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Burden of hype weighs heavy

By Jerry Crasnick
ESPN Insider

Friday, January 28, 2005

It all comes so easily for a few guys. Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey Jr. arrived in the majors with a buzz and a bundle of potential and began to convert when they were still teenagers. A-Rod signed a $252 million contract at age 25. Griffey made his 10th All-Star team at age 29. There was barely a speed bump along the way. For most elite prospects, success is a more complex proposition, filled with setbacks, self doubt and the obligatory growth pains. Aspiring big leaguers routinely get worn ...

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