Adam LaRoche is a doting father to his 14-year-old son, Drake. So when his employer, the Chicago White Sox, told him to stop bringing his son to work every day, he offered to quit his job instead.
The popular first baseman is walking away from a $13 million dollar Major League Baseball contract because he believes family comes first.
Child experts say the bond between a father and his son plays a crucial role in the healthy development of a boy’s self awareness and identity.
People.com — LaRoche, 36, officially announced his retirement on Tuesday, writing on Twitter: “Thank u Lord for the game of baseball and for giving me way more than I ever deserved! #FamilyFirst”
White Sox Executive Vice President Ken Williams insisted to Fox Sports he had only asked LaRoche to “dial it back” when it came to bringing his son Drake to practice and into the clubhouse.
The teen traveled with LaRoche on road games for several years and even had his own locker in the White Sox clubhouse next to his father’s locker.
Drake would often attend batting practice and meet with players, according to the Chicago Tribune. The issue became hot-button for the team, prompting a two-hour meeting with leadership earlier in the week.
Would you quit your job if your employer told you to limit the time you spend with your children?
