We're just over the Barry Bonds chase and already the Yankees and Alex Rodriguez are thinking ahead to the next one. He's got bonus incentives in his new contract tied in with memorabilia and autographs connected to the future record.
Alex Rodriguez could land a $30 million bonus for reaching some career milestones and becoming the Yankees' partner in a memorabilia deal.
Barry Bonds didn't exactly ignite a memorabilia love-fest with his 756th home run but the New York Yankees believe Rodriguez will eventually become the next home run champion. They're already thinking ahead to the promotional and memorabilia opportunities A-Rod's own home run chase will provide in the coming years.
Reports in New York indicate he would receive $6 million each for five specific milestones achieved as a Yankee.
Rodriguez just agreed to a $275 million dollar deal, but the deal could swell to $305 million with the bonuses. The Yankees, who have a deal with Steiner Sports to distribute game-used jerseys and equipment, are ultra-conscious of the value of anything associated with the club.
While the Yankees can't specify what the six milestones are, reports indicate they would include tying and passing Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron and Bonds on the career home run list. Rodriguez currently has 518 home runs and by averaging 50 homers per season, he could pass Ruth in 2010.
