Legalize PADs
Last week I had the same conversation with two different people regarding Ryan Braun. Both have labeled him as a cheater based only on the fact that he failed a test, never mind the fact that we shouldn’t even know about the failed test at this point.
Both people said I am wearing "fan blinders" and defending him only because he is a Brewer. In fact, one said, "If this was a Cardinal, you wouldn't have this holier than thou stance, heck if it was a Cub, I'm sure you'd be up in arms, and for my own sanity, if this was a Red Sox, you'd be soooo far up my stuff, I wouldn't be able to breathe." The other claimed "if this were Albert Pujols, you would not be using this defense, but would be whining about how this steroidal advantage was the reason the Cardinals went to and won the World Series." Personally, if I am guilty of wearing fan blinders, these people would be just as guilty for labeling him a cheater without all the facts or due process.
One of the nice things about this blog is I have a public forum to tell you both that you are WRONG. I’m not saying you are wrong for believing that he is a cheater -- although I am a big fan of due process. You are wrong for believing you believe what I believe. And, I believe if you follow along you may end up believing your beliefs about my beliefs were dead wrong.
Amphetamines -- coined "greenies" for the color of the pill -- have been used in the game of baseball since the 1940s. These greenies speed up the heart rate and have been proven to fight fatigue, increase alertness and sharpen reaction time. A story from 2006 claimed that players believed in recent years that between 50-80% of their fellow players used amphetamines.
I couldn’t find any relevant stats regarding greenie use in the 1960s and 1970s, but it’s safe to assume they were more than available. All-time hits leader Pete Rose even admitted to using greenies. I’ll take him at his word that it was only in spring training and only for weight loss, but if I was a gambling man I know where my wager would be. This is a pretty good read regarding greenies in baseball.
Where is the outrage for those performance-enhancing drugs? Why are we not talking about the hall-of-famers who used greenies to play the game of baseball? The answer is quite simple, really. The answer, in my opinion, is also why some PEDs should be labeled as performance-allowing drugs (PADs) and be legal to use.
MLB outlawed amphetamine use in 2006 but based on the punishments, even they acknowledge the lack of impact on the game vs performance-enhancing drugs. The first failed test for a PED results in a 50-game suspension, while the first for amphetamines is a warning, with a second violation resulting in a 25-game suspension.
Why the disparity in punishments? Simply put, greenies do not have the same impact on performance as anabolic steroids or whatever other performance-enhancing drugs are available. One only need look at the power numbers for proof. Between 1965 and 1990, only one player -- George Foster in 1977 -- topped 50 home runs in a season. Between 1995 and 2002, there were 17 50-homer seasons, with a few 60- and 70-homer seasons to boot. Only the players that hit those home runs know what they put into their bodies and there are admittedly other factors that could have gone into those numbers (such as a change in the ball, shorter fences, pitching was watered down, weight training was more prevalent and nutritional supplements were better), but let’s be real, that power EXPLOSION doesn’t happen without an enhancer. It was obvious at the time, but in retrospect there is no point in denying the use was rampant.
I’m obviously not a chemist, and one only needs to see the increase in my belt size since the future Mrs. joined the team to know I’m not a personal trainer, but in my opinion there should be a difference between PEDs and PADs. If all a PAD does is allow the player to heal quicker and get them back on the field, then I see no problem with it. I would never, have never, advocated for a minor to use any mind-altering substance, but if an adult wants to pop a pill to wake up for a day game after an extra-inning night game, who are we to judge? Is it sooooo much better if they get the same result by drinking a couple of those new energy drinks?
I used the two Braun convos from last week to rant about this difference, but it's also part of the reason why both the people I spoke to are wrong. They both believe I’d be all against it if it was one of their guys, and that’s simply not the case. If this were Pujols or David Ortiz and the info was leaked -- I won’t lie -- I’m guessing my initial reaction would be to think of them as cheaters, but I’m an adult and I can isolate my initial reaction from anything that comes out of my mouth (and fingers), especially when info to the contrary is presented.
I don’t want Albert Pujols’ legacy tarnished any more than I want Mr. Braun's. I am a fan of the Brewers, but that means nothing if I’m not a fan of the game first. Baseball has had enough black eyes and I don’t want to see another, even if it wears Cubbie blue or Cardinal red. I’m well aware that fans of opposing teams may call horse hockey, but if this was happening to Albert, I’m confident I would not label him a cheater without all of the facts. I like Albert and respect him as a player, plus that’s just not who I am.
According to a few tweets, it may take a couple weeks to learn the outcome of Braun's hearing. If he indeed knowingly ingested a PED I may write a blog admonishing the behavior, but I really don’t think I need to convince people that I’m anti-cheating. The truth is, if he cheated I will be disappointed but I will want to forget about it as soon as possible and move on with life. I hope that he comes back, puts up better numbers and passes twice as many tests to prove the haters just want to hate.
