Plight of old baseball players

I just barely remember the tail end of Bob Feller's career as a pitcher with the Cleveland Indians, but in later years I got to see him a lot.

Feller died this week at the age of 92.

When the Indians used to train in Winter Haven, not too long ago, I would go to the games there, especially when the Mets played. I recall Feller being there signing autographs ... for a price.

It was quite a shock, in this day of inflated multi-million dollar salaries for ball players, to see one of the greatest pitchers ever reduced to selling his signature so he could make a living.

Baseball should be ashamed of the way it takes care of older players. While the younger spoiled athletes ride around in fancy cars, live in mansions, party all night and do various other things, some of these older guys who made baseball what it is today are struggling.

The message of Bob Feller signing autographs for money should be clear. Major League Baseball needs to take care of its veterans, because without the things they did, these millionaires of today might not be rolling in wealth.