Infielddad, I suppose you see most things in black and white, whereas I see many things in shades of gray. If you're arguing for the legitimacy of professional baseball contracts, you don't need to look very far to see that they are modified, redone, torn up, and otherwise ignored on a regular basis.
I think you misunderstood some of my comments...I was offering an opinion on this situation...that's all. I just happen to think that the rules as they exist do little to benefit either side. I agree that Kyle made a commitment and I am ok with the Rockies forcing him to fulfill it -- or sit out. If that occurs, both parties lose. When a draft pick chooses not to sign, the club loses his rights after a year. Yes, in this case, the player signed. But he did not accept his signing bonus. If you reread my posts, I didn't come down on the Rockies.
And in many ways it is about the NCAA and the Rockies, whether you see it that way or not. Concerning that issue, the NCAA cannot just arbitrarily change the rules -- so, I'm not blaming them (or anyone). I only mentioned the NCAA because of their hypocritcal (and confusing) stance on eligibility, among other things <-- the source of another thread, I'm sure. The Rockies' decision is a choice. Maybe the team and the player will find a situation that works for everyone.
The player is legally bound, everyone reading this thread understands that -- there is no argument on that issue from me.
I still believe what I stated before!!! And by the way, If everyone in this world fulfilled all signed legal agreements....we would not need attorneys!!!
quote:Originally posted by base4:
I still believe what I stated before!!! And by the way, If everyone in this world fulfilled all signed legal agreements....we would not need attorneys!!!
Not sure I have ever seen anyone let out a cheer for attorneys. I, respectfully disagree that not fulfilling legal agreements is something to be condoned or admired. I think you are 100% wrong.
Panther Dad, I think we agree in many areas. The NCAA is a zoo. The world of professional baseball can be a dream but also a world of harsh realities. As I said before, I have sympathy for the player. When he signed that agreement and ended up in Casper, Wyoming, he may well have run into the real world for the very first time. But his predicament is the choice he and his family made in signing a contract. His situation is not the fault of the NCAA bureacracy nor the fault of the Rockies. The player had all the choices and options before the Rockies drafted him. He made choices he now regrets. That is not the fault of anyone but the people/person who took that path.
The Rockies choice is a simple and very fair one: they obtained and signed to a contract an asset that they own for six years. Whether he agrees to play for them this year, next year, or the next does not really matter to them... I am certain they are not going to throw away the asset (an athlete) just because a young man is confused. They will wait until he comes to his senses and realizes the only place he can play baseball is in their organization.
It is too bad the young man chose money over the college experience but that was his choice and he will have to live with it.
Read Rick Reilly's column at the back of this weeks Sports Illustrated about the choice Matt Leinart made to return to school for his senior season, passing up $50 million in last year's NFL draft.
And if your son will someday be a draft prospect --- make him read it. Great lesson there.
It is too bad the young man chose money over the college experience but that was his choice and he will have to live with it.
Read Rick Reilly's column at the back of this weeks Sports Illustrated about the choice Matt Leinart made to return to school for his senior season, passing up $50 million in last year's NFL draft.
And if your son will someday be a draft prospect --- make him read it. Great lesson there.
This has nothing to do with the NCAA or the Rockies. Mr. Hancock would have recieved his bonus, however he elected to quit and give up that bonus. When he elects to return he will then recieve his bonus.
Panther Dad's Comment..... If you're arguing for the legitimacy of professional baseball contracts, you don't need to look very far to see that they are modified, redone, torn up, and otherwise ignored on a regular basis.
Torn up....can you prove that? Redone, better ask Tyrell Owens (TO) about the with the EAGLES (NFL). Panther Dad, your talking out the bottom side of your mouth, you have no CLUE! Bet you also didn't realize that ALBERT BELL is still getting paid on his last contract, can you remember the last time he had an at bat or was on someones roster? Offer your opinion, but I'm stating FACTS!
You know I have something else to offer as well. Thats the problem with the young adults of this generation, people wanta always let them off the hook. Do you not realize how much professional sports is Corporate America, it's big business, it's about trying to win. The Rockies aren't forcing Hancock to play, they are just expecting him to honor his contract that he SIGNED. Do you not realize how much money was spent to draft Hancock. Lets see, the scouting director fly's in to see him, gets a motel, eats. Now the cross checker fly's in and does the same thing, then a national cross checker comes in and does the same thing, then the area scout see';s him 5-6 times, then another couple area scouts drive in to see him and then a special assistant to the General manager flys in to see him.
