Ok....
Who has this happened to this fall or in the past year or two and how has your son handled it?
Thanks.
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Btil - don't know anyone personally who was released but a couple of schools we visited let a handful of kids go. A few were starters and I know of two who transferred and did quite well.
A tough situation for a kid especially if he's been there a few years and really likes the school & had strong personal/academic ties.
A tough situation for a kid especially if he's been there a few years and really likes the school & had strong personal/academic ties.
I know of a few who have gotten releases (for various reasons). They have all transferred and are now playing elsewhere. From what I hear....after the initial shock wore off...they are doing well and are happy with their new environments.
Been,
I got released from a semi-pro team this summer, for absolutely no straight reason, it was very, very hard and trying mentally.
I had to take a 44 hour bus ride home, most of those 44 hours were spent re-evaluating my stand on playing baseabll anymore. It hurt being released, especially when it was over the phone and no reason was given.
I fought with the idea of giving up on baseball, just going to school getting a degree and working the rest of my life. I got depressed for a little while (about 3-4 weeks) I was a total wreck, I didn't play for the remainder of the summer, took some time away from the game to see what life would be like without it and then finally realised that if I gave up on baseball I'd always sit there and wonder "What if..." I realised how fortunate I was to be given the chance to go and play at that level, and all the opportunites that Baseball had given me. I talked it over with some close friends, and they all offered good solid advice.
Then it hit me, I wouldn't be happy doing anything else but playing this great game. I got more determined to go and play and my passion and desire came back even more then in the past to go out there and reach that goal of MLB.
For a while though as I said I was a total wreck, at first I didn't want to talk to anyone about it, I didn't want to be around anyone or do much of anything, but then I came around.
Now I can't wait to get back onto that field. Hopefully I can (shoulder permitting)
I got released from a semi-pro team this summer, for absolutely no straight reason, it was very, very hard and trying mentally.
I had to take a 44 hour bus ride home, most of those 44 hours were spent re-evaluating my stand on playing baseabll anymore. It hurt being released, especially when it was over the phone and no reason was given.
I fought with the idea of giving up on baseball, just going to school getting a degree and working the rest of my life. I got depressed for a little while (about 3-4 weeks) I was a total wreck, I didn't play for the remainder of the summer, took some time away from the game to see what life would be like without it and then finally realised that if I gave up on baseball I'd always sit there and wonder "What if..." I realised how fortunate I was to be given the chance to go and play at that level, and all the opportunites that Baseball had given me. I talked it over with some close friends, and they all offered good solid advice.
Then it hit me, I wouldn't be happy doing anything else but playing this great game. I got more determined to go and play and my passion and desire came back even more then in the past to go out there and reach that goal of MLB.
For a while though as I said I was a total wreck, at first I didn't want to talk to anyone about it, I didn't want to be around anyone or do much of anything, but then I came around.
Now I can't wait to get back onto that field. Hopefully I can (shoulder permitting)
BT, a friend/ex hs-summer team-mate of my sons was released -
he was an 01 hs grad who was drafted & signed
maybe not alot of trauma, but I could be wrong - this is his 3rd release in 2 yrs, so does it get easier? I don't know -
I do know from what his dad says, school is a distant option - looking at 4 or 5 yrs of study as a 26 yr old who has been "living his dream" since hs is not too attractive to his son - at this time
Dad says he'll come home & work out, then try again to sign on with an organization or Indy next spring
he's a great kid, but his options are getting fewer & Dad says his son feels college at 26 would be a "forced fit" - but - - there's plenty of room in the basement for him & wife (hs girlfriend) -
IF she sticks it out another yr
I wish him the best -
he was an 01 hs grad who was drafted & signed
maybe not alot of trauma, but I could be wrong - this is his 3rd release in 2 yrs, so does it get easier? I don't know -
I do know from what his dad says, school is a distant option - looking at 4 or 5 yrs of study as a 26 yr old who has been "living his dream" since hs is not too attractive to his son - at this time
Dad says he'll come home & work out, then try again to sign on with an organization or Indy next spring
he's a great kid, but his options are getting fewer & Dad says his son feels college at 26 would be a "forced fit" - but - - there's plenty of room in the basement for him & wife (hs girlfriend) -
IF she sticks it out another yr
I wish him the best -
Bee-
You point out an interesting situation. I have seen this as well and folks on this board need to see the other side of the "sign out of hs" scenario. It is quite difficult to start college at the age of 26, and 4 years of coursework is a LONG time.
