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43rd Round Pick - Oliver Drake - from the Naval Academy

McLovin

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McNulty Hangout Grand Counsel

McNulty

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If given the choice between being a JO (junior officer) or a minor leaguer, I'd take minor leaguer every single time. Being an officer is no fun, particularly the first few years. I'd much rather play ball for peanuts, and make the club that drafted me pay for any penalties or education if baseball didn't work out.

I still don't understand why the Navy wouldn't let him out of his contract. Doesn't this set a bad precedent for future cadets who are good ballplayers?

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McLovin Veteran All-Star

McLovin

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If given the choice between being a JO (junior officer) or a minor leaguer, I'd take minor leaguer every single time. Being an officer is no fun, particularly the first few years. I'd much rather play ball for peanuts, and make the club that drafted me pay for any penalties or education if baseball didn't work out.

Yeah, but you are talking about a guy who went through the arduous process of getting accepted into one of the most prestigious universities in the country, and who is more than likely wired very differently than most when it comes to wanting to serve his country...

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NCRaven Hangout Grand Counsel

NCRaven

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If given the choice between being a JO (junior officer) or a minor leaguer, I'd take minor leaguer every single time. Being an officer is no fun, particularly the first few years. I'd much rather play ball for peanuts, and make the club that drafted me pay for any penalties or education if baseball didn't work out.

I still don't understand why the Navy wouldn't let him out of his contract. Doesn't this set a bad precedent for future cadets who are good ballplayers?

As a former Army officer, I'm totally opposed to letting anyone out - once they've made their final commitment - to play ball. The US Naval Academy does not exist for the purpose of college sports. Neither do Westpoint or Colorado Springs. This young man seems to be in a different position, not having made his final commitment and I have no problem with any decision he makes since it doesn't involve a special allowance for an athlete.

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McNulty Hangout Grand Counsel

McNulty

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I'm totally opposed to letting anyone out - once they've made their final commitment - to play ball. The US Naval Academy does not exist for the purpose of college sports.

How can you say this? It shouldn't prohibit young men from pursuing their dreams. If they want to attract D-1 athletes, then they need to be willing to allow them to pursue opportunities if/when they present themselves. How many officers graduate each year from the academy? I'm sure they can spare the handful that get picked up for pro sports.

And just so you know, I'm in the military. I'm not just talking out of my butt here.

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