And So I Face the Final Curtain...

Professional athletes are notoriously bad at recognizing sunsets. More specifically, when to walk into them (see: Favre, Brett).  The Tedy Bruschis of the world are few and far between; the ability to step away without deteriorating skills or a broken body forcing management’s hand a rarity. 

In most cases, we get what occurred with Jorge Posada this past week.  True, this specific instance was handled particularly poorly by all parties involved – player, coach, and management alike - but it does put renewed focus on the age-old problem of putting fading icons out to pasture.  What is the best way to tell a Hall of Famer, prideful and prolonging the inevitable, that he’s now hurting the team he’s given so much to?  Especially when he’s beloved by a passionate and loyal fan base, as is the case in New York.  Is there a correct way to cut ties and still save face? 

Regardless, in light of last week’s debacle it’s definitely in the Yankees best interests to at least give the issue a little more thought.  Posada's situation is only the beginning of what looks to be a series of bitter departures in the coming years.

Hopefully for us passionate baseball fanatics, all of our aging superstars - Red Sock and Yankee alike - are able to find a happy compromise with their teams and cities.  And in the most ideal of scenarios - to find happiness in each other’s as well. 

In this, we look to Big Papi to lead the way.   

That's what I'm talkin' about.