You point out an interesting situation. I have seen this as well and folks on this board need to see the other side of the "sign out of hs" scenario. It is quite difficult to start college at the age of 26, and 4 years of coursework is a LONG time.
I did it...went to college at 26, graduated at 30....enjoyed the 4 years at University...loved it....and walked on air the day I got my degree....think it's like anything else...if you value it...if you want it badly enough....you'll do it.....maybe these kids just want baseball more....
Sorry but I can't agree with all the doom and gloom. Seems to me there are many women who returned to school and new careers after their first career as mom is over( not that is ever over) 
They are much older then 26, but they are supporting themselves and getting a degree. It is an exciting time in their life.. why should it be any different at the end of a baseball career.... Come on guys ..It can be done.
They are much older then 26, but they are supporting themselves and getting a degree. It is an exciting time in their life.. why should it be any different at the end of a baseball career.... Come on guys ..It can be done.
I've actually been thinking about this subject for about a week - ever since another poster was telling me about cuts at his son's school. Then my son comes home this past weekend and says coach tells them he's cutting kids in the next few weeks. While it would be a tough situation for mom/dad to hear, it's the player that my heart goes out to. That's a tough situation for them - to face their own disappointment, but then to have to tell the parents and friends. I'm one of these people that believe that you truly grow from a challenge and like luvbb says, there's probably a better fit/situation out there for them. There should be some soul searching, hugs, and then formulate a plan on what the best options for the young man are.
I'm editing this after seeing Been's post below - I think the same stragies apply for the pro player. You still have the disappointment and soul searching for a plan. Whether that means returning to school or trying to sign with another club.
As far as returning to school in late twenties - I did it and under some very difficult circumstances. Just a matter of what someone wants and many 20 somethings, as well as some 40 somethings realize what they need or want in life includes an education. No reason they can't.
I'm editing this after seeing Been's post below - I think the same stragies apply for the pro player. You still have the disappointment and soul searching for a plan. Whether that means returning to school or trying to sign with another club.
As far as returning to school in late twenties - I did it and under some very difficult circumstances. Just a matter of what someone wants and many 20 somethings, as well as some 40 somethings realize what they need or want in life includes an education. No reason they can't.
To those who have asked...No, this doesn't involve the son at Princeton.
Wow...This is great so far.
I had really intended to get some feedback from those who were released from professional baseball teams (usually happens now and after instructional league is over and before spring training begins).
Can't imagine the heartache of being asked to give up your scholarship money or asked to turn in a college uniform. Wow!
Anyone close to someone who was released from pro ball in the past couple of years? In the past few months?
Wow...This is great so far.
I had really intended to get some feedback from those who were released from professional baseball teams (usually happens now and after instructional league is over and before spring training begins).
Can't imagine the heartache of being asked to give up your scholarship money or asked to turn in a college uniform. Wow!
Anyone close to someone who was released from pro ball in the past couple of years? In the past few months?
Do not know anyone personally, but sons hs summer team coach told me that when they cut (before spring training) on his son's minor league team (Red Sox) it was a sad day to see his friends leave.
I often wish I had played long enough to have been released. 
Responding not to the "been released" topic, but the "what happens next" topic of going back to college later in life:
My husband attended college for 2 yrs right after HS but did not complete a 2-yr degree. At the age of 30 he went back to college fulltime, while working fulltime, with a wife (me) working 50 hrs/week, and 2-yr-old and 2-month-old sons. Only a few of his classes from the previous college transferred to the new degree (very different major). It was difficult and stressful, but he earned a degree in his 30s which led to a very satisfying career. My sister and her husband both went back to college to earn their masters' degrees in their 30s, while working fulltime, when they had 3 school-age children. It's not easy, but neither is earning your degree while playing college baseball!
