There has always been a perception among some sports fans that when a player signs a big-money contract, they will all of a sudden lose their desire to keep getting better and producing. It’s almost always a misconception because professional athletes, no matter the sport, do not make it to the highest level by ever becoming complacent to that level.
Professional athletes are not wired like the fans who watch them and the media that covers them, and it’s a big part of why they make it as far as they do.
Sure, athletic ability and talent are a primary part of it, but it’s not the only thing. It can’t be the only thing. Talent might help you get there, but it’s not going to keep you there without work, and it’s not going to take you to the highest level.
There is a desire and competitiveness that most people simply do not have.
Professional athletes don’t typically lose that mindset.
But Toronto Blue Jays fans might have some reason to be concerned about their best player, and highest-paid player, based on what Vladimir Guerrero Jr. said about his 14-year, $500 million contract this week.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is wrong about his contract
The comment that is getting the most attention is Guerrero Jr.’s belief that his contract is paying him for what he has already done for Toronto, and not a representation of what he will do or should be doing:
“The contract I got was based on what I did, not necessarily for what I’m going to do. I understand why the fans believe it’s the other way around. Sometimes I think that way too, like ‘oh they give me this money and I’m not doing enough,’ but you know I try my best and I’m working hard,” Guerrero said.