A-Rod makes Phillies pitcher a Twitter star

TAMPA – Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Kevin Slowey became a popular topic on Twitter during Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees.

All because of one batter.

In the first inning, Slowey faced slugger Alex Rodriguez, who was appearing in his first game since Sept. 25, 2013, because of a year-long suspension. Rodriguez, batting second, singled to left field on an 0-2 pitch. Soon after, "Kevin Slowey" became a trending topic on Twitter in the United States.

However, that was the only hit Slowey allowed in his two innings during the Phillies' 3-1 win. He also struck out two and didn't issue a walk. Slowey said he aware of the circumstances surrounding Rodriguez and understood why people were interested, but as far as he was concerned, it was a typical spring training game.

"The situation is pretty well documented as far as I'm concerned," Slowey said. "He was found guilty of whatever he was found guilty of and paid the price and served his time and he's got a uniform on and he's trying to help that team and I'm trying to help this team win. That's about it."

Slowey focused on being able to spot his fastball, which hovered around 89 mph.

Montemurro writes for the (Delaware) News Journal, a Gannett property

GALLERY: ALEX RODRIGUEZ'S ROAD BACK