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Our national pastime It's Not About the MoneyBy Rick Horowitz Click. " -- and all because those Rottweilers dialed 9-1-1. Ken?" "Quite a story, Rory -- thanks! Well, it's time for the latest news from spring training, and we're in luck: Larry's not only working on his Florida tan, he's actually working! In fact, he's with one of the guys who'll have plenty to say about the kind of season we're gonna have this year. Larry?" "That's right, Ken. I'm here with 'The Mallet' himself -- first baseman Hubie Nicetamee. Welcome to camp, Hubie -- the fans down here were wondering when you were going to show up." "I had to take care of some personal business, Larry -- took a little longer than I expected." "So these reports we're hearing about how you're mad about your contract, and that's why you were late?" "I'm here, Larry, and I'll be ready to go Opening Day. For these guys, or wherever." "'Wherever'? But they're not looking to trade you, are they? You've been a big part of their plans all winter." "I'm really not sure what they want anymore, Larry. I mean, if I was really such a big part of their plans, you think they'd try to show it." "So it sounds like you are upset about the contract. We hear your agent told them they either renegotiate your current deal, and give you a multi-year extension at a much higher salary, or you want out." "It's not about the money, Larry." "It's not?" "It's about respect. It's about how they value me for my contributions. I'm just looking for some kind of sign that they appreciate what I do." "You made $8.2 million last year..." "You see what I mean?" "You're making $9.1 million this year..." "And $10.5 the year after that -- it's embarrassing!" "It is?" "With the kind of numbers they're throwing around these days? You've got guys making 15, 20, 25 million a year! I can hardly look at myself in the mirror every morning." "That's gotta be tough on you. Let me ask you this, though: When you signed this contract a few years ago, it was for five years at 39 million, and you said -- I'm quoting you here -- 'I'm set for life.'" "I was talking, you know, hypothetically." "You were?" "Sure. I didn't have any idea they'd be paying people what they're paying now. I just want my fair share, that's all." "Even if this whole thing causes a big distraction for the team?" "I'm just like everybody else, Larry: I play better when I'm happy. And if I'm not happy..." "That sounds like a threat." "It's not a threat -- it's human nature. I just know I'd be a lot happier with another five years and another 100 million dollars." "Hubie, you hit .227 last year. You hit only four home runs all season." "So? I've got potential." "Hubie, you just turned 36." "I'm a late bloomer." Click. Posted 2/27/01. You'll
find plenty of hits right here at "Rick's" -- have you told your friends?
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Rick Horowitz
