But, yes, the time had come for Young to go. I just don't see any reason for any glee, even from the idiot element.
The Rangers are mired in an offseason holding pattern at the moment, with so much to do and still nothing done. But because of ongoing slippage on defense, Young's best position may have been DH, and his bat work dropped so dramatically last season you couldn't pencil him in there for 2013.
Washington, however, would have had Young in the lineup somewhere next season, if, of course, Young had still been with the Rangers. Ron's loyalty and love for MY was unconditional.
In a way, this trade benefits Washington more than anyone else. An ongoing fight has been erased with those in the front office who want to step beyond their assigned jobs and also attempt to fill out the lineup card.
There were some ugly moments last season in this area, but Washington, from the standpoint of holding his clubhouse together, absolutely did the right thing. He continued to play Young, who was a clubhouse icon, beloved by his teammates.
But as was written here last September, if the front office wanted Young gone, then the time would come in the offseason. The offseason is when the front office could do something about its Michael Young dislike.
And the front office has now done something about it.
But you don't do it when a two-time defending American League champion is in first place in the division and on another course for the postseason. Then, of course, came the collapse by the Rangers, which, ironically, had nothing to do with Young.
Despite dismal overall numbers, MY hit .313 with four homers and 15 RBIs in September/October.
Now he's gone, but the legacy of Michael Young will long live in Rangers lore.
He was a darn good ballplayer and a darn good human being.
Thanks, Michael.
MCT Information Services
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