Finally!
After negotiating and negotiating with Mark Ecko, the procurer of Barry Bonds record breaking ball, the Hall of Fame will be able to display the ball.
Supposedly, the point of contention was that Ecko originally wanted to loan it to the Hall, but the Hall will only accept unconditional donations. In other words, the Hall demanded to be the soul possessor of Bond's ball.
Certainly, we originally thought the hold up was this absurd 'trial' and all the rumors and innuendo that have contaminated Bonds' legacy. It's comforting to know that the Hall is not casting judgment or taking sides prior to a fair and reasonable resolution of Bonds' situation.
Our next concern was that the Hall was taking an opportunity to mitigate Bonds' accomplishment by making some sort of 'statement' through the display. But, the classy way that Mark McGwire's ball was displayed (with no insinuation or innuendo pointing towards his connection to the performance enhancement allegations) certainly lets us know that this is simply a museum documenting Bonds record.
Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of the entire process is Mark Ecko's personal tribute to Bonds. Ecko, a fashion designer with a flair for artistic design, added his very own personal touch to the ball. He branded it.
Ecko branded the ball with a unique star design, custom fashioned to symbolize the amplitude of Bonds' achievement.
Thank you, Baseball Hall of Fame, enshriners of alleged KKK members Rogers Hornsby and Tris Speaker, for making sure you gave Barry Bonds a special place in the Hall. And for taking the time to draw special attention to his most precious artifact...when you never took the time to do so for the so many pieces of memorabilia commemorating the achievements of caucazoid players who may or may not have engaged in questionable activities.
Barry Bonds: the true 'star' of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Showing posts with label barry bonds. Show all posts
Showing posts with label barry bonds. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Roger Clemens: Is Anyone Surprised?
We have been getting email after email referencing the latest choice detail in the Roger Clemens saga. That detail being that Clemens may well have been involved in an intimate relationship with a female minor.
Many of our readers are up in arms that the media is not dragging Clemens over the coals. That the media is not providing non-stop coverage. That children's and women's advocacy groups are not speaking out. Certainly, if Clemens had been a young, Negro accused of not stopping dogs from having fights on his property...advocacy groups would be organizing mass demonstrations against his very existence! Or had Clemens been the Negro Home Run King, we might now be questioning his moral character as a result of his philandering.
But, Clemens is the Cy Young and Strike Out King (read: white), so expectations are different. Media spin is different. And public reaction is different.
Many Negroes and supporters of fair reporting and unspun media commentary have suggested that the media goes out of its way to shine a negative light on the circumstances that Negro athletes find themselves. Many have said that Barry Bonds has been held to a different standard than players such as Mark McGwire. The insinuation is that the media has taken an unfair approach to painting a negative picture of Bonds. That the media has introduced things such as a loose lipped mistress to further soil the linen in which the public perception of Bonds rests.
All of this certainly begs the question: Why is Roger Clemens not being mercilessly demonized? Why is there not a public outcry to nullify his records and awards? Why are baseball people not taking an oath to keep him out of the Hall of Fame?
These are legitimate questions. And, as righteous thinkers we can provide effective and legitimate answers to them.
The answer isn't complicated. And, despite institutionalized efforts that are intertwined between the government, corporations and media; the example of Roger Clemens treatment by the press juxtaposed to Barry Bonds' is not a sinister or conspiratory plot to hold the Negro down or to sully and besmirch a race. Now, be clear in your understanding, this sort of thing is a common tactic used by the Big House to hold down the chattel, but the example we provide here is more rooted in the admission of the differences between the races than in attempts to provide a means to overcome those differences by holding the righteous and Originals back or down.
At times, institutionalized discrimination can reveal more than a simple hatred or distaste for that party or group being mercilessly persecuted and marginalized. It can lend us the opportunity to understand just where that hatred originates. Most of a righteous mind would agree that hatred between humans originates in fear. And fear is borne of a jealous womb.
And, righteous minds understand that even in an institutionally corrupt and fetid environment, the wardens and bosses occasionally allow an honest thought or action to escape them and give away their minds and thoughts. And fears. And jealousies.
Our righteous readers, at this point, understand what we are about to say. They understand that watching Roger Clemens' actions and character be treated with nothing more than a passing glance out of the corner of the media's collective eye is actually something in which the Original athlete can take pride.
We mentioned expectations and standards earlier. Why does a Jared Allen, a convicted habitual drunk driver, get a mere slap on the wrist and a record contract? While a Pacman Jones, unconvicted and characterized by some in the legal/law enforcement profession as a 'hero', get a years suspension? Why is Barry Bonds, whose story seems to parallel Clemens (except Bonds extra-marital dalliance was not started with a minor), run out of the game?
Clearly, the answer is race.
The empirical and anecdotal evidence is not confrontable. It can't be challenged. Please, save your emails. Disagreement is not entertainable.
Let's agree on that. But, also, let's understand what that means.
As we suggested earlier, hatred is rooted in fear is rooted in jealousy. What does that mean? Well, it takes us back to the words expectation and standards.
Negro athletes are held to higher social and moral expectations and standards than their bleached counterparts.
Jared Allen's contract. Roger Clemens' ability to still get a job in baseball if he chooses. These are the proof in the pudding.
Michael Vick. Pacman Jones. Barry Bonds. Carmello Anthony. The list goes on and on. Demonized and crushed under the media grind.
More is expected of our Negro athletes. The media and public don't expect a Jared Allen to be able to control himself and make reasonable choices when it comes to alcohol. The media and public don't expect a Roger Clemens to perform at a high level without chemical assistance. They don't expect a Roger Clemens to exercise the moral restraint to keep his hands off a teenage girl.
The media does expect Michael Vick to have control over what happens at property he pays for. The media does expect Pacman Jones to leave a strip club as soon as he recognizes there is the potential for trouble. The media does expect Barry Bonds to hit massive and numerous home runs with the assistance of balanced nutrition and consistent strength training. And the media does expect Bonds to set a moral example that young people can take value in.
