Rodriguez getting hitting advice from Bonds, Martinez

NEW YORK (AP) - Alex Rodriguez is getting hitting tips from Barry Bonds as the New York Yankees third baseman prepares to return from a season-long suspension.

Rodriguez spokesman Ron Berkowitz confirmed the workouts, which the San Francisco Chronicle reported Wednesday took place at the Future Prospects batting cages in San Rafael, California.

"Alex has consulted numerous former players and coaches as he continues to work towards spring training including most recently Edgar Martinez who worked with him last week in Miami," Berkowitz said in an email.

Rodriguez, who turns 40 in July, is sixth on the career list with 654 homers. Bonds leads with 762.

A-Rod admitted six years ago he used banned steroids while with Texas from 2001-03, and he was suspended for last season for violations of baseball's drug agreement and labor contract.

Bonds testified in 2003 that he was not aware substances given to him by personal trainer Greg Anderson were banned performance-enhancing drugs.

New York says it plans to shift Rodriguez from third base to designated hitter. A-Rod is owed $61 million in the final three seasons of his contract with the Yankees.