Has there ever been a profession where the Peter Principle is more prevalent than baseball? Politics, maybe? Professional football coaches? The Royals have seen their share. The Royals have only had seven general managers, and while it’s too early to grade J.J. Picollo, the track record of his three predecessors leaves little to the imagination. The most recent GM, who we all know and love, has recorded three winning seasons in 16 full years on the job. What was his reward for that? They promoted him, of course!! I rest my case.
Since baseball is firmly entrenched with hiring what is called “baseball lifers”, the principle is alive and well.