So righteous readers, take pride in the media's continual and relentless pressure cooking of Original athletes who find themselves in odd situations. And take greater pride as white athletes who break laws, lie and show the moral fortitude of a Chicago-machine politician, are reported on in passing and small print by the media.
It's a simple and righteous tip of the hat to the Negro athlete.
More is expected of you.
Because you are better.
Better talents, better people.
Original people.
The day that Roger Clemens goes into the Hall of Fame is the day that Barry Bonds is crowned the greatest baseball player of all time.
The media set the standards.
The Original athlete simply tries to meet them.
Many of our readers are up in arms that the media is not dragging Clemens over the coals. That the media is not providing non-stop coverage. That children's and women's advocacy groups are not speaking out. Certainly, if Clemens had been a young, Negro accused of not stopping dogs from having fights on his property...advocacy groups would be organizing mass demonstrations against his very existence! Or had Clemens been the Negro Home Run King, we might now be questioning his moral character as a result of his philandering.
But, Clemens is the Cy Young and Strike Out King (read: white), so expectations are different. Media spin is different. And public reaction is different.
Many Negroes and supporters of fair reporting and unspun media commentary have suggested that the media goes out of its way to shine a negative light on the circumstances that Negro athletes find themselves. Many have said that Barry Bonds has been held to a different standard than players such as Mark McGwire. The insinuation is that the media has taken an unfair approach to painting a negative picture of Bonds. That the media has introduced things such as a loose lipped mistress to further soil the linen in which the public perception of Bonds rests.
All of this certainly begs the question: Why is Roger Clemens not being mercilessly demonized? Why is there not a public outcry to nullify his records and awards? Why are baseball people not taking an oath to keep him out of the Hall of Fame?
These are legitimate questions. And, as righteous thinkers we can provide effective and legitimate answers to them.
The answer isn't complicated. And, despite institutionalized efforts that are intertwined between the government, corporations and media; the example of Roger Clemens treatment by the press juxtaposed to Barry Bonds' is not a sinister or conspiratory plot to hold the Negro down or to sully and besmirch a race. Now, be clear in your understanding, this sort of thing is a common tactic used by the Big House to hold down the chattel, but the example we provide here is more rooted in the admission of the differences between the races than in attempts to provide a means to overcome those differences by holding the righteous and Originals back or down.
At times, institutionalized discrimination can reveal more than a simple hatred or distaste for that party or group being mercilessly persecuted and marginalized. It can lend us the opportunity to understand just where that hatred originates. Most of a righteous mind would agree that hatred between humans originates in fear. And fear is borne of a jealous womb.
And, righteous minds understand that even in an institutionally corrupt and fetid environment, the wardens and bosses occasionally allow an honest thought or action to escape them and give away their minds and thoughts. And fears. And jealousies.
Our righteous readers, at this point, understand what we are about to say. They understand that watching Roger Clemens' actions and character be treated with nothing more than a passing glance out of the corner of the media's collective eye is actually something in which the Original athlete can take pride.
We mentioned expectations and standards earlier. Why does a Jared Allen, a convicted habitual drunk driver, get a mere slap on the wrist and a record contract? While a Pacman Jones, unconvicted and characterized by some in the legal/law enforcement profession as a 'hero', get a years suspension? Why is Barry Bonds, whose story seems to parallel Clemens (except Bonds extra-marital dalliance was not started with a minor), run out of the game?
Clearly, the answer is race.
The empirical and anecdotal evidence is not confrontable. It can't be challenged. Please, save your emails. Disagreement is not entertainable.
Let's agree on that. But, also, let's understand what that means.
As we suggested earlier, hatred is rooted in fear is rooted in jealousy. What does that mean? Well, it takes us back to the words expectation and standards.
Negro athletes are held to higher social and moral expectations and standards than their bleached counterparts.
Jared Allen's contract. Roger Clemens' ability to still get a job in baseball if he chooses. These are the proof in the pudding.
Michael Vick. Pacman Jones. Barry Bonds. Carmello Anthony. The list goes on and on. Demonized and crushed under the media grind.
More is expected of our Negro athletes. The media and public don't expect a Jared Allen to be able to control himself and make reasonable choices when it comes to alcohol. The media and public don't expect a Roger Clemens to perform at a high level without chemical assistance. They don't expect a Roger Clemens to exercise the moral restraint to keep his hands off a teenage girl.
The media does expect Michael Vick to have control over what happens at property he pays for. The media does expect Pacman Jones to leave a strip club as soon as he recognizes there is the potential for trouble. The media does expect Barry Bonds to hit massive and numerous home runs with the assistance of balanced nutrition and consistent strength training. And the media does expect Bonds to set a moral example that young people can take value in.
So righteous readers, take pride in the media's continual and relentless pressure cooking of Original athletes who find themselves in odd situations. And take greater pride as white athletes who break laws, lie and show the moral fortitude of a Chicago-machine politician, are reported on in passing and small print by the media.
It's a simple and righteous tip of the hat to the Negro athlete.
More is expected of you.
Because you are better.
Better talents, better people.
Original people.
The day that Roger Clemens goes into the Hall of Fame is the day that Barry Bonds is crowned the greatest baseball player of all time.
The media set the standards.
The Original athlete simply tries to meet them.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Barry Bonds: Negro Balled
As spring training gets in full swing and teams sort through talent to fill their opening day rosters, the owner of the greatest swing the game of baseball has ever known works out. At home. With no team. No contract. No offers. 762 home runs. MVP's galore. Waiting by the phone for the chance to play the game that he loves.
How can this be?
Certainly, the man that holds the single season and career home run records is past his prime. But, not one team is interested in bringing in a left hand hitting DH? Not one?
We've seen players who are past their primes (and players who never really had a prime) offered outlandish contracts almost every year.
It's becomes clearer with each moment that passes that Barry Bonds has been 'blackballed' by the league. There is virtually no talk of interest or opportunity. None.
Yet, as Bonds works on keeping his body in shape and healthy, at least one team (the Astros) has said they would let another all time great who has run into trouble play on their team.
