The Detroit slugger Miguel Cabrera has decided to forego his playoff bonus from the Detroit Tigers, USA Today Sports reports. The two-time MVP says it's not about the money – this time.
On Wednesday, Tigers pitcher Max Scherzer was walking around the locker room with the sheets that players must sign to receive their shares of the post-season playoff pool. He got an unexpected answer when he reached Cabrera.
"I'm not signing anything," Cabrera told Scherzer.
Teammate Victor Martinez discussed it with Cabrera, trying to get the slugger to sign. Cabrera had a simple answer.
"I just want the ring," Cabrera said.
Scherzer, who also tried to coax Cabrera into signing, shrugged and walked away saying, "OK, more for us."
Boston Red Sox players received a full share of $307,000 for winning the World Series last year. Cabrera has made more than $138 million in his playing career and still has roughly $262 million remaining on his contract. While Cabrera could still decide later to take the bonus, it's clear that money isn't his primary concern.
The Tigers won a World Series back in 2003 and Cabrera has been named American League MVP in each of the last two seasons. It's obvious, however, that winning another ring is his primary concern. Individual accolades and hefty sums on money are apparently secondary matters.
Cabrera hit .313 this season with 25 home runs and 109 RBIs. He finished second in the American league in RBIs.
