This is an interesting issue:

Team prepared to put Soriano on disqualified list

Soriano, a four-time All-Star second baseman, was listed as batting leadoff and playing left field on a lineup sheet posted in the Nationals' clubhouse before Monday night's 11-5 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

But when the Nationals took the field in the top of the first, Soriano wasn't out there. With play just about ready to start, left field was empty.

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The Nationals already have an All-Star second baseman in Jose Vidro, so they told Soriano they want him to move to the outfield, and he indicated he doesn't want to do that. But Monday provided his most concrete -- and visible -- objection.

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The Nationals acquired Soriano from Texas in a December trade that sent outfielders Brad Wilkerson and Terrmel Sledge and pitcher Armando Galarraga to the Rangers. After the deal, Washington made it clear that Vidro would keep his spot at second; Soriano made it clear that he wasn't happy.
The guy was traded, so he didn't get to pick his team. He is a 2nd baseman, and clearly a very valuable one (check his stats).

He has a consisten OPS over 800, has hit near or over 100 RBI 4 years in a row (only been pro 7 years), has averaged over 35 HR a year for 4 years, and a batting average close to 300. For an outfielder, those are very good numbers. For a 2nd baseman, those are INSANELY GOOD NUMBERS.

If I could hit like that and play 2nd base, I'd definitely want to play 2nd base. Those are hall of fame numbers for a 2nd baseman. For an outfielder they aren't.

So what do you think? In a situation like this, is it legit for a player to refuse to be moved to a position that could very well negatively impact the long term perception of his career? Or is he under contract, and that's that?

Personally, I think its legit. He signed a contract to play 2nd base (granted, with a different team). If he gets moved to outfield and goes a long time not playing 2nd base, it would get harder and harder to move back to 2nd base. He is a virtual guaranteed all star and 2nd base, but not in the outfield. I would not want to be put in a situation where all my skills were not put to use and as a result was less able to make All Star teams and potentially the Hall of Fame.