We won't be the ones to beat the mortally wounded equine that is Roger Clemens' PED use into further oblivion, but the double standard in MLB is hard to ignore. How can you ignore something that stands in plain sight and smacks you in the face?
Barry, you have set all the records that matter. You have won enough MVP awards to demonstrate your 'mastery' of the white man's game. It's time to hang up your glove. The owners who have aligned against you have proven that they are not worthy of your presence in their company. Let them be the ones that suffer your absence.
Hang up you jock strap and expose what has been covered up.
Blackballed.
How can this be?
Certainly, the man that holds the single season and career home run records is past his prime. But, not one team is interested in bringing in a left hand hitting DH? Not one?
We've seen players who are past their primes (and players who never really had a prime) offered outlandish contracts almost every year.
It's becomes clearer with each moment that passes that Barry Bonds has been 'blackballed' by the league. There is virtually no talk of interest or opportunity. None.
Yet, as Bonds works on keeping his body in shape and healthy, at least one team (the Astros) has said they would let another all time great who has run into trouble play on their team.
We won't be the ones to beat the mortally wounded equine that is Roger Clemens' PED use into further oblivion, but the double standard in MLB is hard to ignore. How can you ignore something that stands in plain sight and smacks you in the face?
Barry, you have set all the records that matter. You have won enough MVP awards to demonstrate your 'mastery' of the white man's game. It's time to hang up your glove. The owners who have aligned against you have proven that they are not worthy of your presence in their company. Let them be the ones that suffer your absence.
Hang up you jock strap and expose what has been covered up.
Blackballed.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Andy Pettitte: Serpent Tongued He-Devil
As the mainstream media continues the kid gloved handling of the assumed chemically enhanced career of Roger Clemens; Andy Pettitte (Clemens co-cheater and best friend) assaults us with an attempt to distract us from the reality of the situation.
In a steroid/hGH induced version of 'good cop, bad cop', Clemens continues his denials and offensive defense of his 'innocense'. At the same time, Pettite crawls out before the media to provide a self gratifying and distractory mea culpa in which he apologizes for breaking the law and cheating. Begging forgiveness for disgracing the game and his team, offending his fans, and dragging his father (who helped him obtain a scheduled drug) into the sordid affair. Pettitte comes across as contrite and honest.
Someone nominate this man for an Oscar.
Pettitte's attempt to distract us and take the headlines from Clemens is possibly the most transparent ploy we have witnessed. As Pettitte throws himself under the bus and somehow backs it up over and over again across his own hGH laden carcass; the media is letting Clemens get away with the sports equivalent of murder. The intentional and pre-planned assassination of a generation of fans' memories and thrills of the national past time.
The media did it's job in the case of the home run record setter. The posse gathered and strung their rope. Lynching him on circumstantial evidence and heresay. But now, when the culprit is a pitcher (read: white), the tactics have changed.
When the home run hitter's friend wouldn't actively implicate him, the friend was tossed in jail. The media implied that he must be getting some sort of financial reward to keep his mouth shut. That the home run hitter's accomplishments should be expunged from the record books.
Now, the pitcher's friend stands before us, humbled and remorseful. Wanting to cleanse his soul so that he can "sleep better at night" by detailing his sins and clearing his conscience. Open and honest. Even asking reporters, "did I answer your question", numerous times.
But let the line of questioning cross the threshold of the conspiracy's inner most evil, and suddenly the open and honest penance seeker is loathe to continue. Yes, ask him that question that truly matters, and the response and tenor of the conversation change on a dime, "I am not going there."
Mr. Pettitte, despite your carefully crafted plea for forgiveness and imitation of honest undressing of your inner demons, we as a sports Nation cannot (and will not) allow you the comfort of a restful night's sleep. We pray that your conscience continue to provide you with a heavy, heavy burden. That each time you close your eyes, or so much as blink, they burn. By the Great Power may your eyes roast in the fires of infidelity.
Until the time you can find it within your soul to embark on the righteous course, you shall be a pariah of the sports Nation.
Only on that day in which you confide in the sporting public the righteous truth; that YES, your friend Roger Clemens injected into the body our maker did provide him synthetic hormones in an effort to extend his talent, career and legacy. Only on that day shall you be free of the loathesome weight you carry around your neck. Only on that day shall the eyes of the sports Nation gaze upon you again.
Your attempts to shine the spotlight on your own sins so as to allow your pitcher friend to scurry in the shadows like a rat in a dark alley shall be your ticket to damnation.
And may all the accusers of the home run hitter be there with you should they not demand the placement of an asterisk next to those 300+ wins.
In a steroid/hGH induced version of 'good cop, bad cop', Clemens continues his denials and offensive defense of his 'innocense'. At the same time, Pettite crawls out before the media to provide a self gratifying and distractory mea culpa in which he apologizes for breaking the law and cheating. Begging forgiveness for disgracing the game and his team, offending his fans, and dragging his father (who helped him obtain a scheduled drug) into the sordid affair. Pettitte comes across as contrite and honest.
Someone nominate this man for an Oscar.
Pettitte's attempt to distract us and take the headlines from Clemens is possibly the most transparent ploy we have witnessed. As Pettitte throws himself under the bus and somehow backs it up over and over again across his own hGH laden carcass; the media is letting Clemens get away with the sports equivalent of murder. The intentional and pre-planned assassination of a generation of fans' memories and thrills of the national past time.
The media did it's job in the case of the home run record setter. The posse gathered and strung their rope. Lynching him on circumstantial evidence and heresay. But now, when the culprit is a pitcher (read: white), the tactics have changed.
When the home run hitter's friend wouldn't actively implicate him, the friend was tossed in jail. The media implied that he must be getting some sort of financial reward to keep his mouth shut. That the home run hitter's accomplishments should be expunged from the record books.
Now, the pitcher's friend stands before us, humbled and remorseful. Wanting to cleanse his soul so that he can "sleep better at night" by detailing his sins and clearing his conscience. Open and honest. Even asking reporters, "did I answer your question", numerous times.
