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Sad Young Men

by Geoff Young on March 3rd, 2008

All the sad young men
Choking on their worth
Trying to be brave
Running from the truth

–”All the Sad Young Men,” Tommy Wolf and Fran Landesman

I don’t think Wolf and Landesman were talking about baseball players, but the sentiment may apply. At least two young men whose contracts were up for renewal are sad because, well, their contracts got renewed.

Say wha’?

First up, Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder:

I’m not happy about it at all. The fact I’ve had to be renewed two years in a row, I’m not happy about it because there’s a lot of guys who have the same amount of time that I do who have done a lot less and are getting paid a lot more.

But my time is going to come. It’s going to come quick, too.

Uh, okay. The thing is, that’s kind of how the system works. So the alternative is to… retire?

Meanwhile, in the pitchers’ corner, we have Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels:

I’m not angry. I just feel a little … I can’t think of a good word. I’m a little surprised. It’s about respect, and when people don’t show that to you, you’re caught off guard. I thought it was a low blow.

I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me respect someone more than when they play the respect card.

I’m also comforted by the words of Fielder and Hamels. You think the kids don’t get it? You think that when the old guys leave, nobody will step in and take their place? Sure, we may never see Roger Clemens open his mouth and say something stupid again (don’t count on it), but rest assured that this rich tradition will continue with the next generation.

Seriously. Show a little respect.

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POSTED IN: Personalities