MLB legend Alex Rodriguez reveals the foods he keeps in his kitchen fridge
Alex Rodriguez, the former New York Yankees outfielder who earned the nickname “A‑Rod” and won three MVP awards, recently opened up about how his diet has changed now that he’s retired from professional baseball. In a video interview with Men’s Health, the 51‑year‑old former star and current businessman described the foods that fill his Los Angeles refrigerator, the snacks he keeps on hand, and the ways he still “feels like a pro” even though he hasn’t swung a bat in ten years.
A diet that used to be a marathon
Rodriguez recalled that during his 25‑year career he ate “a lot more.” He used to have six meals a day that included large portions of steak, potatoes, rice, and beans, noting that a full‑time athlete burns a massive amount of calories playing 162 games a season. “You’re burning so much calories when you’re playing 162 games,” he told the magazine, explaining that his body demanded a constant stream of fuel.
A lighter, healthier plate
Today, the former MLB star says he eats three to four meals a day, often supplementing with protein shakes. He no longer over‑eats; instead, he acknowledges that he “probably under‑eat,” a habit he says can be unhealthy. He emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated, drinking plenty of water—some sparkling, but not “too much”—and adding healthy proteins, fruit, and greens to his menu.
Rodriguez’s fridge is stocked with fresh produce, including spring mix, bananas, apples, oranges, blueberries, strawberries, and broccoli, plus staples such as eggs, oatmeal, and hummus for a late‑night snack. “Very important,” he says, referring to fruit. He still keeps a few “pop sodas” for visitors, but he quit soft drinks five years ago.
The pantry and the late‑night cravings
While the freezer is full of wholesome options, the pantry houses an assortment of salty, greasy foods. “Barbecue chips, Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, Corn Nuts and cashews—this is where I do my best work at 2 a.m.” Rodriguez jokes, admitting he sometimes eats while lying in bed. He calls himself a “chips expert” and, as part of his usual snack lineup, keeps peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on hand for quick pre‑game or comfort meals.
His breakfast routine is simple: eggs, oatmeal, bacon, a glass of orange juice, and plenty of water. Lunch is usually a salad with balsamic vinaigrette and chicken or fish, while dinner might be steak or salmon with sweet‑potato fries—though he humorously notes he “doesn’t cook any of it, I’d probably start a fire.” He says he enjoys a large steak with sweet potato or sushi after a big win.
Cultural comfort and fast‑food favorites
Rodriguez also shares his Dominican‑heritage comfort foods: rice and beans, fried sweet plantains (plátanos maduros), and twice‑fried green plantains (tostones). He has a “double Whopper with cheese” for a burger meal, citing a preference for Burger King’s burgers and McDonald’s French fries. His favorite ballpark food is a Dodger Dog from Los Angeles Dodgers games, and he also enjoys a warm pretzel.
Coffee, supplements and a balanced routine
The former superstar is a big coffee drinker, sipping between seven and eight cups a day, and he often adds a Celsius energy drink before workouts. His protein shakes combine protein powder, fruit and a bit of peanut butter, and he takes daily vitamin C, a multivitamin and magnesium to help with sleep.
When asked about the most unusual food combination he enjoys, Rodriguez offered a peanut butter and jelly sandwich topped with deli turkey—an odd, yet oddly satisfying mix that he claims is his “weird” favorite.
From a ballplayer to a food aficionado
In his current life—running a business, owning a sports team, and broadcasting—Rodriguez has become a “food enthusiast” rather than a professional athlete. He says, “I love to eat. I have a great relationship with food,” and stresses the need for a balanced intake now that his body no longer needs to support an extreme athletic schedule.
The former Yankees legend’s diet, now less calorie‑dense but still indulgent at times, reflects a transition from a life of relentless physical demand to one of personal enjoyment and moderation. His candid look at what sits in his fridge and pantry offers fans a glimpse into how an all‑time great has adapted his eating habits to fit his post‑MLB lifestyle.