The Oakland Athletics recently presented Miguel Cabrera, the soon-to-be Hall of Famer, with an $80 bottle of wine as a retirement gift. However, the gift has sparked a wave of criticism and mockery from fans across social media platforms, who believe that the team could have done more to honor the iconic player.
Key Takeaway
The Oakland A’s have faced backlash for presenting Miguel Cabrera with an $80 bottle of wine as a retirement gift. Fans across social media believe that the team could have demonstrated a greater appreciation for the Hall of Famer’s remarkable career with a more substantial and personalized gift.
A Question of Value
While the gesture was intended to be heartfelt, many fans have deemed it “cheap” considering the team’s estimated worth of over $1 billion. They argue that the organization should have gone above and beyond, given Cabrera’s remarkable career and his contributions to the game.
Comparisons have been drawn with the gifts given by other teams during Cabrera’s final season. The New York Yankees, for instance, presented him with a custom subway sign and a $10,000 check for his foundation, which aims to support young athletes and empower communities through sports and education. The Los Angeles Dodgers bestowed upon him his very own Hollywood star, while the Angels gifted him a personalized surfboard, reflecting Cabrera’s love for surfing.
Additional mentions include the Guardians, who gave Cabrera a custom guitar, the Texas Rangers who offered a custom saddle, and the Miami Marlins, who provided cigars, a custom cigar box, and his favorite rum.
It’s the Thought That Counts?
Though some argue that it’s the thought that counts, the disparity in the gifts has fueled the perception that the Oakland A’s fell short in their farewell offering to Miguel Cabrera. While the signed wine bottle holds sentimental value, it pales in comparison to the grander gestures exhibited by other teams.