But let the line of questioning cross the threshold of the conspiracy's inner most evil, and suddenly the open and honest penance seeker is loathe to continue. Yes, ask him that question that truly matters, and the response and tenor of the conversation change on a dime, "I am not going there."
Mr. Pettitte, despite your carefully crafted plea for forgiveness and imitation of honest undressing of your inner demons, we as a sports Nation cannot (and will not) allow you the comfort of a restful night's sleep. We pray that your conscience continue to provide you with a heavy, heavy burden. That each time you close your eyes, or so much as blink, they burn. By the Great Power may your eyes roast in the fires of infidelity.
Until the time you can find it within your soul to embark on the righteous course, you shall be a pariah of the sports Nation.
Only on that day in which you confide in the sporting public the righteous truth; that YES, your friend Roger Clemens injected into the body our maker did provide him synthetic hormones in an effort to extend his talent, career and legacy. Only on that day shall you be free of the loathesome weight you carry around your neck. Only on that day shall the eyes of the sports Nation gaze upon you again.
Your attempts to shine the spotlight on your own sins so as to allow your pitcher friend to scurry in the shadows like a rat in a dark alley shall be your ticket to damnation.
And may all the accusers of the home run hitter be there with you should they not demand the placement of an asterisk next to those 300+ wins.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Of Roger Clemens and John Rocker...
Just a quick note:
As the Roger Clemens debacle plays out before Congress, and the media gently handles the overwhelming evidence and testimony demonstrating that the pride of white America's baseball has synthetic hormones running through his blood...John Rocker screams for attention.
While it becomes clearer and clearer that Clemens is a cheater of the most heinous nature, John Rocker stands on a chair demanding that you listen to him.
While white 'columnist' are loathe to demand asterisks next to his accomplishments, despite the evidence being far more damning than that of other record setters the lynch mob has demonized....John Rocker has a confession to make.
Feeling left out. Rocker, despite denying it in the past, is now confessing to being a cheat.
While we doubt Rocker ever used any drugs of this nature (let's face it, the man can not be accused of ever having played with an enhanced performance), we admire his PR effort.
Any press is good press. And Rocker is on the radio and in print.
This whole steroid thing could lead to an entire generation of irrelevent and unnecessary 'confessions'.
Who will be next in the quest to be a lead story on SportsCenter?
And, why is anyone even pretending that there is a chance Clemens isn't a juice monkey?
Barry got no benefit of the doubt, with far less evidence against him.
It's time for the columnist to demand that the Cy Youngs be turned back in. That an asterisk be placed next to the wins and the strikeouts.
Fair is fair.
Unless it's foul.
As the Roger Clemens debacle plays out before Congress, and the media gently handles the overwhelming evidence and testimony demonstrating that the pride of white America's baseball has synthetic hormones running through his blood...John Rocker screams for attention.
While it becomes clearer and clearer that Clemens is a cheater of the most heinous nature, John Rocker stands on a chair demanding that you listen to him.
While white 'columnist' are loathe to demand asterisks next to his accomplishments, despite the evidence being far more damning than that of other record setters the lynch mob has demonized....John Rocker has a confession to make.
Feeling left out. Rocker, despite denying it in the past, is now confessing to being a cheat.
While we doubt Rocker ever used any drugs of this nature (let's face it, the man can not be accused of ever having played with an enhanced performance), we admire his PR effort.
Any press is good press. And Rocker is on the radio and in print.
This whole steroid thing could lead to an entire generation of irrelevent and unnecessary 'confessions'.
Who will be next in the quest to be a lead story on SportsCenter?
And, why is anyone even pretending that there is a chance Clemens isn't a juice monkey?
Barry got no benefit of the doubt, with far less evidence against him.
It's time for the columnist to demand that the Cy Youngs be turned back in. That an asterisk be placed next to the wins and the strikeouts.
Fair is fair.
Unless it's foul.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Bonds: Unfair Court Actions
As Barry Bonds now deals with the ramifications of his federal indictment and faces the possibility of time behind bars, his 'friend' and personal trainer has been set free.
Greg Anderson was imprisoned for his role in this Barry Bonds struggle. The simple rundown is that he supposedly wouldn't cooperate with investigators and as punishment for zipping his lips, he was placed in federal custody.
It's understandable that the courts would lock Anderson up. Hoping to bring Bonds down, any allegations that they could attribute to Anderson would be damning. They would be perceived as fact. Strong arming him into saying Bonds was a steroid junkie certainly would be in character with common methods of coerced testimony.
But, now, after over a year in jail for Anderson, the indictment is handed down. An indictment that holds no new information or testimony from Anderson. Yet Anderson is freed.
Obviously, the government is confident in their case, or they wouldn't indict.
The government believes that Bonds perjured himself in Grand Jury testimony by denying his knowing and willful use of steroids. And is intent on locking him up.
The only problem:
They just freed the man who's access to steroids provided the link which tarnished the image of the Home Run King of baseball. Thereby, severely hurting the game and providing the youth of America with the perception of Bonds being a less than upstanding role model. All the questions involving perjury and tax evasion can be attributed to events that played out due to Anderson's association with Bonds.
When a man is crossing the street and is intentionally run over by a truck, do we indict the pedestrian and set the driver free? Well, that is what the government is doing before our very eyes.
The government already had the man responsible for any of the alleged improprieties that Mr. Bonds may or may not have issued a denial to unknowingly or unintentionally purposefully being subjected.
Unfortunately for Bonds, he is being caught in the crossfire of the governments war on steroids.
Which makes a bigger splash and career booster for those involved:
A blurb in the US Today about someone named Greg Anderson being locked up for steroid distribution and injecting an unaware Barry Bonds with steroids.
Or,
Constant media headlines in print, tv, radio and the internet trumpeting the downfall of Barry Bonds for possibly or improbably accepting the bad judgment of some else's advice about what supplements to take and then being confused about what he had actually taken when faced with the scrutiny and high pressure of a hostile and inquisitionist environment in a Grand Jury assembled with the visible intention of destroying his career, fortune and legacy.
Which?
Exactly.