My husband attended college for 2 yrs right after HS but did not complete a 2-yr degree. At the age of 30 he went back to college fulltime, while working fulltime, with a wife (me) working 50 hrs/week, and 2-yr-old and 2-month-old sons. Only a few of his classes from the previous college transferred to the new degree (very different major). It was difficult and stressful, but he earned a degree in his 30s which led to a very satisfying career. My sister and her husband both went back to college to earn their masters' degrees in their 30s, while working fulltime, when they had 3 school-age children. It's not easy, but neither is earning your degree while playing college baseball!
I know a number of players that have been released - college, indy, minor and major league players. The toughest was the college player. Sort of drifted through life for about two years not knowing what do next and very burdened by what he saw as his personal shortcomings that lead to his release. He's happy and well adjusted now, thankfully, and imparted some great words of wisdom to my son about character and taking school seriously.
Two minor leaguers just sort of took it in stride, knowing that it was probably an eventuality for them. Both are still involved in baseball as instructors. One guy that used to throw bullpen with my son asked for his release after not making it above A ball after his second season. Married with a baby, he felt he had to provide for his family rather than try to survive on the little money he earned playiing ball.
The major league player who spent six years in the big leagues and pitched in a World Series views it now as the best thing that ever happened to him. Still loves the game, but he always realized there are things in life more important than baseball. He is a teacher, coach and mentor to a great bunch of high school kids. As he put it, he misses the big payday almost as much as the competition and wouldn't change anything, including his release, if he had it to do over again. I have great admiration and respect for this guy, and his (still very nasty) curveball has little to do with that. If you would like to hear an ESPN radio interview he did about a year ago in which he talks about his love for the game and the eventual path that it took him down, private message me and I will arrange for a cd to be mailed to you.
Two minor leaguers just sort of took it in stride, knowing that it was probably an eventuality for them. Both are still involved in baseball as instructors. One guy that used to throw bullpen with my son asked for his release after not making it above A ball after his second season. Married with a baby, he felt he had to provide for his family rather than try to survive on the little money he earned playiing ball.
The major league player who spent six years in the big leagues and pitched in a World Series views it now as the best thing that ever happened to him. Still loves the game, but he always realized there are things in life more important than baseball. He is a teacher, coach and mentor to a great bunch of high school kids. As he put it, he misses the big payday almost as much as the competition and wouldn't change anything, including his release, if he had it to do over again. I have great admiration and respect for this guy, and his (still very nasty) curveball has little to do with that. If you would like to hear an ESPN radio interview he did about a year ago in which he talks about his love for the game and the eventual path that it took him down, private message me and I will arrange for a cd to be mailed to you.
Son's college room-mate had interesting experience...Son and other room-mate told us this story while laughing...Apparently this young man was the unofficial procurer of TP when the room ran out-had quite a reputation as someone who could talk his way in or out of anything.The young man was not drafted but decided to try out, made the team, scraped up a meager savings and drove himself to the organization, the day he arrived, he and a few other players were traded(at this point son was doubled over...apparently it is "not good" to be traded in a package in the minors), Slept in his car, and made it to second destination, upon arrival at second destination was told coach no longer there and he was no longer needed, but somehow got a chance with another organization had just enough money to make it to last destination, stayed three days and was dropped from roster. Sold car, flew home and talked his way into a great job. I left out alot of very funny incidentals that might get someone into a little trouble!
If you play professional baseball long enough, you either get released or "release yourself". Not an easy thing to deal with, especially once you've risen to that high a level. Baseball at the pro level is a business, however, so it isn't unexpected.