Be realistic. Mr Hancock is lying in his on bed of choice. He must learn what responsibility is!! Life isn't about aborting your choice's and outcomes!!!!!!
Panther Dad's Comment..... If you're arguing for the legitimacy of professional baseball contracts, you don't need to look very far to see that they are modified, redone, torn up, and otherwise ignored on a regular basis.
Torn up....can you prove that? Redone, better ask Tyrell Owens (TO) about the with the EAGLES (NFL). Panther Dad, your talking out the bottom side of your mouth, you have no CLUE! Bet you also didn't realize that ALBERT BELL is still getting paid on his last contract, can you remember the last time he had an at bat or was on someones roster? Offer your opinion, but I'm stating FACTS!
You know I have something else to offer as well. Thats the problem with the young adults of this generation, people wanta always let them off the hook. Do you not realize how much professional sports is Corporate America, it's big business, it's about trying to win. The Rockies aren't forcing Hancock to play, they are just expecting him to honor his contract that he SIGNED. Do you not realize how much money was spent to draft Hancock. Lets see, the scouting director fly's in to see him, gets a motel, eats. Now the cross checker fly's in and does the same thing, then a national cross checker comes in and does the same thing, then the area scout see';s him 5-6 times, then another couple area scouts drive in to see him and then a special assistant to the General manager flys in to see him.
Be realistic. Mr Hancock is lying in his on bed of choice. He must learn what responsibility is!! Life isn't about aborting your choice's and outcomes!!!!!!
quote:Originally posted by Txdad07:
Wonder who his advisor/agent was because it sounds like he got some lousy advice.
The Beverly Hills Sports Council acted as his agent.
You may have heard of a couple of their other clients, some guys by the names of Mike Piazza, Curt Schilling and Barry Bonds....just to name a few.
Vance34 -- I'm sure you're right, I don't have a clue....so, I suppose I shouldn't offer my opinion. And I find it interesting that you picked two of the sorriest athletes in all of sports as examples on living up to the terms of their contracts.
Every one of your points can be reasonably argued....if only someone here had a clue! Someone with a clue might comment that all the money that the Rockies spent could be considered the "cost of doing business" -- especially since 25 other teams spent the same money. oops.
I'm sure you know how to cut and paste -- why don't you include those areas where I talk out the bottom side of my mouth -- which is an interesting twist --- I usually try to limit my talk to both sides of my large mouth.
My bad everyone --- only those with clues should offer opinions here.
Piece.
-PD
Every one of your points can be reasonably argued....if only someone here had a clue! Someone with a clue might comment that all the money that the Rockies spent could be considered the "cost of doing business" -- especially since 25 other teams spent the same money. oops.
I'm sure you know how to cut and paste -- why don't you include those areas where I talk out the bottom side of my mouth -- which is an interesting twist --- I usually try to limit my talk to both sides of my large mouth.
My bad everyone --- only those with clues should offer opinions here.
Piece.
-PD
I think we really out to move this to a different thread about contracts - not anything specific about one person.
The thought that signing a contract has some kind of morale obligation to be fullfilled is a joke. It is not like you would be breaking the law like a felon. Nor is it like breaking marriage vows like a cheater. It is a business agreement that should include the terms should one of the parties decide they want out. It is no different than breaking a contract with Federal Express to use DHL. And big league baseball is big business.
Did you cancel your cable contract or cell phone contract before a year was up. Fine, pay the extra disconnect fees but don't tell me there was a moral obligation to keep it until the end of the term.
Except those that sign those military hitches - please don't get confused on that one. The penalties (Dishonarable Discharge) for non fullfillment will follow you forever.
The thought that signing a contract has some kind of morale obligation to be fullfilled is a joke. It is not like you would be breaking the law like a felon. Nor is it like breaking marriage vows like a cheater. It is a business agreement that should include the terms should one of the parties decide they want out. It is no different than breaking a contract with Federal Express to use DHL. And big league baseball is big business.
Did you cancel your cable contract or cell phone contract before a year was up. Fine, pay the extra disconnect fees but don't tell me there was a moral obligation to keep it until the end of the term.
Except those that sign those military hitches - please don't get confused on that one. The penalties (Dishonarable Discharge) for non fullfillment will follow you forever.
Moral obligation....No! He signed a contract, the Rockies will hold him to it just like he would hold the Rockies to paying him his contract no matter how poor his performance is.
I don't care how poor TO and Bell are. They signed contracts and are being paid based on those contracts. Bell is happy, and TO isn't. TO, wanted a new contract for more money because he now thinks his worth is more than the contract HE signed. Notice that the Eagles are holding him to the contract he signed.