It's time for the legal system to right their wrongs.
And lock up Greg Anderson.
Greg Anderson was imprisoned for his role in this Barry Bonds struggle. The simple rundown is that he supposedly wouldn't cooperate with investigators and as punishment for zipping his lips, he was placed in federal custody.
It's understandable that the courts would lock Anderson up. Hoping to bring Bonds down, any allegations that they could attribute to Anderson would be damning. They would be perceived as fact. Strong arming him into saying Bonds was a steroid junkie certainly would be in character with common methods of coerced testimony.
But, now, after over a year in jail for Anderson, the indictment is handed down. An indictment that holds no new information or testimony from Anderson. Yet Anderson is freed.
Obviously, the government is confident in their case, or they wouldn't indict.
The government believes that Bonds perjured himself in Grand Jury testimony by denying his knowing and willful use of steroids. And is intent on locking him up.
The only problem:
They just freed the man who's access to steroids provided the link which tarnished the image of the Home Run King of baseball. Thereby, severely hurting the game and providing the youth of America with the perception of Bonds being a less than upstanding role model. All the questions involving perjury and tax evasion can be attributed to events that played out due to Anderson's association with Bonds.
When a man is crossing the street and is intentionally run over by a truck, do we indict the pedestrian and set the driver free? Well, that is what the government is doing before our very eyes.
The government already had the man responsible for any of the alleged improprieties that Mr. Bonds may or may not have issued a denial to unknowingly or unintentionally purposefully being subjected.
Unfortunately for Bonds, he is being caught in the crossfire of the governments war on steroids.
Which makes a bigger splash and career booster for those involved:
A blurb in the US Today about someone named Greg Anderson being locked up for steroid distribution and injecting an unaware Barry Bonds with steroids.
Or,
Constant media headlines in print, tv, radio and the internet trumpeting the downfall of Barry Bonds for possibly or improbably accepting the bad judgment of some else's advice about what supplements to take and then being confused about what he had actually taken when faced with the scrutiny and high pressure of a hostile and inquisitionist environment in a Grand Jury assembled with the visible intention of destroying his career, fortune and legacy.
Which?
Exactly.
It's time for the legal system to right their wrongs.
And lock up Greg Anderson.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Gilbert Arenas: The Right Thing To Do
We've taken some heat for our post supporting Mark Ecko's affinity for balls.
Seems like we aren't the only ones who thinking branding the ball is a bad idea.
From 100%_Injury_Rate, looks like Gilbert Arenas is not thrilled with the idea either. And it looks like the Hibachi is trying to do something about it.
"But anyway, the gist of how Gil feels about the ball is simple. Here's some of what Agent Zero said:
"It's history," Gil began. "It's still history. I mean, the guy's a man before he's some big slugger. I mean, how you just going to take what this man's done for his career and, as another man, say 'Hey, you were accused of this, you allegedly did this, I want to take this away from you.' I mean, what if we took away your Ecko company? "
All this puts us in a conundrum.
We support Ecko's right to handle balls.
But we also think that Arenas makes a strong case for not permanently scarring the historic artifact.
Compromise is the solution.
Allow Ecko to make himself up with some nice red lipstick and kiss Bonds' ball, leaving a non-permanent mark.
Problem solved.
Seems like we aren't the only ones who thinking branding the ball is a bad idea.
From 100%_Injury_Rate, looks like Gilbert Arenas is not thrilled with the idea either. And it looks like the Hibachi is trying to do something about it.
"But anyway, the gist of how Gil feels about the ball is simple. Here's some of what Agent Zero said:
"It's history," Gil began. "It's still history. I mean, the guy's a man before he's some big slugger. I mean, how you just going to take what this man's done for his career and, as another man, say 'Hey, you were accused of this, you allegedly did this, I want to take this away from you.' I mean, what if we took away your Ecko company? "
All this puts us in a conundrum.
We support Ecko's right to handle balls.
But we also think that Arenas makes a strong case for not permanently scarring the historic artifact.
Compromise is the solution.
Allow Ecko to make himself up with some nice red lipstick and kiss Bonds' ball, leaving a non-permanent mark.
Problem solved.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Bonds: Ball To Be Branded
As the Giants and Bonds sever their relationship, it has been announced that the buyer of Bonds' record breaking home run will brand the ball with an asterisk and send it to the Hall of Fame.
Certainly, on initially being informed, we found this to be a distasteful act. Regardless of one's personal feelings about Bonds' accomplishments, defacing what may well end up being one of the most important pieces of baseball memorabilia seemed like a selfish act.
But further reflection and investigation led us to understand that this is something that the renowned baseball fan and historian -fashionista Mark Ecko- feels compelled to do based on his legendary involvement as a fan and as an activist in campaigning for the integrity and sanctity of the game.
As with most male fashionistas, his self expression is best exemplified through artistic contribution. Therefore, it seems logical for him to handle a ball as the object and target of his passion. Of his passionate act.
Certainly, what must be most troubling for a super fan and baseball guy like Ecko, is the media coverage of the event.
Ecko went the low key route of asking internet friends what they would like him to do with the ball. Somehow, through no effort or initiative of his own, it became a highly publicized event. Ecko simply wanted to get some opinions on how best to show his personal belief that Bonds' record was tainted. And, much to his chagrin, this turned into a media carnival which put Ecko in the news more than he probably ever had been. And brought him to sports media outlets probably for the very first time.
So, unfortunately, what was initiated as a passionate and individual statement about a fashionista's personal and intimate feelings for a ball, was turned into a cheap stunt by the every meddling media.
We feel compelled to stand up for Mark Ecko, baseball fan and guardian of the game.
This wasn't about publicity. This wasn't about the Ecko brand.
This was about a fashion designer's passion for balls.
Certainly, on initially being informed, we found this to be a distasteful act. Regardless of one's personal feelings about Bonds' accomplishments, defacing what may well end up being one of the most important pieces of baseball memorabilia seemed like a selfish act.
But further reflection and investigation led us to understand that this is something that the renowned baseball fan and historian -fashionista Mark Ecko- feels compelled to do based on his legendary involvement as a fan and as an activist in campaigning for the integrity and sanctity of the game.
