Re: Steroids-Gambling versus Spitballs -Vaseline Etc


"Aldo Cella" <chicoman3@xxxxxxxxx> wrote in message news:10107-456EF203-117@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Looking at all these comments about the Steroid scandals , betting on
baseball, using a spitball or vaseline on the cap makes me think about
whats right and wrong.
Im an oldtimer and I may be wrong but i think spitballs, files,
vaseline. have been a part of the game since its existance and i have
never had any problem with it.
Corked bats might be going a little too far but i think the rest is
a form of gamesmanship and puts color into the game.
Steroids and betting by managers or players creates a dangerous
atmosphere which is helping kill the game.


I think that's a pretty good view. It's a question of degree and punishment. Fighting and other infractions in hockey are against the rules. The punishment is meted out on the spot through penalties. There are penalties in baseball. For fighting...you're ejected, then possibly fined. A pitcher can be ejected for doctoring the ball. I don't believe the sanction for throwing a spitball or corking a bat, is banishment from baseball.

The illegal use of steroids to enhance one's performance or gambling (illegal as well BTW) certainly should be. Steroid use is obviously a new development. Gambling isn't. The historical significance should be understood by any fan...as well as the potential for serious harm to the game. Comparing that to Gaylord Perry throwing a spitball or puffball or whatever, is truly ridiculous.

.