Panther Dad, sorry to have hurt your feelings. Didn't realize grown men could be hurt so easy! Reasonably argued points?? The point is a contract is there to bind 2 parties. TO has to play for the Eagles or he would not get paid. The NFL doesn't have guaranteed contracts. Bell retired but must be paid the remainder of his contract. MLB contracts are guaranteed!!!!
70 MPH, all I can say about the cable contract is your right, pay the penality and move on. However, stop paying your MORTGAGE, and you'll be looking for a new place to live!!!
I don't care how poor TO and Bell are. They signed contracts and are being paid based on those contracts. Bell is happy, and TO isn't. TO, wanted a new contract for more money because he now thinks his worth is more than the contract HE signed. Notice that the Eagles are holding him to the contract he signed.
Panther Dad, sorry to have hurt your feelings. Didn't realize grown men could be hurt so easy! Reasonably argued points?? The point is a contract is there to bind 2 parties. TO has to play for the Eagles or he would not get paid. The NFL doesn't have guaranteed contracts. Bell retired but must be paid the remainder of his contract. MLB contracts are guaranteed!!!!
70 MPH, all I can say about the cable contract is your right, pay the penality and move on. However, stop paying your MORTGAGE, and you'll be looking for a new place to live!!!
Oh, don't worry about hurting my feelings....I can pretty much take whatever you dish out. I think it's odd that you feel like you need to explain how contracts work -- like we're all 1st graders. Do the Eagles have a MORAL obligation to hold TO to his contract, or is that their option? If they had renegotiated, I guess you'd have to look for another meaningless analogy.
There's an article in the DMN today about National Letters of Intent, etc. I didn't read the entire article yet, but it appears to focus -- at least in part -- on being a year-to-year commitment by the schools. Before you feel compelled to explain, we all get it. But, some might argue that an athlete's initial signing is also a contract because it binds him/her to that school if he/she decides to play on that level. But no one cries about an athlete's moral obligation (or failure) if he decides to sign a professional agreement or to play at a junior college.
Again, life is about choices (as I have said all along). I'm sure this discussion has run its course. I respect the Rockies' choice, the player's choice, and everyone will life happlily ever after.
There's an article in the DMN today about National Letters of Intent, etc. I didn't read the entire article yet, but it appears to focus -- at least in part -- on being a year-to-year commitment by the schools. Before you feel compelled to explain, we all get it. But, some might argue that an athlete's initial signing is also a contract because it binds him/her to that school if he/she decides to play on that level. But no one cries about an athlete's moral obligation (or failure) if he decides to sign a professional agreement or to play at a junior college.
Again, life is about choices (as I have said all along). I'm sure this discussion has run its course. I respect the Rockies' choice, the player's choice, and everyone will life happlily ever after.
PDAD...no explanation here! I just responded based on your comments. Your comments didn't suggest you knew much about contracts.
Lets see the NCAA letter of intent says....and has said since it became a contract in the beginning that its a ONE YEAR BINDING AGREEMENT. That letter of intent is a athletic contract ONLY! It also states that it is binding only with ALL Divison 1 schools and not Juco's and professional sports teams or Div. 3 or NAIA.
No the EAGLES do not have a moral obligation nor do they have an option. They have a contract in place. Thats why they have a contract!!! TO can play and get paid, or he can not play and not get paid!!!
Lets see the NCAA letter of intent says....and has said since it became a contract in the beginning that its a ONE YEAR BINDING AGREEMENT. That letter of intent is a athletic contract ONLY! It also states that it is binding only with ALL Divison 1 schools and not Juco's and professional sports teams or Div. 3 or NAIA.
No the EAGLES do not have a moral obligation nor do they have an option. They have a contract in place. Thats why they have a contract!!! TO can play and get paid, or he can not play and not get paid!!!
Whether one decides to go to college or to the pros is a personal one. Neither is right or wrong. However the decision should be made sooner than this one was. Whatever the reasons were, it was immature and irresponsible. There was plenty of time to do the research and come to a decision. Quitting after 1 week smacks of a weak mental make up. The scout should be fired for not doing his homework and the player should take his medicine and play golf or play for the Rockies. What I really don't like is appealling to the ncaa and others hoping he wins. Where is the accountability for ones actions if that happens? A mistake is a mistake. Own up! Adults should want him to as well. jmo
It all starts at home.
Dar Cox should be Fired???
Say it aint so......
Say it aint so......
