Alex Rodriguez to be released by Yankees, ending controversial career

• Fourteen-time All-Star brings end to career that started in 1994
• A-Rod leaves MLB with 696 home runs and .295 batting average
• Career was dogged by controversy around PED use

Alex Rodriguez, one of the most talented and controversial players in the history of baseball, will be released on Friday by the New York Yankees effectively ending his playing career.

He will take up an advisory role with the team after his final game on Friday night.