Lifestyles of the greatest

[Hankphenom]

Originally Posted by todeen

I think we all have quiet respect for that star player of any generation who is able to escape the spotlight, find a quiet life for themselves that they desire, and live content. And then we all talk about how hard it is to obtain their auto.

I'm sorry to hear about Lombardi's problems, Tim, but I bet the vast majority of ex-big leaguers were both thrilled to pick up any endorsements or other financial advantages they could derive from their ball-playing exploits and also happy to receive whatever recognition and adulation those brought them post-career. Without knowing anything about his life, I'd suspect he had deeper problems that contributed to his sad demise. And for every ex-player trying desperately to escape the inconveniences and annoyances of fame, I'd guess there were just as many or more who took to it like Babe Ruth, who stood for hours signing autographs and talking to fans until the last one went home. I think a poll of ex-players would show overwhelming gratitude for the opportunities of all kinds baseball created for them, and regard the downsides as a small price to pay.

[packs]

There are similar tough tales even today. Warren Sapp made over 80 million dollars in his career and when he filed for bankruptcy he had less than a thousand dollars in his account.

Athletes are still working TV jobs and coaching jobs to support themselves. Some people are just better with money no matter what the amount is.

[rdwyer]

Sad stories. But I would've thought most had flashy cars. etc.

[Hankphenom]

Originally Posted by rdwyer

Sad stories. But I would've thought most had flashy cars. etc.

They did, and loved to take pictures with them. They were also sharp dressers, and not long after coming off the farm or out of the mines, they all looked like a million dollars with their tailored suits and daily haircuts, etc. The life of a big league ballplayer exposed them quickly to the most sophisticated elements of society: train travel, big cities, the best hotels, fine restaurants, etc., and gave them at least the veneer of young men on the move.

[todeen]

Originally Posted by Hankphenom

I think a poll of ex-players would show overwhelming gratitude for the opportunities of all kinds baseball created for them, and regard the downsides as a small price to pay.

Yes, I would agree that most players love the spotlight and want to stay in it. I think of some of the Lawrence Ritter stories about players he was trying to find and interview. Some of them were living quite humbly.