I'm not expecting much from him either but several factors are in play.
1. Yanks need a SS.
2. Next SS will not be the beloved Jeter so he's already at a disadvantage.
3. Yanks have to pay A-Rod.
4. A-Rod is the opposite of beloved so he's not at a disadvantage.
5. Off the PED, he might have a SS body now.
6. If he plays well and the Yanks win, he can repair his image.
To me, A-Rod at SS is a win for everyone.