Quote:
Originally Posted by gonefishin
I really don't like to see players, or other public figures, who were once very talented and the top tier in their industry fall from grace over money. I understand that while making the big bucks they probably led a very exclusive, and expensive, lifestyle that they need to maintain. So, because they have no other talent, skill, or education to either own or operate a successful business (or do so for a deep pocket individual), they prostitute themselves for money. Whether that be in some lame commercial (typically insurance or cell phones), charging large amounts for guest appearances, selling their autograph, etc., they have to find a venue to bring in that cash.
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I don't think Jeter has to stoop to new lows to maintain his lifestyle. I believe the problem is actually the opposite of this. Because Jeter made millions during his career, and has endorsements in the hundreds of millions for all the commercials he does, and whatever money he made while owning the Marlins, etc, etc....it's simply not worth his time to participate in a signing unless he's being paid ridiculously for it. Musial, Mantle, whoever else from the days when gas was 27 cents a gallon didn't make anywhere near the amount of money Jeter, or any other recent player, has made. Trent Grisham just accepted a $22M qualifying offer for Pete's sake! Add to that the pensions the players receive nowadays, which tallies more than the Golden Era HOFers made during their entire careers. These recent guys just aren't going to take the time out of their day to sign stuff for $15-20 a pop. That's the way the hobby/industry has been for many years now, and it's not looking likely to ever change.