DP, it IS a business. lol
its not dars falt he quit. he did his job to sign a high draft with "upside". maybe you dont like dar but the kid quit on the rockies, himself and anyone else involved. he will be labeled a quitter amongst the pro people now. it will be hard for him to get back into pro ball. live with the decision. i know a kid who did the same thing and 5 years later he is still pitching independant ball. oh yeah he was better than kyle
I heard a rumor that Hancock will be going to Navarro jc in Corsicana in January.Is this possible after he signed a professional contract?Are junior colleges not under the rules of the ncaa?
Rockies would have to release him 1st. If not, then he can enroll in school there but would be inelgible to play!!
I hate to drag up some old threads like this, but since the last post was in October and it's now March, is there any new news on Kyle Hancock's situation?
Rockies won't release KH.....it will be a long 6 yrs for that boy!
At least he has green fees with all that money he signed for. Hope he is happy with his golf game.
Bottomline.....he screwed the Rockies.
At least he has green fees with all that money he signed for. Hope he is happy with his golf game.
Bottomline.....he screwed the Rockies.
1st off your right in saying that Colorado will not release Kyle. 2nd Kyle did not screw the Rockies I think is more of himself that he screwed. He does not have ANY MONEY FROM THE ROCKIES !!! He would have collected the signing bonus after a 90 day`s of service. The only options at this time for Kyle is to go to college or renegotiate a new contract most likely for far less than original. The original amount and bonus is gone! Colorado does still want him.
I was hoping that someone with FIRSTHAND information would reply and update us on if Kyle has enrolled in college, working somewhere, or whatever anyone that knows him well has to say. Thanks guys for your responses though. 
Not sure if you consider this "first hand" but Minor League baseball just did a review of the Rockies Minor league system and included this information:
"5. Kyle Hancock, RHP
Hancock signed with Colorado and, after reporting, changed his mind and decided he wanted to attend the University of Arkansas instead. That's a no-no as far as the NCAA is concerned, leaving Hancock in a bind. He's currently on the restricted list and is locked in to playing for the Rockies -- or not at all."
"5. Kyle Hancock, RHP
Hancock signed with Colorado and, after reporting, changed his mind and decided he wanted to attend the University of Arkansas instead. That's a no-no as far as the NCAA is concerned, leaving Hancock in a bind. He's currently on the restricted list and is locked in to playing for the Rockies -- or not at all."
See DMN article....
Former Rowlett standout took a $460,000 walk
Pitcher signed with Colorado, then quit without throwing a pitch
11:43 PM CDT on Wednesday, April 12, 2006
By TIM MacMAHON / The Dallas Morning News
ROWLETT – A Colorado Rockies program sits atop a stack of magazines in his family's living room, a subtle reminder of what still could be for Kyle Hancock.
A few steps away is the kitchen table where Hancock, then a 17-year-old about a month removed from his Rowlett High graduation, signed a contract with the Rockies last summer. Hancock, a right-handed pitcher drafted in the third round, agreed to a $460,000 signing bonus.
Hancock never saw a nickel of it. He forfeited the bonus when he bolted from the Casper Rockies, Colorado's Rookie League club, after three days with the team.
Hancock attempted to play for the University of Arkansas, the school he signed with before his senior season. He hoped the NCAA would reinstate his amateur status, since he didn't receive a paycheck or pitch an inning as a professional. But the NCAA denied Hancock's appeal in January.
REX C. CURRY/Special Contributor
Kyle Hancock signals his catcher while coaching a youth team - his only involvement in baseball now, other than tutoring young pitchers and throwing in the bullpen. So Hancock's still at home, unsure of his future. Other than a weekly bullpen session, his involvement in baseball consists of coaching an 11-under team and giving pitching lessons.
He has no plans to rejoin the Rockies, who hold his rights until 2012.
"I think he's throwing away a golden opportunity," said Byron Brown, Hancock's grandfather. "I've told him that if he decides not to go back, it'll be the biggest mistake of his life and he'll regret it for the rest of his life."
Hancock's mother, Becky Holey, gives her son a gentler version of that message almost every day. Stuart Hancock, Kyle's father, lives in Waco and could not be reached for comment.
Rowlett coach Paul Carmon recently spent hours with Hancock at a local restaurant trying to persuade him to give pro ball another shot.
Hancock, however, insists he is content with his decision. He said he isn't bothered by people's opinion that he made a huge mistake.
