The Logical Choice

If you work really hard in high school, then you go to Yale.

Ryan Lavarnway worked really hard in high school.

Ryan Lavarnway was drafted by the Red Sox.

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Above is an example of modus ponens. If you don't know what modus ponens is, ask Ryan Lavarnway, the Red Sox catching prospect. He learned about it a Yale, where he studied philosophy. As if being a philosophy major at Yale wasn't evidence enough of his genius, he took it to the next level when he chose to play baseball for the Red Sox instead of returning for his senior year.

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If a Yale diploma is better than Playing for the Red Sox, then you should return to Yale for your senior year.

A Yale diploma is not better than playing for the Red Sox.

You already proved your smart, now do something meaningful with your life (like play catcher for the Red Sox).

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Hey A-Rod, want to learn about modus tollens? Don't worry, Ryan will tell you all about it on your next trip to the plate. Next thing A-Rod (who didn't even go to college, let alone and Ivy League one) would hear? "Strike three!"

"Thank you, Ryan. I learned a lot during that at bat."

"You're welcome A-Rod. Now take a seat."

Don't be surprised when Robinson Cano show's up to hit with a wire-bound note book and a multi-color pen. "So Ryan, I was thinking about what you said in the third inning. But what does it mean to be virtuous?"

"What do you do after strike three?"

"Compliment Jon Lester on his cutter?"

"Why?"

"Because he just struck me out for the fourth time today?"

"Is that because of his cutter or because you were distracted by my banter?"

BOOM! Cano's mind coats the field and the Yankees scamble to replace their All-Star second baseman.

Ryan is still in the minors. He's working on his defense and pitch IQ. Coaches are quick to compliment his progress. The metaphysics of his mechanics will surely result in a potent dualistic catcher. Sorry Jarrod Saltalamacchia, time to pack for the trip to your next team.

(http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/articles/2011/01/20/lavarnway_next_in_receiving_line/)