A-Rod Shoulder Treated In Germany

Alex Rodriguez had the Kobe Bryant-recommended Orthokine therapy on his left shoulder as well as his right knee while in Germany earlier this month, Brian Cashman revealed.

The Yankees general manager said he saw no risk and had zero problem with the procedure on his star third baseman.

"There appeared to be no downside," Cashman said on a conference call Wednesday. "Maybe this is an avenue that helps maintain his health. There's clearly a belief system that this type of treatment is beneficial. And if it is, it was time well spent. And if it isn't, nothing ventured, nothing gained."

Lakers star Bryant recommended the procedure to Rodriguez because he had undergone it himself.

"Kobe had maintained, according to Alex, that he felt significantly better because of it," Cashman said.

Cashman said Rodriguez was interested in the procedure as long as the Yankees gave their OK. Rodriguez asked the Yankees to check on it, which prompted team doctor Chris Ahmad to research the doctor who performed it and speak to the Lakers' doctor, too. Cashman said the procedure is permitted by both the MLB and the NBA.

Rodriguez was in Dusseldorf from Dec. 5-9, when he had the procedures done. As for the shoulder, Cashman said it was bothering Rodriguez, but he did not think it was anything serious.

Rodriguez had surgery for a slightly torn meniscus in the knee in July, but Cashman said, "He had recovered we felt fully from his surgery. I think this is more about maintaining health going forward." Read more:NYPost