Alex Rodriguez and Madonna

Since the days of Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe, more than one Yankee superstar has found himself linked to one of the hottest actresses or singers of his day.  The latest entry in this trend is the not-so-secret (at least after the events of early July) romance between Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez and legendary singer Madonna.  Though there have been denials issued from both sides, the collapse of both stars' marriages and a number of late-night visits seem to suggest more is going on that just mere friendship.

Madonna married British director Guy Ritchie in 2000, and their relationship has been a stormy one.  Rumors began to fly about strains in the relationship in early 2008, which grew into hints that a split was imminent this summer.  At the same time, Rodriguez had been seen spending more and more time with the singer, including a visit mere days after the birth of his daughter.  As the two began spending more and more time together, the stress began to show on A-Rod's marriage, resulting in a separation on July 2nd amidst reports of a late-night visit to Madonna's apartment.  

Cynthia Rodriguez filed for divorce from Alex the following week, citing "emotional abandonment"; likewise Madonna has been reported to have been seeing a famous divorce attorney in New York, and Ritchie's most recent visit was said to have been to work out some of the financial details.  In any case, though everyone involved still insists nothing untoward is going on, and the Ritchies have yet to officially confirm their marital troubles, the writing seems to be on the wall for everyone involved.