With most professions, reaching the 20-year mark is almost always a joyous occasion -- one considered an achievement worthy of special acclaim.
Maybe a lapel pin denoting service time or a watch to mark the occasion, even if it comes from the costume jewelry case. Perhaps even a retirement party to celebrate a new beginning.
In case you hadn't noticed, baseball is not one of those professions.
Instead of thanks for a job well done, the recipient all too often gets the proverbial pink slip -- and the not so subtle advice about how to avoid the door hitting the backside on the way out. And the process, which usually comes this time of year, not far removed from the holidays, can be vicious. It's almost like somebody dials up 1-800-GOT-JUNK and starts pointing.
