Ryder Cup 2012: Why Leave Tiger Home?

Here's why I think Tiger Woods should be left at home:

For most players the Ryder Cup is what we call in economics a scarce good. Do you think Matt Kuchar will qualify again? Of course, he could but then again he could easily be a one and out.

Mid-level players like Kuchar (and on the European side, Jesper Parnevik) should enjoy the chance to capitalize on their opportunities when they come, especially for a pride event like the Ryder Cup.

I'd go with alleged young guns, can't miss guys like Ryan Moore and Rickie Fowler because they may only flash for a while and then do the long, slow fizzle. Can you say Chris Riley? How about that other Chris named DiMarco?

I'm glad they had their shot because it's one that is unlikely to come again.

I'd also go with comparative oldsters like Zach Johnson and Ricky Barnes. It's taken Barnes a long time to get his game to where it is. Who knows how long it will last?

Zach Johnson is rather Pavin-like. He could have just as easily vanished after his Masters win but instead he has hung in there and even jump started his game of late in a way that has eluded the likes of fellow Masters champion, Trevor Immelman.

What about Tiger? Easy. Love him or hate him, he'll be back for plenty more Ryder Cups (whether he cares about the event or not) before he's done. The Ryder Cup hasn't been and will never be a scarce good for him. He just can't go through enough difficult divorces for him to miss too many teams.

I went to UCLA with Corey Pavin. He was a really good guy then and I have no doubt that he still is today.

I hope Pavin has the guts to make the tough call and leaves Tiger home.