Thursday, January 11, 2007

Hall of Juiced Fame

I'm too obsessed with baseball to not say anything about Mark McGwire and his chances of being elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. I know alot has been written already, but I'd like to say a bit about my view as a fan.

I had been a fan of Mac since his days in Oakland. He in fact was the reason why I cheered for Oakland (Only other team I cheered for other than my beoved Braves). It was obvious during Mac tear through Maris' record that he had some "supplemental" help in building his muscle mass. When suspicions arose, I still didn't care because I viewed Mac as an all round nice guy on and off the field. My opinion would change however.

It is hard for anyone to not remember the image of Mac refusing to answer any questions from the congressional hearing on steriod use in baseball. His procamation to not dwell on the past, but rather be positive about the future was deplorable. It was a travesty in honor, integrity, and poor example to sport youth everywhere.

Choice is never void of consequense. Good or bad every choice has its consequenses to which we are held accountable to. Mac made the choice to bulk up by more than just lifting weights. So did Jason Giambi and Barry Bonds. However unlike Mac, Jason Giambi showed remorse and contritely sought the forgiveness of his fans. He did not stop there, he also worked his butt off to ensure that his offensive performance would continue to be beneficial to his team. The same could not be said of McGwire.

Giambi would by season's end find himself once again embraced by his fans. McGwire COULD have too but he instead chose the path of a coward, shyed from accountability, and allowed his pride to forever lock the doors of the Hall of Fame.