Suspended New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez has started to work out in preparation for his return to the team next year.

The 39-year-old, who was suspended for 162 games for doping, has been spotted working out at the University of Miami and at UCLA in Los Angeles, per The New York Post.

The controversial star is said to be hitting off a tee thought not against live pitching. He is also working in the weight rooms in a bid to return to shape.

Rodriguez still has three years left on his contract that will pay him $61 million. He has been very quiet since the suspension, preferring to shy away from the media and has limited his contact with the Yankees staff members.

He has 654 homers which is fifth on the all-time list. He will get a $6 million bonus should he get to 660.

Of course, there will be questions on his health as he has surgically repaired hips. His advanced age will also be put under the microscope. Yankees fans are also wondering if he can still play full-time at third base, or will his body limit him to just a designated hitter.

If Rodriguez can't play third base, the Yankees will still have Martin Prado to fill that gap. Carlos Beltran is also under contract for two more years, and the Puerto Rican has been the designated hitter for the Yankees this year due to an elbow issue.

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