DEFINETLY do-able...going back to college at an older age. I did it in my thirties (another under-grad degree)....so I was in class with a bunch of 18-19 year old! It was a little uncomfortable at first.....but I got over it quick. Plus, I realized I took my education ALOT MORE SERIOUSLY at 35 years old, than I did when I was 18 the first time I went to college! And my grades proved it! 
CatSureMom, that sounds like a great movie! Rick are you reading this? 
I personally know of 3 situations, (1) D1 & (2) D3 college situations that there was a release but both sides knew it coming sooner or later. Whether it is on the field or in the classroom, baseball is a commitment and school is a commitment, if a player is unable to balance, or give 100% both ways, something has to give. In all the situations it was justified, and all parties understood the situation.
In most cases where a release is looming, I'm sure there is no fun going to the field or working out with the team and the release is is the official break of the relationship. The whole situation kind of sounds like a broken marriage, many times it's no ones fault, but it's for the best it happens.
In most cases where a release is looming, I'm sure there is no fun going to the field or working out with the team and the release is is the official break of the relationship. The whole situation kind of sounds like a broken marriage, many times it's no ones fault, but it's for the best it happens.
Players need to realize that it all comes to an end sooner or later and for many it is sooner rather later.
The players just needs to accept it and just get on with his life
The players just needs to accept it and just get on with his life
RE: Starting college at an older age.
I started college in 1972 right out of high school much like all of the other freshman that I knew. I soon discovered that many of my fellow freshmen were not right out of high school but were Vietnam veterans just back from the war. These guys were all in their early to mid twenties.
Almost without exception they were really good students with much more focus than I could ever muster. It was apparent to me that college had a lot of value and meaning to these guys...they were experienced and mature...and this is how they carried themselves.
I was impressed with these guys and looked up to them then and still do.
To the older prospective student...go for it...build a good life...chances are you'll be admired by the younger students.
I started college in 1972 right out of high school much like all of the other freshman that I knew. I soon discovered that many of my fellow freshmen were not right out of high school but were Vietnam veterans just back from the war. These guys were all in their early to mid twenties.
Almost without exception they were really good students with much more focus than I could ever muster. It was apparent to me that college had a lot of value and meaning to these guys...they were experienced and mature...and this is how they carried themselves.
I was impressed with these guys and looked up to them then and still do.
To the older prospective student...go for it...build a good life...chances are you'll be admired by the younger students.
The devils advocate asks.......
Is the older college graduate discrimminated against when entering the workforce?
In other words does the 22 yr old college grad have a better chance in an entry level position the the 32 year old?
Also, the work force is becomming a Masters degree minimium mentality. Where does that put the older "post masters" student in his/her mid-thirties.
I feel today's corporate America is a little messed up when dealing with this age group.
Is the older college graduate discrimminated against when entering the workforce?
In other words does the 22 yr old college grad have a better chance in an entry level position the the 32 year old?
Also, the work force is becomming a Masters degree minimium mentality. Where does that put the older "post masters" student in his/her mid-thirties.
I feel today's corporate America is a little messed up when dealing with this age group.
rz1:
I understand your arguement. My reply would be...maybe corporate America ain't for everyone?
I understand your arguement. My reply would be...maybe corporate America ain't for everyone?
rz1....I had worked in Human Resources, or Personnal as it was call back then....straight out of high school. So, at 30, with a new degree in Business Admin in hand...and all my prior experience....I was the first graduate, in my major, to get job offers. I started working as an Assistant Labor Relations Manager 1 week after graduation. Experience is a good thing too..and that is what the older grad will usually have.....versus the "traditional" grad....
I have a good friend whose son went to Ole Miss a few years ago and was redshirted his first year. Sat the second year. Sat the third year. Then he was cut just recently.
Arizonared,
I can't agree more with the experience issues. If I were in a hiring position I would probably look at the older candidate first because of experience. My initial post was from the devils advocate point of view, not my own.
However, the experience you talk of is practical work experience prior to going back to school. The guy who leaves baseball, unless he is going into a baseball related field, does not have experience in the "real" workforce. There are some exceptions, but generally speaking.
