Meaning: This quote by Don Drysdale, a former professional baseball player, reflects a sentiment shared by many athletes and individuals who have experienced the financial implications of earning large sums of money, particularly in the realm of professional sports. The quote alludes to the diminishing value of World Series checks in modern times, as they are perceived to have become burdened with tax implications that offset their significance as a form of financial reward.

Don Drysdale, a Hall of Fame pitcher who played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, made this statement during an era when professional athletes were compensated differently than they are today. In the past, World Series checks held a tangible and meaningful value for players. They symbolized not only the achievement of reaching the pinnacle of their sport but also provided a substantial financial reward that could significantly impact their lives.

In the context of professional sports, particularly Major League Baseball (MLB), World Series checks historically represented a significant financial windfall for players. Winning the World Series meant that players received a bonus check, which was often a substantial sum of money. This financial reward was not only a form of recognition for their hard work and dedication throughout the season but also served as a tangible benefit for their efforts.

However, as the quote suggests, the significance of these checks has been eroded over time due to the impact of taxes. Athletes, including those who win the World Series, are subject to high tax rates on their earnings, including their bonuses and prize money. This means that a substantial portion of their World Series checks may be claimed by the government in the form of taxes, significantly reducing the net amount received by the players.

The evolution of tax laws and regulations, particularly in relation to high-earning individuals such as professional athletes, has led to a situation where the financial impact of winning major sporting events has been diminished. The tax implications associated with these earnings have resulted in a perception that the once-significant World Series checks now serve as a means to "screw" athletes' taxes, as Drysdale aptly put it.

It is important to note that the sentiment expressed in this quote extends beyond the realm of professional sports. Many individuals, regardless of their profession, have experienced the impact of taxes on their earnings and bonuses. The quote encapsulates a broader frustration with the diminishing value of financial rewards in the face of tax obligations, highlighting a broader societal issue surrounding taxation and its impact on earnings and rewards.

In conclusion, Don Drysdale's quote encapsulates a sentiment shared by many individuals, particularly those in the world of professional sports, regarding the diminishing value of financial rewards in the face of tax implications. It serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between earnings, taxation, and the perceived value of financial rewards, shedding light on the broader impact of tax laws and regulations on individuals' earnings and bonuses.