I've never understood exactly what made A-Rod such a superstar. He certainly didn't merit the paycheck he received from the Rangers, who sucked badly the whole time he was up here.
he deserves the superstar status as he will surpass most all power-hitting records as a baseball player. not sure how you earn your check in baseball or any other forms of entertainment. id think he earns it more than say jim carrey who demands 30 mill for a 90 minute flick but regardless, if the market demands it then these so-called owners who claim they arent making any money, wouldnt pay it. i simply disagree with him not giving back to the fans in the yankees only time to host the event--and last. I usually defend the guy but I do disagree with his non-participation. clearly, its his call but the wrong one.
umm...? 500+ home runs in young 30s? On pace for 800-900 career home runs... umm...? baseball's best offensive player ever before it's all said and done... 1 guy can not make a baseball club win or lose. Don't blame the Rangers' misfortunes on A-Rod. and about giving back to the fans, etc... that's a crock of crap. He doesn't owe the fans anything, considering the 1st time he strikes out next game, they will boo him. He is never in debt to the fans of New York again after opting out of his deal and negotiating his new deal BY HIMSELF to stay in New York, because Scott BorASS wanted to break the bank elsewhere.
Guys, I realize that he puts up some huge numbers, but I've never really seen him to be a "difference maker" on a team. And, clair, it may be hokey, but I still do like the idea of "giving back" to the fans. It's an entertainment industry, and he's not entertaining the fans. With all of the bad PR he's getting right now, it might have been good for him to get his butt out there.
Gay Rod did let down the Rangers. I live here and remember it. He refused to let the Rangers market him through appearances, hospital visits, etc... When he signed that contract his head ballooned and I wish nothing but failure upon his career. Ranger fans have finally forgotten him, partially b/c a player even more sorry than A-Rod emerged - Mark Texieria. Mark my words - Tex will play for at least 6 teams in his career. He's a clubhouse cancer.
Without A-Rod last year, the Yankees don't sniff the playoffs. Without A-Rod this year (with Posada, Matsui and Damon out) they are 15 back and out of it. With or without A-Rod, the Rangers sucked, suck and will suck.
