Quote:
Take Johan Santana, for example. The Mets are paying him $20 million this year to be their #1 starter as they try to get back to the postseason for the first time since 2006, coming off of two straight heartbreaking finishes. He's kind of important to their chances. Following a season in which he may have been the best starter in the NL, Santana underwent minor knee surgery, and as February approaches, he is unsure as to whether he will pitch in the WBC. This isn't entirely his decision—the Mets will have a say—but it's indicative of the choices the players have to make. With all due respect to Venezuela, Johan Santana's first loyalty should be to the Mets. I would not question Daisuke Matsuzaka's patriotism, but his first thought needs to be about the Red Sox. Matt Holliday isn't any less an American for passing on the red, white, and blue to wear the green and gold.
*Emphasis is added by me