Point Taken:
"World Superbike seems like a more logical move"
That's a real good point. However, HRC needs someone to compete with Rossi, and they need him fast! From the way I see things, Mladin's contribution to HRC could be two fold. 1st: He would be a viable competitor against Rossi. 2nd: He might serve as a good mentor for Nicky Hayden. I have no doubt that Nicky Harden has enough talent to be a MotoGP champion. On the other hand, he may be too-nice-of-a guy. He might also be having some difficulty considering, his responsibilities to HRC keeping his head straight. And, if there was ever a perfect roll-model for keeping-your-head-straight, its Mladin!
Another thing to keep in mind: Rossi vs. Mladin would be an awe-inspiring rivalry. The contrasts between Rossi and Mladin are classic: Rossi has unparalleled talent and remarkable drive, Mladin has unparalleled drive and remarkable talent. It would be, like: Ali vs. Frazier An irresistible force vs. an immovable object or Ahab vs. Moby ****! Hell, its almost "My dad, can beat-up your dad."