As with most male fashionistas, his self expression is best exemplified through artistic contribution. Therefore, it seems logical for him to handle a ball as the object and target of his passion. Of his passionate act.
Certainly, what must be most troubling for a super fan and baseball guy like Ecko, is the media coverage of the event.
Ecko went the low key route of asking internet friends what they would like him to do with the ball. Somehow, through no effort or initiative of his own, it became a highly publicized event. Ecko simply wanted to get some opinions on how best to show his personal belief that Bonds' record was tainted. And, much to his chagrin, this turned into a media carnival which put Ecko in the news more than he probably ever had been. And brought him to sports media outlets probably for the very first time.
So, unfortunately, what was initiated as a passionate and individual statement about a fashionista's personal and intimate feelings for a ball, was turned into a cheap stunt by the every meddling media.
We feel compelled to stand up for Mark Ecko, baseball fan and guardian of the game.
This wasn't about publicity. This wasn't about the Ecko brand.
This was about a fashion designer's passion for balls.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Rick Ankiel: Let's Give the Guy a Break
The investigation into that HGH shop in Florida has turned up yet another athlete that has been documented as receiving HGH.
St. Louis Cardinal Rick Ankiel.
Ankiel, as most baseball fans know, was a promising pitcher who ran into a Knobloch like mental block and couldn't stop from throwing pitches into the backstop.
He gained a reprieve in the minors due to his hitting ability and is having some success after being called up.
It's a great story. And seemed to be on the way to a happy ending.
But, the connection to PED's certainly will tarnish Ankiels feel good story.
"This is the first I've heard of this," Cardinals general manager Walt Jocketty told the Daily News. "If it's true, obviously it would be very tragic, along with everything else we've had happen to us this year."
We couldn't agree more.
This would be a tragedy. Clearly, a player connected to HGH or PED's is tragic. Clearly, such an event would be categorized equally with another player on the team dying in a car wreck.
Victims. All are victims.
But, further examination shows that it might not be all that horrible an occurrence for either Ankiel or the Cards.
Major League Baseball doesn't test for HGH, and the sport didn't ban human growth hormone until 2005. But a player who possessed it or used it after it was banned can be suspended for 50 games. Authorities have not accused Ankiel of any wrongdoing, the newspaper said. According to the Signature records the News cited, he stopped receiving HGH just before baseball banned it in 2005.
Obviously, if Ankiel was using HGH before it was banned by baseball, then we shouldn't expect MLB to take action, right? And certainly, why would law enforcement accuse a pro athlete who surreptitiously comes into possession of a controlled substance of wrong doing?
The Daily News said Major League Baseball officials declined to comment, saying they would "look into" the allegations but weren't sure if any action could be taken.
Right!
The feel good story of Ankiel looks like it will continue, although with just a shred of skepticism. But, it doesn't seem like this will - and, since he did possess it before it was banned, shouldn't - have an adverse effect on Ankiel's career or the public's perception of his accomplishments.
It doesn't seem to be bothering Ankiel, as the former HGH possessor smacked 2 homers yesterday.
In related news:
Barry Bonds, accused of using PED's before they were tested for and officially banned by MLB, continues to be the recipient of negative press, demands for asterisks next to his records, boos and taunts from opposing fans and investigations categorizing his possible usage of said substances as criminal.
Yes indeed.
One standard applied to all players.
Nothing to see here folks. Move along.
And MLB was wondering why Negroes have lost interest in the game not too long ago, weren't they?
Can't imagine why.
St. Louis Cardinal Rick Ankiel.
Ankiel, as most baseball fans know, was a promising pitcher who ran into a Knobloch like mental block and couldn't stop from throwing pitches into the backstop.
He gained a reprieve in the minors due to his hitting ability and is having some success after being called up.
It's a great story. And seemed to be on the way to a happy ending.
But, the connection to PED's certainly will tarnish Ankiels feel good story.
"This is the first I've heard of this," Cardinals general manager Walt Jocketty told the Daily News. "If it's true, obviously it would be very tragic, along with everything else we've had happen to us this year."
We couldn't agree more.
This would be a tragedy. Clearly, a player connected to HGH or PED's is tragic. Clearly, such an event would be categorized equally with another player on the team dying in a car wreck.
Victims. All are victims.
But, further examination shows that it might not be all that horrible an occurrence for either Ankiel or the Cards.
Major League Baseball doesn't test for HGH, and the sport didn't ban human growth hormone until 2005. But a player who possessed it or used it after it was banned can be suspended for 50 games. Authorities have not accused Ankiel of any wrongdoing, the newspaper said. According to the Signature records the News cited, he stopped receiving HGH just before baseball banned it in 2005.
Obviously, if Ankiel was using HGH before it was banned by baseball, then we shouldn't expect MLB to take action, right? And certainly, why would law enforcement accuse a pro athlete who surreptitiously comes into possession of a controlled substance of wrong doing?
The Daily News said Major League Baseball officials declined to comment, saying they would "look into" the allegations but weren't sure if any action could be taken.
Right!
The feel good story of Ankiel looks like it will continue, although with just a shred of skepticism. But, it doesn't seem like this will - and, since he did possess it before it was banned, shouldn't - have an adverse effect on Ankiel's career or the public's perception of his accomplishments.
It doesn't seem to be bothering Ankiel, as the former HGH possessor smacked 2 homers yesterday.
In related news:
Barry Bonds, accused of using PED's before they were tested for and officially banned by MLB, continues to be the recipient of negative press, demands for asterisks next to his records, boos and taunts from opposing fans and investigations categorizing his possible usage of said substances as criminal.
Yes indeed.
One standard applied to all players.
Nothing to see here folks. Move along.
And MLB was wondering why Negroes have lost interest in the game not too long ago, weren't they?
Can't imagine why.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Bonds: It's Required To Give Him His Due
As Barry Bonds hoisted his powerful arms up into the air after launching the shot heard 'round the world, a great burden was lifted.
