Thanks, Manny
I think we all should take a moment out of our busy day to thank Manny Ramirez for his latest adventure.
Manny has given us a great opportunity to draw some lines in the sand for those out there that call themselves fans. There are huge differences in philosophy among fans and Manny has given us the opportunity to identify the true “lovers of the game” and ferret out those who really just don’t get it.
If you are among those who think that Manny’s batting average justifies all else, please raise your hand, because you need to be identified, maybe even tagged with one of those little metal bands around your ankle. The tag would read, “I don’t really understand the concept of team, but don’t I look cool in my $300 jersey that I bought instead of paying child support last month”.
Get a clue. No one is bigger than the team. And when a player visibly loafs his way through a game, he is insulting every player that has stepped out of a dugout. Worse than that, he sends a message to our children that effort is only something that is given from a selfish motivation, not because others (your team) will benefit from it.
Today in Oklahoma City there was a memorial service for Bobby Murcer. Bobby was a good player, not a great player. But Bobby played every inning for his team, not for himself. Isn’t that the way we want our kids to approach the game? Players like Manny have made it very difficult for little league coaches to get the attention of today’s youth.
So give it some thought. If you really think that Manny’s actions were ok for the game because he was a great hitter, then make sure you don’t ever take on the role of youth coach, or big brother, or school teacher. Because you just don’t get it.
So thanks, Manny, for letting us get a look at those who think the price of character can be paid for with self-centered behavior instead of effort and a team first work ethic.
Actually, they’ve never been that hard to spot.
dwillis