He is taking 16 credit hours at Richland Community College and considering a transfer to a university as a regular student. He's a business major who is interested in real estate. He's often the big winner in weekly poker games with his buddies, putting some cash in his pockets and satisfying his competitive spirit.
Hancock says he's always been savvy with money. But he's asked almost every day: How could you walk away from $460,000?
Hancock said he has heard many crazy rumors suggesting he has off-the-field issues. He said there isn't a kernel of truth to any of them. His answer is simple: He was miserable during his brief stint at the minor leagues' lowest level.
"Culture shock" was part of it, Hancock said. "As much as I wasn't ready for it ... I wasn't enjoying myself," he said.
Hancock said he smiled the whole time during a tour of Coors Field on July 29. He was dealt a harsh dose of reality when he joined the Casper Rockies in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the next day.
The next stop on the road trip was Orem, Utah. Hancock, hoping to chow down on a hamburger, was dismayed when the team bus stopped at an Albertson's for food before leaving Idaho Falls. And he described the overnight trip in the cramped bus as "awful."
After arriving at the ballpark the next day, Hancock kept thinking about a speech he made at a youth tournament. He told the kids that if they weren't playing the game to have fun, they didn't need to be playing.
"I'm sitting there in the bullpen eating my words," Hancock said. "I was like, 'Wow.' It came to me, and I made my decision."
Without so much as stepping foot in Casper, Wyo., Hancock decided he didn't want to be a Casper Rockie. He called his mom that night, uncharacteristically sobbing into the phone as he told her he wanted to come home.
"I was in total shock," Holey said. "I couldn't imagine what was so bad. As long as I can remember, all he wanted to do was play baseball."
She tried to talk him into to sticking it out, as did other family members, friends, his agent and members of the Rockies' front office. Nothing anybody said could persuade Hancock to change his mind.
Hancock boarded a plane for home on Aug. 3, walking away from a lifelong dream and a six-figure signing bonus.
"I definitely was stunned by it," Rockies senior director of scouting Bill Schmidt said.
REX C. CURRY/Special Contributor
Kyle Hancock greets players on the 11-under baseball team he coaches after a game in Balch Springs. Hancock is enrolled at Richland Community College and is interested in real estate. So was everybody who knew Hancock. This is the guy who would go for 45-minute runs after select games. This is the level-headed kid whose only high school disciplinary action occurred when he violated the dress code by having a few whiskers on his chin.
"It's the first stupid thing I've ever seen him do," Carmon said.
Hancock's only regret is signing with the Rockies instead of going to Arkansas. He said his gut feeling was to go to school, although he spent his senior season talking about how excited he was to begin his ascent to the big leagues. His mom and grandfather said they regret steering him toward signing with Colorado, but they did so based on advice from baseball insiders.
Hancock, who has a Razorbacks sticker on the back window of his red Dodge truck, filed his appeal with the NCAA in August. He was told the NCAA did not want to set a precedent with his case.
"As long as it got drawn out, I thought there was a chance," Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn said. "The NCAA just probably realized, 'Hey, if we let this guy go, it's going to open up a can of worms.' "
Hancock holds out hope that he'll be able to play college baseball. He said he'll be eligible to play at a junior college if the Rockies release him. Schmidt said releasing Hancock has never been discussed within the organization.
Hancock said he harbors no ill will toward the Rockies, but he hasn't contacted them since boarding the flight in Utah. He just doesn't know if pro ball is for him.
FILE 2005/Staff photo
As a Rowlett senior last year, Hancock went 12-1 with an 0.90 ERA and 144 strikeouts in 91 innings. He turned down a scholarship offer from Arkansas. "I personally would have interest in sitting down and talking with him," Schmidt said. "But it's all starting with him expressing interest."
Realistically, amateur ball is Hancock's only other baseball option. Hancock said he will probably pitch for the Dallas Tigers' 18-under select team this summer.
"I want to see if that sparks a light in me and makes me realize something," Hancock said.
Hancock said he understands that the Rockies would have all the leverage in contract discussions if he decided to return. He figures he'd be lucky to get half of his original signing bonus.
Money has never been his motivation, Hancock said. He just wants to enjoy the game he's loved since childhood.
"I want to go back knowing that this is what I want to do," Hancock said. "I don't want a question mark in my head."
Former Rowlett standout took a $460,000 walk
Pitcher signed with Colorado, then quit without throwing a pitch
11:43 PM CDT on Wednesday, April 12, 2006
By TIM MacMAHON / The Dallas Morning News
ROWLETT – A Colorado Rockies program sits atop a stack of magazines in his family's living room, a subtle reminder of what still could be for Kyle Hancock.
