There are some indications that the New York Yankees and GM Brian Cashman are interested in extending Alex Rodriguez's contract now in order to avoid the opt-out right that A-Rod will have after this season. But the All-Star third-baseman, putting up massive power numbers, told the media before Thursday's game that he will not discuss his contract until the season ends. "Like I've said all year, I think it's something we'll do at the end of the year," Rodriguez said. "I think it would be selfish on my part to talk about my contract status when our team desperately needs wins," Rodriguez said. "My goal is to win as any games as we can, focus on my teammates and really play at a real high level in the second half. "The one thing I want to focus on is getting a win tonight and play baseball," Rodriguez added. "That sort of thing I leave to the people upstairs. My only concern is to play baseball and play at a high level." Does that mean that no matter what, he will not negotiate before the season ends? "Correct," Rodriguez said. His agent, Scott Boras, also said that A-Rod will not take up the Yankees' offer to negotiate before the season ends. "We are not going to be negotiating during the season," Boras said. Boras insisted he could see no way that strategy will change, saying "This is Alex's decision. This has been his policy, and I fully expect this to continue to be his policy." The Yankees may want to prevent a showdown with Rodriguez and preserve the sizable financial contributions that the Texas Rangers make under Rodriguez's current deal. The Rangers' subsidy would terminate once Rodriguez exercises his right to opt out of the existing contract.