Here it is. Son is a rising sophomore in college. Before season started, he got put on a summer collegiate team in a decent league; mix of JUCOs, NAIA, all the way up to guys just returning from their team losing in regionals this past weekend. Got put with a host family. He has his freshman year at his JUCO, and it really was a struggle. Mental issues, worried about failing, etc. So he only throws about 15 innings with an 8. ERA. Actually showed improvement over the last couple outings so he was feeling good and coach gave him vote of confidence.
So the roster comes out and the pitchers are all over the place, you got what seem to be a couple number 1s, some guys who were average on their staff, and honestly some guys with worse stats than what my son had. Yeah, I checked it out. Wanted to see the competition.
So he moves in with the host family, loves them and everything about the city. Now the problem. He has yet to see the mound in the first few games. He called today and said the two guys scheduled tonight will be making their third appearance. I keep asking if he has done anything to make the coaches mad, dogging it in practice, etc. Keeps saying no. He is the only player who has not seen the field. Now teammates are asking him why he hasnt thrown yet.
So, we paid to have him in this league. My thing is can I call the guy that runs the team and ask for a release for him and get money back, and even the deposit? I can see not having an issue if he pitched and got lit up, but he hasnt had a chance yet. To me, it's like going to McDonalds, ordering food, paying for it, and not getting any food before we leave. I don't see a point in him wasting a summer there if he will never play, wasting the time, energy and money of his host family, and losing a shot at him trying to get on another team before it is too late. And I get the point of playing to win, and not getting equal time. But to get zero time? He could be the best or worst pitcher on the team, but they may never find out.
I told him to call his college coach and ask for advise, and also to ask summer coach what he has to do to see the mound. Like I said, it would be an easier decision if he would have gotten a chance and was lit up.
Is it normal for summer coaches to do this to players to see if they quit?
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