Not just Barry's burden. Not just the ever increasing weight placed upon him by a vicious and inhumane media. But a burden felt by all baseball fans. A burden carried by all people.
And now that the chase is over. The quest conquered. The haj complete. We must all look to heal from the damage that the mainstream media has inflicted upon us during the course of Barry's chase.
The best way to heal? Exalt in the majesty of Mr. Bonds' triumph.
If the media can finally lay bias to rest and simply give the new Home Run King the fair treatment and respect due, baseball can recover. Bonds can recover. We can all recover.
The time has come to treat Bonds as we have treated every other player that has performed at super human levels and attained unmatched supremacy.
Is Bonds the first player to be accused of "cheating"?
How many players in the Hall of Fame had reputations as cheaters? How many pushed the limits of the technology available during their careers? Ty Cobb? Gaylord Perry? How many others?
Yet, we kind of snicker about Gaylord Perry and his spit balls. About Ty Cobb and his sharpening his cleats and other tactics. And we vote them into the Hall of Fame with nary a word of dissention.
But, Barry Bonds comes along and is crucified. Grand Juries are convened. Expose books are written. Fans are whipped into a frenzy and urged to take an indignant stance to his accomplishment.
What did Bonds do that separates him from all the others that have operated in a gray area, or just plain cheated in sports?
Bonds played in an era in which MLB purposely and willfully turned its collective back to what was going on with a large portion of the players. The league didn't conduct testing. The league didn't even officially ban many substances. While players began to look like bodybuilders and home runs flew out of parks at unheard of rates, the commissioner and the owners counted receipts. They posed as those three monkeys with their hands over their eyes, ears and mouths: hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil.
And now, when they are called onto the carpet for what transpired, for what they allowed and encouraged through complicit silence...now, we are to all accept that Bonds is the anti-christ in all this?
Players like Bonds are driven. What makes them great is their will to succeed. Part of that is to excel through any means necessary. And, if there is a loop hole in the system, they will find it. In fact, we'd argue that they are encouraged to find it.
Lance Armstrong is a hero. Beloved by the media, and therefore the fans. But, there is more dirt out there on him than any superstar athlete. More individuals connect him to doping than any athlete. He has been returned dubious test results.
But no mention of placing an asterisk next to his name in the record books.
Armstrong is cherished.
It's time to cherish Bonds. To honor his accomplishments. To look past the accusations and the character assaults. It's time to understand that he played the game during an era that encouraged and allowed players to take that extra step. To go above and beyond normal training methods.
Baseball is redefining itself and the owners and commissioner have now been forced to address the issue. But that doesn't change the fact that for decades they silently sat by and watched. And Bonds should not be the lone scapegoat burned in effigy by the media.
MLB created Barry Bonds. He is of their doing. MLB's very own "frankenstein".
To unleash him, and then pretend he didn't become exactly what MLB expected or wanted is the greatest lie in all of this.
The key to moving forward now that the chase has ended is honoring baseball's greatest creation.
Baseball purists argue that Bonds is bad for the game. That his being the Home Run King tarnishes the purity of the game.
Well, any organization that would silently stand by and pretend to not see what went on, and then later accept no responsibility for it, is an impure entity.
The only pure entity in all of this?
Bonds' swing.
Honor it. So we can all heal. Together.
Not just Barry's burden. Not just the ever increasing weight placed upon him by a vicious and inhumane media. But a burden felt by all baseball fans. A burden carried by all people.
And now that the chase is over. The quest conquered. The haj complete. We must all look to heal from the damage that the mainstream media has inflicted upon us during the course of Barry's chase.
The best way to heal? Exalt in the majesty of Mr. Bonds' triumph.
If the media can finally lay bias to rest and simply give the new Home Run King the fair treatment and respect due, baseball can recover. Bonds can recover. We can all recover.
The time has come to treat Bonds as we have treated every other player that has performed at super human levels and attained unmatched supremacy.
Is Bonds the first player to be accused of "cheating"?
How many players in the Hall of Fame had reputations as cheaters? How many pushed the limits of the technology available during their careers? Ty Cobb? Gaylord Perry? How many others?
Yet, we kind of snicker about Gaylord Perry and his spit balls. About Ty Cobb and his sharpening his cleats and other tactics. And we vote them into the Hall of Fame with nary a word of dissention.
But, Barry Bonds comes along and is crucified. Grand Juries are convened. Expose books are written. Fans are whipped into a frenzy and urged to take an indignant stance to his accomplishment.
What did Bonds do that separates him from all the others that have operated in a gray area, or just plain cheated in sports?
Bonds played in an era in which MLB purposely and willfully turned its collective back to what was going on with a large portion of the players. The league didn't conduct testing. The league didn't even officially ban many substances. While players began to look like bodybuilders and home runs flew out of parks at unheard of rates, the commissioner and the owners counted receipts. They posed as those three monkeys with their hands over their eyes, ears and mouths: hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil.
And now, when they are called onto the carpet for what transpired, for what they allowed and encouraged through complicit silence...now, we are to all accept that Bonds is the anti-christ in all this?
Players like Bonds are driven. What makes them great is their will to succeed. Part of that is to excel through any means necessary. And, if there is a loop hole in the system, they will find it. In fact, we'd argue that they are encouraged to find it.
Lance Armstrong is a hero. Beloved by the media, and therefore the fans. But, there is more dirt out there on him than any superstar athlete. More individuals connect him to doping than any athlete. He has been returned dubious test results.
But no mention of placing an asterisk next to his name in the record books.
Armstrong is cherished.
It's time to cherish Bonds. To honor his accomplishments. To look past the accusations and the character assaults. It's time to understand that he played the game during an era that encouraged and allowed players to take that extra step. To go above and beyond normal training methods.
Baseball is redefining itself and the owners and commissioner have now been forced to address the issue. But that doesn't change the fact that for decades they silently sat by and watched. And Bonds should not be the lone scapegoat burned in effigy by the media.
MLB created Barry Bonds. He is of their doing. MLB's very own "frankenstein".
