When you think of famous athletes you would expect them to retire in a life of luxury, never lifting a finger again. But that was not the case for Jim Palmer. Palmer retired from baseball in 1984, but he continued to excel in the sports industry as a sportscaster and even wrote a book about pitching. Many factors helped share Palmer’s career after the Orioles, such as the age of his retirement, his stepfather’s career and the advancements in the technology industry.

Jim’s career in broadcasting began when he was still an active player for the Orioles in 1981. He provided commentary to many networks, such as ABC, ESPN, HTS and local Baltimore stations. His broadcasting career was successful from his work with ABC Sports and for having a bright, humorous personality. Palmer’s stepfather, Max Palmer, was an actor and he appeared on many different television shows. His stepfather’s career may be one reason he decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Jim was born in 1945, when television was still relatively new and the technology and media industry was expanding. As Jim Palmer grew up he saw baseball being televised, which was something new to the world. When Palmer played for the Orioles the games were televised. The advancements in technology and media that Palmer witnessed may have influenced and encouraged him more to get involved in broadcasting. He was young when he retired from the Orioles, giving him many years for another career. Palmer’s broadcasting career went on for years in different networks, including being an announcer for the Orioles.

The 1980s sparked an era or materialism. I relate materialism not only to shopping, but also to leisure and relaxation, including activities such as watching television. The Cold War was still ongoing, but the anxiety in America had decreased immensely by the time of Palmer’s retirement. President Reagan sparked the trend of spending money. It was in the 1980s that cable television became the social norm for most households. There was an economic downturn in the 1980s and some thought it was inappropriate to spend money, but that didn’t stop the trend. Palmer had had a successful life and career in baseball, but sought out the opportunity in the 1980s to continue his success in another, popular field.

Besides broadcasting, Jim Palmer also did many other things. He wrote the a few books about baseball, fitness and a memoir. He also frequently appeared in documentaries, films and interviews. Palmer was a spokesperson for Jockey and The Money Store, appearing in many advertisements. The world since the 80s has depended a lot more on television for adverting. But Jim Palmer did it all from appearing on billboards, in newspapers, and of course on TV. Today you can even hire his as a motivational speaker for an event for about $25,000. The popularity of a having a fit and healthy lifestyle began in the 1980s with the baby boom generation. Palmer followed this trend by writing a fitness book and being an iconic and healthy retired athlete.

Palmer is a very respected, not just because he is famous, but also because he is a kind person. News reporters describe Jim as a perfect gentleman, characterized by perseverance and integrity. Jim gives back to the community by supporting and donating to a variety of charities. He is a national sports chairman for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where he appears at benefits, visits children in the hospital and donates to the foundation. Palmer hosted six celebrity golf tournaments benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He is works most closely to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, but also works with D.A.R.E., Autism, Alzheimer’s, and arthritis awareness organizations. Today as a country, the United States has high expectations for celebrities. We expect them to donate to charities and if they don’t we look down on them, which may be one reason why Palmer is so involved. Regardless of expectations, he is a well-respected man in the community due to his efforts to give back.

Jim Palmer did much more with his life than just baseball. He had a career in broadcasting, where he was still able to enjoy the game. Jim also wrote books, was a spokesperson for multiple brands and was constantly appearing on television. He was a respected and genuine person who gave back to the community. Jim Palmer’s legacy continues not only through baseball, but also in the American community.