A-Rod benched for Game 5

New York Yankees third baseman will watch the decisive Game 5 from the bench, as the struggling superstar is being replaced in the lineup.

Manager Joe Girardi has opted to start lefty Eric Chavez against right-hander Jason Hammel.

Rodriguez is 2-for-16 with nine strikeouts in the series, and has been pinch hit for twice in the past two games.

Raul Ibanez, the hero of Game 3, will serve as the DH.