you can't just assume players will come to you just because their parents played at MSU. You still have to recruit and let them know that they are wanted. The players won't/can't assume that, especially if another school says that they do want them. Also, how do you explain Palmeiro's son wanting to come, but has no offers despite being a pretty good prospect? How do you explain Logan Power at UM of all places? Ty Grisham should have at least been offered a walk-on spot. There's nothing wrong with keeping alumni happy.
Just another example of dropping the ball in recruiting. And the ironic thing is that Raffo and co. are counting on their connections to keep them around, although clearly undeserved.