Alex Rodriguez gets emotional discussing 660th home run

Now that Alex Rodriguez's milestone 660th career home run is in the books and he's officially tied with the legendary Hall of Famer Willie Mays for fourth place on the all-time home run list, it's interesting to look back at the reaction.

Not of the fans in Boston, since they reacted exactly as you'd expect in greeting A-Rod with boos as he approached home plate and again as he rounded the bases. Not of his teammates either, because you got the sense they'd be supportive, especially if Rod was helping the team win. And not even of the Yankees themselves, as they reluctantly tweeted an acknowledgment after originally staying focused on the game itself.

How about the reaction of A-Rod himself? Would he be stoic in the face of history? Perhaps even defiant or arrogant knowing his place in history is now cemented?

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No and no on those accounts. Rodriguez was actually a ball of emotions following the game, breaking down during an interview with WFAN’s Suzyn Waldman as he recognized and thanked his supporters.

The moment clearly got to A-Rod on a level perhaps we didn't anticipate going in. It's a reminder that for everything he's done wrong to damage his own name and reputation, damage that simply can't and never will be undone, there's still a man who loves and respects the game on some level, and there's still a man who's capable of recognizing those who helped open doors for his return and remained in his corner when most bailed.

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That awareness is good to see now, because it wasn't always clear throughout the process.

Of course, he still has some work to do to convince everybody of his sincerity, but The Stew's Mike Oz pointed out a couple ways on Friday night that could certainly help him take giant steps in that direction.

Ultimately, though, the battle for the public's respect is one he can't win, but he can at least attempt to set good examples in humility, while appreciating the opportunities and second chance he's been afforded.

One person he can certainly learn from? The man he tied on Friday night, Willie Mays.

Here's Mays congratulations to A-Rod.

Class, humility and a high road approach to what undoubtedly had to be an uncomfortable night.

Our hat is off to Willie Mays again, and our hope is A-Rod is truly ready to follow his footsteps. .

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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at bigleaguestew@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813