Because baseball is a sport rich with tradition that dates back to the 1800s in the U.S., its individual records are highly valued in the sports world, perhaps more than in any other game. So when somebody suddenly starts to approach arguably the most beloved indivdual record in baseball, the all-time home run record, the person will naturally come under intense scrutiny by the media. Of course, Barry Bonds is no ordinary figure in baseball. He has been accused of cheating by way of illegal substances to enhance performance, and he has been a polarizing figure during his lenghty career. However, he has NEVER been caught cheating. He is innocent until proven guilty, but because of overwhelming speculation, he has been seen in a negative light during his entire run to the top of the home run list. Jason Giambi, on the other hand, has openly admitted to taking steroids, but continues to play for the Yankees and is not generally hated by the baseball world
like Bonds is. The bottom line remains that Bonds is looked down upon because of not what he has accomplished in his career, but how he accomplished it and because of its significance in baseball history. Giambi gets off the hook in the public eye because he's not breaking records, but Bonds is scrutinized for "supposedly" breaking the most important record in the game. Even if he did cheat, which is very possible, the media should let up a bit until the truth comes out. If it ever does.
like Bonds is. The bottom line remains that Bonds is looked down upon because of not what he has accomplished in his career, but how he accomplished it and because of its significance in baseball history. Giambi gets off the hook in the public eye because he's not breaking records, but Bonds is scrutinized for "supposedly" breaking the most important record in the game. Even if he did cheat, which is very possible, the media should let up a bit until the truth comes out. If it ever does.
3 comments:
While I apreciate your defense of innocent until proven guilty, I think it's important to note that he HAS admitted to using steroids. Check out this site: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1937594. It says Bonds testified in front of a grand jury stating that he had used "the cream" and "the clear", but didn't know what they were. I have trouble believing his statement, but I guess that is where innocent until proven guilty comes into play.
I agree with you about the fact that Barry Bonds is treated unfairly by the media about the substance abuse speculations. I liked your point about Jason Giambi too. Instead of saying he doesn't receive criticism because he's a likeable Yankee, you stated it's because he is not breaking records, which I think is more valid.
In the court of public opinion, this works the opposite way. Bonds is guilty until proven innocent. Though it may be wrong, that's how it works. And it isn't just overwhelming speculation. There's tons of evidence that Bonds has been involved with Victor Conte and BALCO's steroid ring, and like Cohen said, why wouldn't he sue if that evidence was made up.
Post a Comment