A few steps away is the kitchen table where Hancock, then a 17-year-old about a month removed from his Rowlett High graduation, signed a contract with the Rockies last summer. Hancock, a right-handed pitcher drafted in the third round, agreed to a $460,000 signing bonus.
Hancock never saw a nickel of it. He forfeited the bonus when he bolted from the Casper Rockies, Colorado's Rookie League club, after three days with the team.
Hancock attempted to play for the University of Arkansas, the school he signed with before his senior season. He hoped the NCAA would reinstate his amateur status, since he didn't receive a paycheck or pitch an inning as a professional. But the NCAA denied Hancock's appeal in January.
REX C. CURRY/Special Contributor
Kyle Hancock signals his catcher while coaching a youth team - his only involvement in baseball now, other than tutoring young pitchers and throwing in the bullpen. So Hancock's still at home, unsure of his future. Other than a weekly bullpen session, his involvement in baseball consists of coaching an 11-under team and giving pitching lessons.
He has no plans to rejoin the Rockies, who hold his rights until 2012.
"I think he's throwing away a golden opportunity," said Byron Brown, Hancock's grandfather. "I've told him that if he decides not to go back, it'll be the biggest mistake of his life and he'll regret it for the rest of his life."
Hancock's mother, Becky Holey, gives her son a gentler version of that message almost every day. Stuart Hancock, Kyle's father, lives in Waco and could not be reached for comment.
Rowlett coach Paul Carmon recently spent hours with Hancock at a local restaurant trying to persuade him to give pro ball another shot.
Hancock, however, insists he is content with his decision. He said he isn't bothered by people's opinion that he made a huge mistake.
He is taking 16 credit hours at Richland Community College and considering a transfer to a university as a regular student. He's a business major who is interested in real estate. He's often the big winner in weekly poker games with his buddies, putting some cash in his pockets and satisfying his competitive spirit.
Hancock says he's always been savvy with money. But he's asked almost every day: How could you walk away from $460,000?
Hancock said he has heard many crazy rumors suggesting he has off-the-field issues. He said there isn't a kernel of truth to any of them. His answer is simple: He was miserable during his brief stint at the minor leagues' lowest level.
"Culture shock" was part of it, Hancock said. "As much as I wasn't ready for it ... I wasn't enjoying myself," he said.
Hancock said he smiled the whole time during a tour of Coors Field on July 29. He was dealt a harsh dose of reality when he joined the Casper Rockies in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the next day.
The next stop on the road trip was Orem, Utah. Hancock, hoping to chow down on a hamburger, was dismayed when the team bus stopped at an Albertson's for food before leaving Idaho Falls. And he described the overnight trip in the cramped bus as "awful."
After arriving at the ballpark the next day, Hancock kept thinking about a speech he made at a youth tournament. He told the kids that if they weren't playing the game to have fun, they didn't need to be playing.
"I'm sitting there in the bullpen eating my words," Hancock said. "I was like, 'Wow.' It came to me, and I made my decision."
Without so much as stepping foot in Casper, Wyo., Hancock decided he didn't want to be a Casper Rockie. He called his mom that night, uncharacteristically sobbing into the phone as he told her he wanted to come home.
"I was in total shock," Holey said. "I couldn't imagine what was so bad. As long as I can remember, all he wanted to do was play baseball."
She tried to talk him into to sticking it out, as did other family members, friends, his agent and members of the Rockies' front office. Nothing anybody said could persuade Hancock to change his mind.
Hancock boarded a plane for home on Aug. 3, walking away from a lifelong dream and a six-figure signing bonus.
"I definitely was stunned by it," Rockies senior director of scouting Bill Schmidt said.
REX C. CURRY/Special Contributor
Kyle Hancock greets players on the 11-under baseball team he coaches after a game in Balch Springs. Hancock is enrolled at Richland Community College and is interested in real estate. So was everybody who knew Hancock. This is the guy who would go for 45-minute runs after select games. This is the level-headed kid whose only high school disciplinary action occurred when he violated the dress code by having a few whiskers on his chin.
"It's the first stupid thing I've ever seen him do," Carmon said.
Hancock's only regret is signing with the Rockies instead of going to Arkansas. He said his gut feeling was to go to school, although he spent his senior season talking about how excited he was to begin his ascent to the big leagues. His mom and grandfather said they regret steering him toward signing with Colorado, but they did so based on advice from baseball insiders.
Hancock, who has a Razorbacks sticker on the back window of his red Dodge truck, filed his appeal with the NCAA in August. He was told the NCAA did not want to set a precedent with his case.
