Major headlines broke out today, supposedly based on Selena Roberts (SI reporter) new book claiming that Alex Rodriguez may have been using steroids as early as High school. This comes a few months after A-Rod came out in a much publicized interview with Peter Gammons, and sensationally confessed that 'he'd only used steroids from 2001-2003' and did not use it either prior to or after that time period.
Like most people, I don't believe A-rod's 01-03 story. There's definitely more to it and with this new report, it would seem to tarnish (if not already tarnished rep) A-rod's reputation as one of baseball's premier hitters of this generation. But the book containing the official story comes out on Monday and I guess I'll keep an eye out for any fall-outs.
Post Script : Here's the actual interview with ESPN -
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3894847
And here's a play-by-play commentary on the entire interview - http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Play-by-play-of-the-A-Rod-interview-plus-pics-a?urn=mlb,140217
But on a personal level, A-rod has already fallen several notches down in my book (even though he is still a great player). But I always held him high regard, as a hitter, and as a person, despite the fact him having performed so poorly in so many playoff games which ultimately killed the Yankees playoff runs the past few years. His playoff record with the Yankees speak for themselves. From now on I wont be rooting for A-rod to perform miracles. He is after all very mortal.
At the same time I can't wrap my arms around this whole usage of Steroid, PED and HGH business. Is it good or bad?
On the one side, I argue, that it gives unfair advantage to people who do use steroids. And its also unfair cos a normal person, who has no inclination to do steroids, is forced to do so, or else he won't be competitive enough and most likely lose his livelihood. Why should that player be forced to be put in such a difficult position? But in an environment where everybody is taking it, and if you don't, you'll only be perceived as not trying hard enough to better yourself. If you ain't cheating, you're not trying
On the other side, I argue that, if by merely injecting myself with a magic medication, I could perform my daily job twice as better and more efficiently and at the same time have enough energy after coming home to play 2-3 hours of badminton, cook and blog - would I take it?
I guess I would, if I'm aware of all the side-effects and as long as I'm taking responsibility for my actions.
Also let me ask you this - Tiger Woods underwent a Lasik eye procedure. This helps keep his 20-20 vision intact. How is that different from taking steroids?
Men of different ages take Viagra to enhance their sexual ability. How can you justify their actions? Are they guilty of cheating?
Such differing standards.
MLB and other sports bodies have banned steroids cos they want to watch the best athletes in peak but most natural physical condition perform and compete against one other. A noble intention no doubt. But it serves no real practical purpose.
Baseball attendance shot up beginning 1998, after languishing for several years prior; the year when Mark Mcgwire and Sammy Sosa battled each other in an effort to become the home-run king. MLB and Bud Selig cashed in on the national craze. It was later revealed that both McGwire and Sosa were juiced up. But as far I can see nobody lost. People got their moneys worth. MLB made money.
Its just the feeling of breaking some sort of vague moral code that seems to have many columnists and writers up in arms. All I fear blown up way outta proportion.
In other news, looks like Shah Rukh Khan, owner of the Kolkatta Knight Riders (KKR) is ready to throw in the towel and sell his stake in the troubled franchise. Well it was only a matter of time I suppose. Much has been made and discussed as to how the coaching and team management have been emptying the coffers of the poor lil badshah of Bollywood.
Will keep an eye out for further developments on this story.
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