Former Mets relief pitcher, Scott Strickland, was just released by the Florida Marlins. Strickland, 34 in April, is now beginning the rest of his life...after baseball. Strickland, who hasn't pitched in the pros since 2005, was told he hadn't made the Marlin squad. He has decided it is time to start the second part of his life...as a REPO MAN.
The righty set-up man, who says this isn't permanent, started working for his father-in-law in Texas during the off season to help make ends meet. Being the parent of twins, Strickland, who hasn't garnered a Major League salary since 2005, had to do something.
Said Strickland, "You get a contract from a bank and it says these people know they're not paying their bills. It's not their first time. And you just walk up with the contract: 'Hey, we've got an order for repossession of your car. If you give me the keys, we'll let you get your stuff out. If not, we'll just take your car.' "
Emilio Estevez he's not, but Strickland justifies his new job by saying people just aren't paying their bills. It's not the cloak and dagger, in the dark of the night sort of enterprise that is conjured in one's mind. Strickland can still accept an assignment to the Marlins minor league affiliate, but chances are he won't.
The 5'10" pitcher had a bright future until Tommy John surgery to his right elbow derailed his career. The Mets picked up Strickland from the Expos (2002) in exchange for Bruce Chen and Dickey Gonzales. As expected, he injured his elbow with the Mets and was out of their organization by 2005 (2004 injured). He then went to the Astros, Pirates, Padres, Yankees, and Dodgers. With all teams other than the Astros, he was in the minors.
After being dealt a rough hand, Strickland is looking towards the rest of his life. Just remember while in Texas to make your car payments.
Other Sources: Big Leauge Stew and Ultimate Mets Database
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