The Hometown Boy, The Cinderella Story

Hello. Congrats to Scott Verplank of Dallas for winning the Byron Nelson yesterday. Verplank considers this tourney his fifth major.
This season is shaping up to be similar to 2006, when many of the winners were either first-timers or vets seeking to remain in the show. Verplank fits in to the latter category, as this was his first win since the 2001 Canadian Open. While he was on last year's Ryder Cup team, Verplank's best days seemed to be behind him prior to this past week's performance.
The same questions now flow through my mind. Why was this field so weak? Why aren't other non-winners trying to cash in? Where have all the cowboys gone?
I can't understand why some events like this one are ignored by the big guns. If I'm looking for a win, I've got this tourney and the Canadian Open marked on my calendar. The fields are thin, thereby increasing the odds. And now that a winner gets into the Masters, why not play in it?
For many of the media darlings, they don't need to win anymore because they make so much money. Why bother practicing or playing when the money keeps rolling in? Do exhibitions for guaranteed money instead. It's easier.
Congrats again Scott!

Regards,
Steve