denies

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Alex Rodriguez paid $305,000 for evidence that could be used in the case involving the Biogenesis of America drug clinic, the Daily News reported Saturday. The allegation was denied by a spokesman for the Yankees’ third baseman.

The newspaper said Rodriguez and his representatives confirmed the payments during testimony this week in the player’s grievance hearing. Rodriguez is attempting to overturn his 211-game suspension.

Citing an unidentified source familiar the proceedings, the News reported Rodriguez and his surrogates spent the money to purchase evidence that included videotapes, documents and affidavits.

“It’s not true and as usual not only are certain parties leaking information but they are leaking false information,” Rodriguez spokesman Ron Berkowitz said in an email to The Associated Press.

Porter Fischer, the former Biogenesis associate who gave the Miami New Times documents last winter that sparked Major League Baseball’s investigation, said in July he turned down MLB’s $125,000 offer for evidence but he did receive $5,500 in cash.

Rodriguez was suspended Aug. 5 but was allowed to keep playing pending a decision on the grievance. Arbitrator Fredric Horowitz has held eight days of hearings, and the case is to resume the week of Nov. 18.