Some of the math came into focus recently and seems to make the economics of pro ball (just economics, not the daily life) a little more appealing. For arguments sake, say a later round high school pitcher, say 15th, getting $400K bonus and $100K scholarship money versus going high D1 with a 50% scholarship. Next assumption would be what high D1 - heaven forbid you are talking about Vanderbilt tuition. For argument sake, let's say a state university with a reasonable $30K cost. Kid or parents are still going to have to come up with $15K each year assuming the scholarship level does not get cut, especially if you actually stick around for 4 years and graduate - 4th year probably cut to 25% so another $7.5K out of pocket. Compare this to 4 years in MiLB. $400K bonus turns into $200K net cash - stash $100K and supplement each of the next 4 years with $25K (after tax cash). Wash out after 4 years (released) and start tapping scholarship monies. Looks like the pro route is decent on economics and parents get to keep from paying over $65K in college costs not covered. Realize $400K is sizeable but also would not think 3 years at 50% is not considered "good" except for a select few pitchers that may get a little higher (if you are offered 100% than perhaps you draft potential would be a little higher and the math might still point towards going pro). I guess it all depends on how big that first check is and whether the kid can get some level of enjoyment in MiLB given that less than stellar lifestyle.