When former New York Yankees star Alex Rodriguez was probed over illegal poker participation

In August 2011, former New York Yankees star shortstop Alex Rodriguez was probed by MLB over illegal poker participation. As per reports, Alex took part in high-stakes underground poker games where hundreds of thousands of dollars changed hands among players that included several high-profile actors.

The allegations were first reported by Star Magazine, an American celebrity tabloid magazine founded in 1974.

"We take this very seriously and have been investigating this matter since the initial allegation," MLB said in a statement. "As part of the investigation, the commissioner's office will interview Mr. Rodriguez."

Richard Rubenstein, who A-Rod hired for his PR services, acknowledged Star Magazine's report and tagged the news piece containing "numerous factual inaccuracies."

"The story contains numerous factual inaccuracies and Alex looks forward to cooperating with MLB in their investigation," Rubinstein said.

BleacherReport.com - Alex Rodriguez' Gambling Alligations: What Is the Big Deal?: http://bit.ly/omyMw4

"Alex Rodriguez' Gambling Alligations: What Is the Big Deal?" - B/R Walk-Off

Amid all the chaos over A-Rod's illegal gambling connections, he was rehabbing after having knee surgery in July 2011.

Alex Rodriguez received a warning about the consequences of playing poker in 2005

Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees fields the ball at third base during Game Four of the American League Division Series against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on October 4, 2011, in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

In 2005, former New York Yankees star Rodriguez received a warning from the Bronx Bombers for playing poker in clandestine establishments. Bud Selig, the former commissioner of MLB, also issued a warning to him.

Alex Rodriguez, MLB to meet Friday: In 2005, Rodriguez had been warned about gambling in underground poker clubs... bit.ly/pXVZFv

"A-Rod, MLB to meet Friday: In 2005, Rodriguez had been warned about gambling in underground poker clubs." - Poker Ace News

Apparently, the Yankees and Selig were worried that Alex may receive a lifetime ban like former Cincinnati Reds icon Pete Rose due to the shortstop's potential connections to gamblers who might be betting on big league games.