Radio host Dan Patrick has cited an MLB source that says Braun may be exonerrated, and not for personal reasons. Obviously I hope this is true. If this holds true there is a better than good chance that I will write another blog asking for apologies from those same haters that labeled him a cheater based on leaked information. I asked both of those people last week if they would retract their statements if Braun is exonerated, and both said no. I’m not sure how someone can claim to write four books yet not acknowledge their mistakes, but I guess it’s ultimately of no importance if he chooses to remain uninformed. The good news is that Peace & Glove may have permanently shed its main source of negativity!
Is this blog all over the place? :) Am I crazy for thinking performance-allowing drugs should be legal in sports? Do you think I’m wearing fan blinders when it comes to Mr. Braun? Are you one of those who believe he's guilty, regardless of the outcome?
UPDATE: Prince to the Tigers for 9yr/214million!!
Tim Thompson is a carsalesman, farmer, and huge fan of the Milwaukee Brewers. He lives in Milton area with his wife and two kids. Tim is a community blogger and is not a part of The Gazette staff. His opinion is not necessarily that of the The Gazette staff or management.
Jan 26, 2012 at 5:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
Yer a moron. Seriously. Read the blog, I am OBVIOUSLY trying to differentiate between PED's and PAD's, I mean afterall, IT'S IN THE TITLE. Blast me for wanting PAD's legal...thats what I was expecting, but you only make yourself look less intelligent than you already are with posts like that. As for writing a blog, it was simple, I emailed the editor and asked. You could do it too but then youd have to show your face, and my guess is that's one of the reasons you are as negative as you are.
Thankx for reading and posting again though mr nothing. I appreciate it.
Jan 26, 2012 at 2:16 p.m.
Suggest removal
The very fact that you decide to call PEDs 'performance-allowing drugs' shows a serious lack of critical thought and/or a wretched grasp of the english-language.
I'd wonder how on Earth you got a gig writing a blog for a newspaper, but South Central Wisconsin does suffer from a serious brain drain. Anyone with a clue leaves as soon as they are able.
As for a "witch-hunt"...yes, drug cheaters should be hunted with extreme prejudice and drummed out of the game when they are found. Period.
Jan 25, 2012 at 9:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
Well, a source leaked the failed test info. A source also stated the levels were insanely high. I think when something is attributed to a 'source' it's a touch more relevant than a simple rumor but I understand your logic, and appreciate you holding judgement. As FOTH stated, I'd much rather have you on my jury than any of the haters who have already convicted him:)
http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-12-...
Jan 25, 2012 at 8:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
With all due respect "His failed test showed testosterone levels TWO TIMES that of any other test before." is just as part of the same rumor mill as everything else. The only fact we know as absolute is that Ryan Braun failed a drug test. We know this because he, himself acknowledged that fact. I reserve my judgment until; MLB states why he failed the test, if guilty, or R.B. states his case if exonerated.
Jan 25, 2012 at 7:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
Ha. Beautiful no_fool_on_the_hill!!
Jan 25, 2012 at 6:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
Tim: Yes, the fact that the public is not yet entitled to know should be a simple enough concept for anyone to grasp. I will never understand the propensity of some to prejudge others. The next time that comes up, ask: "If you are ever on trial for your life, would you rather have a jury of people like me or people like you?"
Jan 24, 2012 at 9:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
Your judgements are something else. I won't say what else cuz I'd hate to be deleted from my own blog. If his suspension is over turned then this never happened and your judgement become even more of a steaming pile of you know what...
Jan 24, 2012 at 8:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
Tim, you are something else. No one has tested at a higher level than Braun...ever. Tesosterone leaves your system so fast; he knew the first test was positive and stayed clean for the second test. The system in place is nearly air tight in terms of verifying a sample is positive. This guy is a cheat...so is Lance Armstrong...and so many others in sports today.
Jan 24, 2012 at 6:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
:)
Jan 24, 2012 at 5:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
*Is this blog all over the place? :) Am I crazy for thinking performance-allowing drugs should be legal in sports? Do you think I’m wearing fan blinders when it comes to Mr. Braun? Are you one of those who believe he's guilty, regardless of the outcome? *
Yes, I wouldn’t have it any other way though.
No, some currently are legal.
No, you A) shouldn’t even have knowledge of a positive result and B) are using common sense by not jumping on the “witch hunt” bandwagon.
No, but I won’t be surprised if he is suspended for 50 games. You are simply being pessimistic and moronic if you believe him guilty regardless of the outcome.
Jan 24, 2012 at 3:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
Hvacengi: AWESOME POST
No: I appreciate you reading and passing on the feedback, but if you detest baseball so much why are you reading a baseball blog??
Jan 24, 2012 at 3:41 p.m.
Suggest removal
Prince is a TIGER!!!!
