In an earlier blog discussion, the subject of "rental players" came up. I thought it would be an interesting blog topic on its own.

What the heck is up with this whole ordeal? How did "rental players" even come into being? WHY would you want to hire one, especially a high-dollar one, unless you were in serious contention at the ASB?

I look down on this concept. Here's a great example of why....
In 2004, we got Beltran. He excelled at his position, and fit in nicely with the team. However, the constant reminder by media (broadcasters, especially) that he was a "rental player" made it seem as if he really WASN'T an Astro.
Oh yeah, then he left for the Mets.

Where does loyalty lie these days? One has to wonder.