When spring training is barely 2 months out for pitchers and catchers, I think we need to take a look at what type of damage the NYY have done to the game. From a competitive standpoint and players playing with heart versus how they should perform based on their contracts? I don't think there is a lot of damage done. From a standpoint of how expensive it is now going to get for baseball fans to go see a game? I think there has been substantial damage done. It is now impossible for a father to take his children to a pro ballpark, get good seats, maybe a souevineur or two, and something to drink and nibble on for less than $100. Also, the extravagence of these new ballparks is also driving the cost of players up up and up. I do think it should be noted though, that just because someone is making $250 Million over 10 years doesn't mean they are also a lock to produce. I hate to use A-Rod as an example, but it really is the perfect one. He is being paid collosal amounts of money for his talents, potential, and services by the NYY. Moreso, he is being paid to bring a World Series ring back to the Bronx. He has been there a number of years now and since his arrival, the NYY have not won the BIG one. Another example of going after the money versus going after what a player's heart is telling them to do is CC Sabathia. It was WELL documented that his conviction and intent was to sign with a Left Coast team. He was being courted by the the LAA and Dodger Blue. They were both offering 7-8 years and in the $100 million range. The Brewers also stepped to the plate with that caliber of offer and let's face it, roster wise, they are as competitive right now as any team to make a "Series" run. Let's be honest here; how many of us would be able to spend $100 million dollars in our lifetime as long as we don't live the life of extravagence that so many do when they run out of money. CC went to the highest bidder, plain and simple and showed his stance of wanting to play on the Left Coast was a ploy to drive up his value to get the optimal dollar possible. Now, if the NYY don't hit "The Series" within the 1st 3 seasons of his being there, the skeptics will return and we will revisit all this again. I just wish the athletes would not be fake about what their really looking for. MONEY!! Mark Teixerea, makes me wanna throw up to be honest, rather his agent does. These agents are all about driving up the price of how much it costs for Dad's out there to take the son or daughter to a game. With the price of pro athletes soaring, of course the prices the clubs charge to go to watch them will soar too. I guess we'll see how it all pans out? Go Twins for staying business smart and still remaining competitive! That ROCKS!
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