Those are really slave wages! How could anyone possibly survive on a mere $72 million over 6 years, or $12 million per year. There are a lot of out of work Americans that would gladly work for lots less — and make a go of it. He’s a spoiled brat.
It is very hard for the average guy to understand, but it is really not the money itself that is the issue. The dollar amounts are what these extremely competitive athletes use as their scoreboard when competing with each other. They realize they have enough money to live several lifetimes, but if another player on their team or the league is making more, they also want more. They would do anything to beat you for 5 dollars in a game of darts. It is how they are hard wired. That is why they made it to the major league level. In the world of baseball, those who want it all and are willing to do anything to get it are the ones who end up playing for the Yankees, Red Sox, or Tigers. They are egomaniacs, which for their profession is a plus. Those who did not have this incredible drive to compete and win end up playing for Joe’s Hardware in a men’s softball league. To top athletes every aspect of life is a competition.