Lesson 7: Keep Some Griffey-Like Player-Coaches

Some older veterans can still play a bit but their real value is that they are also coaches. These players are highly respected by younger players, help set the clubhouse chemistry (also called organizational culture), and are revered by the other players. No team can be made up of solely this kind of players, but every team needs a few in strategic positions. These player-coaches love to develop talent and encourage and train young leaders, and thus are an invaluable asset to the organization. Still, any older player who cannot play well, does not coach well, and is not a supportive ally in building a good clubhouse should not be getting paid by the team. To be continued.