I can't agree more with the experience issues. If I were in a hiring position I would probably look at the older candidate first because of experience. My initial post was from the devils advocate point of view, not my own.
However, the experience you talk of is practical work experience prior to going back to school. The guy who leaves baseball, unless he is going into a baseball related field, does not have experience in the "real" workforce. There are some exceptions, but generally speaking.
quote:Originally posted by rz1:
The devils advocate asks.......
Is the older college graduate discrimminated against when entering the workforce?
In other words does the 22 yr old college grad have a better chance in an entry level position the the 32 year old?
Also, the work force is becomming a Masters degree minimium mentality. Where does that put the older "post masters" student in his/her mid-thirties.
I feel today's corporate America is a little messed up when dealing with this age group.
Rz1
1) I wouldnt call it discrimated against. Just practical business consideration.
2) Yes - IMO - the 22 year old has a much better chance.
3) It puts the older Masters degree person in a tougher spot - especially if they have no prior corporate experience.
4) Today's corporate America is just as messed up as yesterday's corporate America. LOL - Just some slightly different issues - but still a "dog eat dog" environment. That is why they call it work.
IMO
Itsintg,
Again I agree. Good question for you then.
If your son was in a position to be drafted, ~10th round, would you try to convince him to get 3 years of his education out of the way before pursuing his professional dream? Or, do the baseball thing out of HS, come back for the education when all is done, and deal with the "dog eat dog" environment where he might be the small fish in a big pond?
Again I agree. Good question for you then.
If your son was in a position to be drafted, ~10th round, would you try to convince him to get 3 years of his education out of the way before pursuing his professional dream? Or, do the baseball thing out of HS, come back for the education when all is done, and deal with the "dog eat dog" environment where he might be the small fish in a big pond?
quote:Originally posted by rz1:
Itsintg,
Again I agree. Good question for you then.
If your son was in a position to be drafted, ~10th round, would you try to convince him to get 3 years of his education out of the way before pursuing his professional dream? Or, do the baseball thing, come back for the education and deal with the "dog eat dog" environment?
Actually - he is in his third academic year - being contacted by some pro teams - so this is real to us.
First - I would tell him to do what was in his heart.
Second - I would give him my opinion of the tradeoffs.
Third - I would support him in his decision.
Regardless of his choice - the "dog eat dog" world will be waiting for him. IMO.
rz1....I knew you were asking...and didn't necessarily believe it....
As a former HR Mgr....I'm going to give a 26 year old, former ball player, a lot of credit too....may not have work related experience, but I know that chances are good....he is disciplined, willing to work hard, and can handle adversity....
It's...it becomes discrimination if the older candidate is qualifed for the position...and it goes to the younger candidate because of age. It does happen, but....we, as in old, do have recourse...and I think most corporate businesses are aware of that.....and try to ensure consistency and fairness in their hiring practices...
As a former HR Mgr....I'm going to give a 26 year old, former ball player, a lot of credit too....may not have work related experience, but I know that chances are good....he is disciplined, willing to work hard, and can handle adversity....
It's...it becomes discrimination if the older candidate is qualifed for the position...and it goes to the younger candidate because of age. It does happen, but....we, as in old, do have recourse...and I think most corporate businesses are aware of that.....and try to ensure consistency and fairness in their hiring practices...
quote:Originally posted by arizonared:
rz1....I knew you were asking...and didn't necessarily believe it....
As a former HR Mgr....I'm going to give a 26 year old, former ball player, a lot of credit too....may not have work related experience, but I know that chances are good....he is disciplined, willing to work hard, and can handle adversity....
It's...it becomes discrimination if the older candidate is qualifed for the position...and it goes to the younger candidate because of age. It does happen, but....we, as in old, do have recourse...and I think most corporate businesses are aware of that.....and try to ensure consistency and fairness in their hiring practices...
I am painfully aware of discrimination laws.
