"That's an insult to me. Come on? What did I want to do, just be a token or a ceremonial-type guy? I don't need that. I have too much to offer...I'm done with them. I have nothing against the organization per se. It's two people that I'm concerned with: Jim and Stan."
(Frank Robinson, via Washington Post, 01/11/2007)
Jim and Stan Lied to Frank about his future with the club, plain and simple.
(at least, that's what Frank would have you believe)
On Tuesday, The Nationals Enquirer reported that the Nationals had offered Old Frank a job with the Nat Pack (even though he is not a gymnast, dancer, cheerleader, or woman). It gets worse -- not only was the Hall of Famer NOT offered a position with the Nat Pack, he wasn't offered a paying job with the club -- just a round-trip plane ticket and cab fare to Space Coast Stadium, and the chance to hang around, you know, "help out" at Spring Training (unpaid).
So now he's understandably pissed off. Frank Robinson deserves better than this, folks.
Frank Robinson Brad Wilkerson Day scheduled for May 20 vs. Orioles.
(Photo by Nick Wass/AP)
What is worrisome for me is that most people have very positive comments on Stan "the man", so it's curious that he seems to have "botched" this situation.
Jimmy "the hair", well not too many people respect him, so this is typical.
I also think that the Lerner's would typically behave in a professional and respectful manner.
My guess is that Frank had it sent in his mind that he'd get a specific job, and he's lashing out. But I also am guessing "El Pelo" was adament about not having him within the organization.
Posted by: SomeGuy | January 11, 2007 at 10:14 PM
I've actually got faith in what they're trying to do (Kasten via the Lerner Group), but I really think they might be underestimating the power of good will and just how bad this decision might be from a PR standpoint. (and by PR we mean Public Relations, not Peurto Rico).
Posted by: ck | January 13, 2007 at 08:54 PM