The Ichiro stuff was interesting. In fact, it made me think of some comments from a few days ago, regarding great players who hang on "too long." I tend not to be bothered by this, and in fact, Ichiro might be a sort of model for my point of view. He is obviously a shell of his former self, but nevertheless he's a superb athlete and can still do some things to help a team win. Some might find it sad him toiling away as a 4th or 5th outfielder. But I think it's great. Why not? He can still play some, he can help a team win. I'd rather watch a fading star PH or go in as a defensive replacement or make a spot start than watch the 12th or 13th pitcher on the staff get some work in. And who knows, maybe one is treated to a few last moments of greatness. So long as the player is satisfied with a diminished role, I don't find it sad at all. The questions: how long would Ichiro be willing to linger as a BAOF, and would anyone sign him after this season?
1) I tend to agree, the condition being that a guy needs to realize who/what he is at that point in his career. If Ichiro is fine with basically being a 4th OF/Defensive Replacement/Pinch Runner...then hey, more power to him. You sure could find worse guys to fill that role on your team.
The Ichiro stuff was interesting. In fact, it made me think of some comments from a few days ago, regarding great players who hang on "too long." I tend not to be bothered by this, and in fact, Ichiro might be a sort of model for my point of view. He is obviously a shell of his former self, but nevertheless he's a superb athlete and can still do some things to help a team win. Some might find it sad him toiling away as a 4th or 5th outfielder. But I think it's great. Why not? He can still play some, he can help a team win. I'd rather watch a fading star PH or go in as a defensive replacement or make a spot start than watch the 12th or 13th pitcher on the staff get some work in. And who knows, maybe one is treated to a few last moments of greatness. So long as the player is satisfied with a diminished role, I don't find it sad at all. The questions: how long would Ichiro be willing to linger as a BAOF, and would anyone sign him after this season?
1) I tend to agree, the condition being that a guy needs to realize who/what he is at that point in his career. If Ichiro is fine with basically being a 4th OF/Defensive Replacement/Pinch Runner...then hey, more power to him. You sure could find worse guys to fill that role on your team.