Why NOT be a Mage in classic?

Because only one mage at most will be wanted in battleground premades, unless theres a shortage of players. Healers dispelling things constantly really hurts a mage moreso than every other caster, who needs those snares to survive.

GL fighting all the other mages for that one spot if you’re not very skilled. Most of the other classes (except rogues. RIP rogues) become far more valuable to bring in that setting.