"As long as it got drawn out, I thought there was a chance," Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn said. "The NCAA just probably realized, 'Hey, if we let this guy go, it's going to open up a can of worms.' "
Hancock holds out hope that he'll be able to play college baseball. He said he'll be eligible to play at a junior college if the Rockies release him. Schmidt said releasing Hancock has never been discussed within the organization.
Hancock said he harbors no ill will toward the Rockies, but he hasn't contacted them since boarding the flight in Utah. He just doesn't know if pro ball is for him.
FILE 2005/Staff photo
As a Rowlett senior last year, Hancock went 12-1 with an 0.90 ERA and 144 strikeouts in 91 innings. He turned down a scholarship offer from Arkansas. "I personally would have interest in sitting down and talking with him," Schmidt said. "But it's all starting with him expressing interest."
Realistically, amateur ball is Hancock's only other baseball option. Hancock said he will probably pitch for the Dallas Tigers' 18-under select team this summer.
"I want to see if that sparks a light in me and makes me realize something," Hancock said.
Hancock said he understands that the Rockies would have all the leverage in contract discussions if he decided to return. He figures he'd be lucky to get half of his original signing bonus.
Money has never been his motivation, Hancock said. He just wants to enjoy the game he's loved since childhood.
"I want to go back knowing that this is what I want to do," Hancock said. "I don't want a question mark in my head."
This should put an end to all the speculation. The only positive thing I can say is at least he's true to himself and what he believes in. I don't think I would of walked away but who am I to talk. I've never thrown a 90mph fastball.
Despite our agreements or lack thereof on this subject, I think Dirtbag hit the nail on the head ---- KH claims he has no regrets ---- and that should be good enough for all of us.
quote:he bolted from the Casper Rockies, Colorado's Rookie League club, after three days with the team.
quote:Hancock said he smiled the whole time during a tour of Coors Field on July 29. He was dealt a harsh dose of reality when he joined the Casper Rockies in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the next day.
The next stop on the road trip was Orem, Utah. Hancock, hoping to chow down on a hamburger, was dismayed when the team bus stopped at an Albertson's for food before leaving Idaho Falls. And he described the overnight trip in the cramped bus as "awful."
quote:"Culture shock" was part of it, Hancock said.
I respect his decision.
And emphasize these points for those of us with rosy glasses...............
It ain't easy.
It has happened to many, many "can't miss" players..........and hindsight is what it is.
There is undoubtedly some of the best players in the country playing right here in Texas and I for one am tickled to death to have the ability to go to a local school and see it. We also have to remember how only a tiny, tiny percentage of these kids make it to the show. I have had the privilege to see many great ball players over the last 30 years, with three of them being Rookie of the Year.......and I got to see it from the best seat in the house, right behind home plate.
As FO states: "It ain't easy."
There is undoubtedly some of the best players in the country playing right here in Texas and I for one am tickled to death to have the ability to go to a local school and see it. We also have to remember how only a tiny, tiny percentage of these kids make it to the show. I have had the privilege to see many great ball players over the last 30 years, with three of them being Rookie of the Year.......and I got to see it from the best seat in the house, right behind home plate.
As FO states: "It ain't easy."
a "have fun" additude is well suited for the 11 yr olds he's coaching, but unfortunatly Kyle seems to be stuck at their 11 yr emotional level
I generally enjoy what I do to make a living, but I don't see it as "fun" . . . if it was "fun", when my work day was over, I'd just go back to work, and so on and so on . . .
let me point out, I don't begrude him for his choices . . .
but I guess I find it very bizzare that a hs graduate would not comprehend that an opportunity to use his talent to make a very good living required proving himself at "entry level" then climbing the ladder/advancing at whatever rate his success dictated
jmho
I generally enjoy what I do to make a living, but I don't see it as "fun" . . . if it was "fun", when my work day was over, I'd just go back to work, and so on and so on . . .
let me point out, I don't begrude him for his choices . . .
but I guess I find it very bizzare that a hs graduate would not comprehend that an opportunity to use his talent to make a very good living required proving himself at "entry level" then climbing the ladder/advancing at whatever rate his success dictated
jmho
quote:a "have fun" additude is well suited for the 11 yr olds he's coaching, but unfortunatly Kyle seems to be stuck at their 11 yr emotional level
I generally enjoy what I do to make a living, but I don't see it as "fun" . . . if it was "fun", when my work day was over, I'd just go back to work, and so on and so on . . .
let me point out, I don't begrude him for his choices . . .
but I guess I find it very bizzare that a hs graduate would not comprehend that an opportunity to use his talent to make a very good living required proving himself at "entry level" then climbing the ladder/advancing at whatever rate his success dictated
Chairman,
I agree with you 100% here. I think the decision was absolutely one of the most immature one's I've seen in A LONG time by anybody. Give me a break........didn't want to eat at Albertson's? You have GOT to be kidding me. My guess is, he really thought that he could get back in college because he hadn't received any money and hadn't pitched in a game. Now he's too prideful to say he made a bad choice and go ahead and sign and get on with his career. What a waste of an incredible talent.
