Kenny Rogers

The media seem split on whether Kenny Rogers did the right thing.

I was a bit surprised to see him show. Knowing that Bud did not really want Rogers at the game, I am surprised that Rogers did not cut a deal with MLB to reduce his suspension in exchange for bowing out - of course not a public admission that such a deal was made. Maybe Rogers tried. And maybe Bud would not have been tempted. But Rogers could have at least made an offer. Faced with missing 4-5 starts and his team very much in the Wild Card (hell even the division) race, I would have said "I will stay away from the ASG and not be a potential distraction, if you reduce my suspension to 10 or 12 games." Sure MLB then runs the risk of looking like they are caving/condoning that behavior if they agree, but Bud is already on record that he is not happy about seeing the footage, hearing the talk, etc during the game.

Who knows, maybe the discussions occurred and they couldn't agree.