Rodriguez gets first start at third base since 2013

BALTIMORE (AP) Alex Rodriguez is back at the hot corner for the New York Yankees.

A-Rod was suspended for all last season for violations of baseball's drug program and collective bargaining agreement. Thus far this year. he was designated hitter in five games and played first base against Boston on Saturday.

On Monday night against the Baltimore Orioles, however, Rodriguez was in the starting lineup at third base, where he has played most of his career.

The move was designed to provide New York third baseman Chase Headley a break.

Manager Joe Girardi said of Headley: ''He hasn't had a day and he could use it.''

Rodriguez last played third base on Sept. 10, 2013, in Baltimore.

Girardi said, ''I expect him to play the position like he knows how.''

A-Rod came in batting .300.