I also gave my opinion of what real life in the corporate workplace is - from what I have seen the last 25 years.
Thats about it.
It's & AZred,
I think we are all on the same page. Every situation as it's own set of consequences, and until the reality sets in, no one really knows what will happen.
Sometimes "real life" experiences are more valuable than "practical". Personally, in a hiring situation I would lean toward the baseball player because of the agressive mindset, and for years he has been competing against the best in his field which fuels a competitive nature.
Same boat, same mindset
I think we are all on the same page. Every situation as it's own set of consequences, and until the reality sets in, no one really knows what will happen.
quote:Regardless of his choice - the "dog eat dog" world will be waiting for him. IMO.
Sometimes "real life" experiences are more valuable than "practical". Personally, in a hiring situation I would lean toward the baseball player because of the agressive mindset, and for years he has been competing against the best in his field which fuels a competitive nature.
quote:Actually - he is in his third academic year - being contacted by some pro teams - so this is real to us.
First - I would tell him to do what was in his heart.
Second - I would give him my opinion of the tradeoffs.
Third - I would support him in his decision.
Same boat, same mindset
I am one of those that finished at an older age (28)...it has more meaning after getting some experience in the world. Much of your illusions have been tempered.
When I left BB I did so of my own volition, didn't like that feeling of being part of a meat market. Hung up my cleats and went to work.
It's not for everyone. But I have tried to advise my son to prepare himself for that day when he no longer gets to play two on a hot summer day in front of a good crowd.
I'd much rather see him finish college first then worry about earning a living, BB or not.
When I left BB I did so of my own volition, didn't like that feeling of being part of a meat market. Hung up my cleats and went to work.
It's not for everyone. But I have tried to advise my son to prepare himself for that day when he no longer gets to play two on a hot summer day in front of a good crowd.
I'd much rather see him finish college first then worry about earning a living, BB or not.
I can only offer a thought.
Although some of us old folks went to college and earned a 4 year degree and joined the workforce, in some areas of the country a 4 year degree means nothing. Down here many business grads are going for real estate and mortgage licenses, along with insurance school. They just can't make it or get a job with only a 4 year degree. My brother is a good example, with an engineering degree he was unable to find a job that met his needs, so he is now a contractor/mortgage broker. Teachers need more than 4 year degrees to make a decent living.
We live in a different world these days. I know lots of collge graduates that are finding themselves having to go back to graduate school, some other schooling,so now you are talking not 4 but possibly 6,7 more years. I think the older 32 with a degree and graduate school might get the job over the 22 year old just entering the workforce.
Chicks,
After completeing a redshirt year, then sitting, player needed to get a release to go find someplace where he could have played. Unfortunetly it's difficult for players who spend two years on the bench, there is nothing to substantiate his ability. Not true in all cases, but needs to be taken into consideration.
Don't know how this post morphed, but as far as being released at anytime (in pro) it's good to have a real working backup plan available.
Although some of us old folks went to college and earned a 4 year degree and joined the workforce, in some areas of the country a 4 year degree means nothing. Down here many business grads are going for real estate and mortgage licenses, along with insurance school. They just can't make it or get a job with only a 4 year degree. My brother is a good example, with an engineering degree he was unable to find a job that met his needs, so he is now a contractor/mortgage broker. Teachers need more than 4 year degrees to make a decent living.
We live in a different world these days. I know lots of collge graduates that are finding themselves having to go back to graduate school, some other schooling,so now you are talking not 4 but possibly 6,7 more years. I think the older 32 with a degree and graduate school might get the job over the 22 year old just entering the workforce.
Chicks,
After completeing a redshirt year, then sitting, player needed to get a release to go find someplace where he could have played. Unfortunetly it's difficult for players who spend two years on the bench, there is nothing to substantiate his ability. Not true in all cases, but needs to be taken into consideration.
Don't know how this post morphed, but as far as being released at anytime (in pro) it's good to have a real working backup plan available.
Good point TPM.