Alex Rodriguez commented on the Yankees’ newest member, Ivan Rodriguez.

”He’s hopefully going to be an important part of what we’re trying to do this year,” A-Rod told the Associated Press.

Hopefully is an adverb that means “in a hopeful manner” or “filled with hope.” For example, Ivan Rodriguez awaited the Yankees’ verdict hopefully, feeling optimistic that a deal would be made.

Otherwise, use “to hope that.” A-Rod should have said, “I hope that he’ll be an important part of what we’re trying to do this year.”

This sentence structure requires the speaker to take ownership for the hope. “Hopefully, you’ll come” doesn’t reflect the same degree of intimacy or affection as, “I hope that you’ll come.” Proper word choice can yield better results.