If the kid does not want to play, he does not want to play and in the end it really is the business of no one else. More power to him.
basicly agree Jemas,
however when one becomes a pro athlete they are fair game to discussion, evaluation . .
and yes, even second guessing and critisizm by "fans" of the game
jmo
however when one becomes a pro athlete they are fair game to discussion, evaluation . .
and yes, even second guessing and critisizm by "fans" of the game
jmo
Excuse me OP, but I thought we were talking about a kid straight out of HS. A teen. Perhaps you became a perfectly adjusted, wise, mature adult when you walked across the stage at your HS.
Alas, I did not. And I know that I had company. I made some stupid choices. Heck, still do.
Thanks to the Good Lord's mercy, my stupid choices didn't bite me too badly.
The young man can certainly still go forward and have a wonderful & productive life. Yes, even without baseball.
Cut him a little slack, maybe?
Alas, I did not. And I know that I had company. I made some stupid choices. Heck, still do.
Thanks to the Good Lord's mercy, my stupid choices didn't bite me too badly.
The young man can certainly still go forward and have a wonderful & productive life. Yes, even without baseball.
Cut him a little slack, maybe?
Texan,
I stand by what I said. It's just my opinion. I wish the kid nothing but the best, but to leave after 3 days is rediculous. I was in his shoes at 18 years old. 3 weeks after graduation was playing minor league ball in West Virginia. It was hard, but the thought of quitting never entered my mind. It was the first time for me to ever be away from mommy too. For him to say he wasn't having fun and he had hardly even stepped foot on a field? How can he say the game wasn't fun when it wasn't the game that wasn't fun? It was not getting to eat somewhere besides Albertson's that he didn't like. It's just beyond my comprehension.......
I stand by what I said. It's just my opinion. I wish the kid nothing but the best, but to leave after 3 days is rediculous. I was in his shoes at 18 years old. 3 weeks after graduation was playing minor league ball in West Virginia. It was hard, but the thought of quitting never entered my mind. It was the first time for me to ever be away from mommy too. For him to say he wasn't having fun and he had hardly even stepped foot on a field? How can he say the game wasn't fun when it wasn't the game that wasn't fun? It was not getting to eat somewhere besides Albertson's that he didn't like. It's just beyond my comprehension.......
quote:If the kid does not want to play, he does not want to play and in the end it really is the business of no one else. More power to him.
Jemaz,
You're absolutely right, but we can still have our opinion on the subject. It's not the end of the world and I won't lose any sleep over all of this, but it's really a bizarre story to me.
quote:however when one becomes a pro athlete they are fair game to discussion, evaluation . .
and yes, even second guessing and critisizm by "fans" of the game
Chairman,
I whole-heartedly agree with that statement!! I guess he is where he wants to be now, with the 11 year olds that he's coaching. I just can't quit shaking my head when I think about this whole thing.......It's mind boggling!
Will he be eligible to play for Tommy this summer since he signed a pro contract?
I dont care whos life it is and or what his feelings are, the kids an idiotm. Im sorry, in triple i swear we are going to have birthday cake and baloons after everygame..we are going to have fun...pull the tampon out..hate me if u want, but the fact is, what college coach would want a 95 mph quitter on there team...kids a joke regardless how good he is.!!
here's a tissue han-****!!!
here's a tissue han-****!!!
quote:Originally posted by Open Eyes:
I dont care whos life it is and or what his feelings are, the kids an idiotm. Im sorry, in triple i swear we are going to have birthday cake and baloons after everygame..we are going to have fun...pull the tampon out..hate me if u want, but the fact is, what college coach would want a 95 mph quitter on there team...kids a joke regardless how good he is.!!
here's a tissue han-****!!!
And who taught you how to spell, punctuate and use grammar? An ape?
quote:And who taught you how to spell, punctuate and use grammar? An ape?
Could this be APF in disguise?