John, Steroids and Congress' efforts

The article is focused on the players that were named in the Mitchell Report months ago. The Mitchell Report was a condemning list of accusations for professional baseball players of steroid use for a competitive edge in the sport. This can improve one’s ability to recover and therefore get stronger than their body would normally allow. Such players listed in the Mitchell Report were Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte. This article says that Congress is not lightening up on the pressure on these popular baseball stars.

In the article a point is brought up that baseball players are “heroes” and should have to deal with the highest standard of moral values. This is to set a good example for the people (mainly younger generation) of integrity. Baseball, while not the most popular sport in the nation, is “America’s Pastime” and should represent America in the best way possible. The stars of the game such as Pettitte and Clemens are constantly in the spotlight and should, more than anyone be examples of the best all around people. This makes the issue of performance enhancing drugs so significant.

As for the future, Pettitte was mentioned to have testified and admitted to using steroids. It was the lesser of two evils, in my opinion. The other choice was to not say anything and be bombarded by a media barrage until confession. Clemens appears to have evidence piling up against him. To avoid an absolutely crushing blow to his reputation and his career, I think he should confess. If not he may go down a road of baseball infamy, similar to Barry Bonds’ current state.

Dwyre, B. (2008, February 5). Congress ensures there’s no lull; Stakes are incredibly high for heroes. Los Angeles Times. p. D1, D8.