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The problem with Lotto of course is that someone wins, and even though that someone does, the odds are still so far against you that it doesn't matter how many times you play. But the fact that "somebody wins" encourages people to play more.
The M's, in acquiring "aggressive hitters" over the years, hoping to find the next Vlad or Jose Bautista aren't giving enough looks to future Nick Swishers - who are probably a little easier to find.
At some point, when you've spent your paycheck trying to match 6 numbers, you've lost the chance to buy groceries...