Walking the Line: Business vs. Loyalty

Amongst even the purest of sports fans there is an understanding that business always topples loyalty and personal history. Fans, while they may not agree with some decisions, tend to understand that sports organizations are a money making business above anything else. If such is the case, then why do so many athletes continue to be surprised when they're name is tossed around like feelings don't matter?

For this exercise let's take a look at some of the week's major deals, from multiple sports, and decide between business and loyalty:

1) T.J. Houshmandzadeh signs with the Seattle Seahawks. Definitely business. As if ditching your only pro QB, Carson Palmer, wasn't enough, T.J. took $40 million, a new head coach, and the league's second most revered bald man, Matt Hasselback.

2) Drew Gooden bought out by the Sacramento Kings. Business. The Kings wanted to avoid getting too close to a man who named his hair style after Rasheed Wallace. Ladies and Gentlemen, "The Sheed."

3) Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel. Both business and loyalty. The New England Patriots get rid of two big contracts for the 34th overall pick in the draft. Contracts = Business. 34th Pick = A thank you from the Pats to former director of player personnel, Scott Pioli.

4) Manny Ramirez not being signed yet. Both. The Los Angeles Dodgers think Manny isn't worth what Manny thinks he's worth. In terms of pure winning, I'll side with Manny, but clearly Manny still doesn't care about the people paying him and, even more clear, the Dodgers don't care about Manny. Note: A stalemate occurs when neither side wants to be loyal.

5) Jay Cutler is still in Denver. Business. Remember when you collapsed at the end of last year to division rival Phillip Riv - I mean San Diego? Of course the Broncos can upgrade from Jay, that's why they tried. Didn't work, so until next time, enjoy the snow, cry baby.

6) Stephan Marbury let go by the Knicks, signed by the Celtics. Business. Taking so long to get Steph out of New York is a good demonstration of how bad the Knicks' front office is. On the flip, the Celtics are using business to their advantage. Starbury is officially playing for a contract next year, now that Steve & Barry's has gone bankrupt.