Point/Counterpoint with The Masked Blogger

The Masked Blogger Point: Sympathy For A-Rod

In 1968, the Rolling Stones recorded Sympathy For the Devil. The Devil has fame, fortune, power, influence, and a host of followers. On the other hand, so does Alex Rodriguez, except for the followers.

This week, A-Rod did the unthinkable. He admitted to taking steroids without being under oath. Rodriguez is one of many baseball players that have been suspected of using performance-enhancing drugs. The Yankees will pay A-Rod 300 million dollars over the next ten years. He is good-looking, articulate, rich, and one of the best baseball players the game has ever seen. Yet, I find myself having sympathy for him. He seems to have everything except people’s respect. Fans, teammates, the Media, and everyone else love to pile on him. Even in New York, where baseball is king, people are Jeter and Rivera fans, but not A-Rod.

A-Rod is one pro athlete that just can’t catch a break in the court of public opinion. No matter what he does, people do not receive it well. Even when admitting to doing the wrong thing, he receives no grace. Look, I know he has his faults and some have been well publicized. For example, when he was still married it was widely known that his stripper girlfriend accompanied him on the Yankees road trips. Do we really think that he is the only married athlete to make this choice? Say what you want about him, but at least he’s smart enough not to end up in jail for perjury.

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I could be wrong...
Counterpoint: How can anyone be a baseball fan these days?

I have always liked the game of baseball. I have enjoyed playing the game and have somewhat enjoyed watching the game. And in the same breath, I'll admit the game can get slow and boring at times. However, there is nothing better and more relaxing than taking in a minor league game in early spring. I will continue to support my local minor league team and support my health.

However, I will not watch a Major League Baseball game from this point forward. I'm sick of these guys. The reasons to "NOT" watch/support these guys now out weigh the reasons why we should and that is sad for the game of baseball - i.e., sky rocketing ticket prices, no team loyalty, steroids, lack of integrity, league lacks proper leadership, out of control egos, etc.

I have no sympathy for anyone that takes steroids to disgrace the game of baseball or any sport for that matter. These exact athletes have made a mockery of the game and for that I have no respect. These athletes need to realize this sport is bigger than the Yankees or even MLB. This is America's game. I guess it's only fitting that America's pastime is now a little more corrupt. I understand that A-Rod took the high road and apologized, however, that does not exempt him from paying the consequences for his actions. Unfortunately in this situation, the only consequences that he will endure will be a few boos. Boo hoo for A-Rod. Just wipe your nose with your money, A-Rod, while I explain to my daughter what "steroids" mean.

Should we send him a "Thinking of You" card...Masked Blogger? He did say he was sorry...?!!? Oh by the way, the guy that robbed the bank last week said he was sorry too. Get off his back!!

A-Rod, you do not have my sympathy.