LEADING OFF: A-Rod 1 hit from 3,000, Harper’s hamstring exam

A look at what’s happening all around the major leagues Friday:

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HISTORY ON DECK

Alex Rodriguez is one hit away from becoming the 29th player to reach No. 3,000. He’ll get his chance at Yankee Stadium against Justin Verlander and the Detroit Tigers. A-Rod got two hits Thursday night vs. Miami, then drew a four-pitch walk his last time up.

HARPER UPDATE

The Nationals expect to determine the severity of slugger Bryce Harper’s injured left hamstring. The All-Star right fielder sustained a mild strain when he took an awkward tumble trying to make a throw on wet grass Thursday night. He was down on the ground for a few minutes, then walked off under his own power and left the game.

PANDA ON LINE

Boston third baseman Pablo Sandoval could rejoin the lineup in Kansas City, a day after being benched by manager John Farrell for using his Instagram account during a loss to Atlanta. A two-time All-Star and former World Series MVP, Sandoval is batting .452 during an eight-game hitting streak for the last-place Red Sox.

READY TO GO

Tigers designated hitter Victor Martinez is likely to come off the disabled list and play at Yankee Stadium. He’s been out since mid-May because of left knee inflammation. Martinez was second in the AL MVP voting last season.

HOME AGAIN

Padres interim manager Pat Murphy will be back in familiar surroundings when San Diego begins a series at Arizona. He was the longtime coach at Arizona State in Tempe, not far from the Diamondbacks’ ballpark in Phoenix. Murphy got his first big league win Thursday in the Padres’ 3-1 victory at Oakland.

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