Jan 24, 2012 at 3:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
Yeah, Tim, if you told us you popped two greenies before typing this blog, I am not sure if it would support your argument or contradict it.
Jan 24, 2012 at 2:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
*Is this blog all over the place? :) Am I crazy for thinking performance-allowing drugs should be legal in sports? Do you think I’m wearing fan blinders when it comes to Mr. Braun? Are you one of those who believe he's guilty, regardless of the outcome? *
Yes.
Yes. Crazy and moronic.
Yes.
Yes. He's one of these "rare" guys who can golf a pitch off the ground in the opposite batter's box over the fence to the opposite field just like Mike Piazza, another sure cheater who never was caught.
Baseball was once my favorite sport, now it's been ruined forever by cheating scumbags, greedy owners and an incompetent stooge Commissioning over the whole disaster. What a total disgrace.
Jan 24, 2012 at 2:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
I agree completely with you. I find it interesting to see where exactly people draw the line for "Performance Enhancement." If the sport wanted to be truly pure, they wouldn't allow contacts/glasses. Players would be prohibited from training with any objects they did not find in the wild. And of course, Gatorade would be banned.
Obviously I don't support cheating. I think that the rules are in place to protect both the health of the players and competitive balance, which in turn furthers the fans' enjoyment of the game. It is no help to anyone if players start having heart attacks on the diamond, or if they can only play for a few years because of side effects. And I don't really think any one wants to watch The Incredible Hulk walk up to the plate for every at bat, not matter how exciting home runs are.
I get very frustrated with all of the sanctimony about the the purity of the game. Baseball has a long tradition of trying to get an advantage (both real and not so real) whatever way you can: Spit balls, corked bats, sign stealing, chicken bone Voodoo, not washing a ball cap, etc.
Honestly, I might not change my opinion of Braun even if he is found guilty. It depends on the explanation he gives. Something can be against the rules without having reason to question a player's character and integrity. Alex Rodriguez is good example. My first reaction to the announcement of Rodriguez's PED use was: "Him? Really?" And to this day, I feel like it is too bad that his truly amazing career will be marred by that blemish. I hate the he has been such a good player for a team that I hate, I hate that he makes an insane amount of money, and I may even be willing to heckle him (probably not), but I don't have any urge to wage a holy war about him being a cheater.
If Braun is exonerated, I hope that the negativity about him is indeed retracted, but I am sure that many people will just say that he got away with it. Maybe he will have. If he can't provide a reasonable explanation my opinion of him will probably change regardless of being exonerated. Considering character works both ways after all.
As a fan of the Brewers, as a fan of baseball, and as a fan of sports, I truly hope that Braun is innocent. He may have some personality quirks, and he may take forever between each pitch, but he is good for baseball.
Jan 24, 2012 at 2:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
Lar80: False positives are not unheard of in any testing environment. The fact that NO ONE should know ANYTHING about this right now is key. If the suspension is upheld, then I he would be a cheater, and it's not that I want to forget about it ever happening, there is just no point in re-hashing it. I understand why fans of other teams will, but as a Crew fan I will just want to move on with baseball. He's taken AND PASSED the same test since 2005. He also took a follow up after the failed one and it was clean. His failed test showed testosterone levels TWO TIMES that of any other test before. Is that clear cut to you??
I find it funny, how on some topics some individuals can be as open to a conversation as anyone, and on other topics those same people see life as black and white. He failed a test so he's a cheater. I failed a sobriety test one time and was later exonerated by a jury of my peers. If the suspension is overturned then this NEVER happened. The failed test NEVER happened. MLB won't even make an announcement if it's overturned, because NO ONE should know about this process at this point.
Jan 24, 2012 at 1:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
" if he cheated I will be disappointed but I will want to forget about it as soon as possible and move on with life. I hope that he comes back, puts up better numbers and passes twice as many tests to prove the haters just want to hate."
.
The old ostrich plan... If it's bad, let's just not think about it.
.
*IF* he cheated, it's a very big deal. He tested positive.. That's already a big deal. He can have a hearing and if somehow he's innocent,(the hot pee belonged to the bat boy) than he will be vidicated... If guilty,,, consequences..
.
If he comes back and puts up better numbers... He will be known as a cheater that changed his ways and came out the better for it.. But that kind of story is more rare than the 70 homer season.
.
Steroids have a profound effect on ability.. When people go off after a long period of enhansement, the performance also decreases dramatically... Can you think of a true story with a different ending?
Jan 24, 2012 at 1:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
Ha. Nice pic!!I sorta wrote two blogs into one here, hope you enjoyed anyways. Or were you just here to post the pic??;)
Jan 24, 2012 at 1:24 p.m.
Suggest removal
Much like the time I was fooled when shopping in Springfield (http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l5g8cd...), the title of this blog is total false advertising! ;)
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.