AP Source: MLB threatening A-Rod with lifetime ban

NEW YORK -- Major League Baseball is threatening to kick Alex Rodriguez out of the game for life unless the New York Yankees star agrees not to fight a lengthy suspension for his role in baseball's latest drug scandal, according to a person familiar with the discussions.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on Wednesday on condition of anonymity because no statements were authorized as the investigation pushes to a conclusion.

Whether Commissioner Bud Selig would actually issue a lifetime ban was unclear, and baseball officials know a permanent ban could be shortened by arbitrator Fredric Horowitz, the person said.

Based on past cases, people involved believe Horowitz might cut a lifetime ban to about 200 games.