ALEX RODRIGUEZ Money can't buy ticket out of Texas

Texas Rangers owner Tom Hicks ended his attempt to trade his wealthy player.
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -- A record contract brought Alex Rodriguez to Texas. And now it's keeping him here.
With the $252 million, 10-year deal he agreed to in December 2000, Rodriguez can buy just about anything he wants -- except a ticket out of Texas.
After weeks of discussions that began right after the World Series, Texas owner Tom Hicks on Tuesday ended his attempt to trade Rodriguez to Boston for outfielder Manny Ramirez, baseball's only other $20 million-a-year player.
Hicks missed out on what may be his only realistic chance of moving the most expensive contract in sports. And Rodriguez is stuck in Texas, which has finished last in the AL West four straight seasons.
Looking back
When Rodriguez signed with Texas, the Rangers already were a last-place team with the worst pitching in the American League. Despite Hicks' willingness then to carry $100 million-plus payrolls, only the money was guaranteed, not trips to the playoffs.
The initial smiles have been replaced by frustration after three straight losing seasons in which Rodriguez hit .305 with a combined 156 homers, 395 RBIs, two Gold Gloves at shortstop and this year's AL MVP award.
And there are hints of friction between Rodriguez and manager Buck Showalter. Rodriguez didn't return his calls for several weeks after the season, but Showalter repeatedly said he'd be happy to have Rodriguez back.
Hicks plans to sit down with Rodriguez and Showalter in the next few weeks "and get that clear" before spring training and the start of what appears to be another long and difficult season for the Rangers.
Hicks has ordered payroll, which was $104 million at the start of last season, cut to between $70 million and $75 million. General manager John Hart says the team is committed to young players.
With the A-Rod situation resolved, the Rangers will move forward with limited money for other players.
In the pursuit of another starting pitcher, Texas likely will shy away from 17-game winner Sidney Ponson and concentrate on cheaper alternatives, such as Brett Tomko or Kenny Rogers.
Team marketing
After proclaiming the trade talks with Boston over, Hicks sent a letter to season ticket holders saying next year's team would be centered on Rodriguez.
But there might be lingering effects from the attempted trade of A-Rod, who first mentioned the possibility midway through last season.
And what happens in July when the trade deadline approaches and the Rangers may again be 20 games out of first place? Is Rodriguez staying in Texas then?
Nothing is guaranteed. Except for A-Rod's money.