To unleash him, and then pretend he didn't become exactly what MLB expected or wanted is the greatest lie in all of this.
The key to moving forward now that the chase has ended is honoring baseball's greatest creation.
Baseball purists argue that Bonds is bad for the game. That his being the Home Run King tarnishes the purity of the game.
Well, any organization that would silently stand by and pretend to not see what went on, and then later accept no responsibility for it, is an impure entity.
The only pure entity in all of this?
Bonds' swing.
Honor it. So we can all heal. Together.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Scoop Jackson: Defiance Personified
We take a lot of heat for our exuberant defense of individual rights. For our never ending struggle to try to persuade the rest of America to see past skin color. For making the clear, undeniable case that the struggle for civil rights has only just begun. That it isn't over. That it is everywhere. That if it isn't in plain site, we will find a way to expose it.
Blogfrica is a hot continent. Heat does not bother us.
We are told that we are biased. That we always stick up for the Negro, no matter the circumstances.
But, for the non-racists, it is clear that we stand up for wronged individuals. Misrepresented individuals.
Some of whom happen to be Negroes.
While the voice of NOIS resonates throughout Blogfrica, perhaps the most influential and admired voice that stands for the rights of wronged individuals in sports is that of Scoop Jackson.
Long renowned for his poetic outlook on the world of sports, Mr. Jackson is often at the forefront of any defense of young athletes that are mistakenly (whether purposely or not) portrayed by the media in a negative light. Jackson was the first to point out that the caustic outrage and fear relayed by the media in its reporting of this year past's NBA all star festivities was sensationalized and opportunistic. That it was conveyed in a manner meant to degrade the cultural relevance of 'hip hop' and purposely fabricated to ensure that white America retain a healthy fear of young Negro males.
Mr. Jackson has also eloquently pleaded his case of why it is important to root for the Williams sisters when they take the court. He makes the case that, in reality, it is an obligation. That it is a matter of self preservation.
Well, Mr. Jackson has now eloquently and inarguably educated us on the Bonds saga.
Bonds hit 754. I finally bought a jersey; had to -- an official Russell Authentic game jersey, size 44. The hate he was receiving had reached a point of insanity. The business of baseball had made this personal. "Behind every great fortune there is a crime." "Godfather" speak. Balzac. In a culture of wrongdoing in the game, Bonds was being singled out. So I dropped $250 in the name of defiance. The same defiance made us support O.J. even if we thought he was guilty and not abandon Al Sharpton when we knew he was wrong about Tawana.
Can you see? It isn't about right or wrong. Those that would pretend that Bonds has done something wrong miss the complete picture. He was a part of something wrong to begin with! Just as O.J. and Al Sharpton were.
Al Sharpton was fighting racism. He was fighting the imagined mistreatment of a young Negro woman. Reality isn't even something that should have been brought into the picture. To suggest or accept that Sharpton should be held accountable for championing a fallacious tale would be to suggest that it would be wrong to fight racism.
The only appropriate response is defiance. "The story is not true? So what. Racism exists in this country. That's the truth."
O.J. was tried by a system which was not perfect. Material evidence? DNA evidence? What does it matter? If the system had inconsistencies or corruptions within it, then the only appropriate response was to support him. And, in the end, the system proved that the defiance was a fair and reasonable reaction. Despite the evidence, he was acquitted! What more proof of a faulty and questionable system was necessary to validate the supportive defiance?
So, Mr. Jackson's purchase and wearing of a Bonds' jersey is an act of the type of social defiance that has made any gains for Negroes in America possible.
Racist? No. Protective? No doubt. Overprotective? Probably. Wrong? Please. Defiance is part of the existence of who we are. It becomes part of our DNA in times like this, when one of our own seems to be rightfully accused but wrongly treated. It's a convoluted, twisted sense of purpose fueled by a sanctimonious and overtly self-righteous coverage of someone who may have committed a sin in the hell baseball had become. We are defiant in times like these because others are being made saints and bigger heroes at the expense of Bonds. Aaron has entered some sort of mythical sainthood. A-Rod all of a sudden is as pure as Rahsaan Patterson's voice or Don Cheadle's acting. We are defiant in times like these because even when we have advantages, the playing field is not level, not for us.
Mr. Jackson makes the case that being defiant in the support of a fellow Negro, who may well be completely wrong, is not a racist act. It can't be. And understand why.
It can't be a racist act because, regardless of the right or wrong, odds are that the Negro is not being treated fairly. And that is the racist act! Supporting the wrongly treated Negro by defiantly standing up for him despite his guilt or own wrong actions is fighting racism.
Supporting Bonds. Supporting Michael Vick. Neither is a commentary on whether what they did is wrong or right. Because it doesn't matter. The defiance is about creating equality.
So, when you read about someone supporting Vick or praising Bonds, realize that dog fighting or steroids aren't a part of the equation. Understand, that the defiant support in the face of the accusations is about fairness. It is about achieving equal treatment. Accept that the suggestion that one is supporting either man simply because he is a Negro is the racist act.
The defiant support with complete disregard for accountability of action or wrong doing is an attempt to bring America together. It is an effort to demonstrate that skin color does not matter. That we all should be treated equally.
A young black man at a public library had on a Michael Vick jersey one day last week. I walked up to him, thinking about my Bonds jersey. Said, "You big for wearing that." He simply said, "Thanks." Then, almost as an afterthought, he said, "I think he's guilty as hell, but I still got his back."
We too had something in common. As we should.
As we all should.
Have his back.
Regardless of his skin color.
Regardless of right or wrong.
It's not what you do, it's how you are treated after you do it.
We defy you to suggest otherwise.
Blogfrica is a hot continent. Heat does not bother us.
We are told that we are biased. That we always stick up for the Negro, no matter the circumstances.
But, for the non-racists, it is clear that we stand up for wronged individuals. Misrepresented individuals.
Some of whom happen to be Negroes.
While the voice of NOIS resonates throughout Blogfrica, perhaps the most influential and admired voice that stands for the rights of wronged individuals in sports is that of Scoop Jackson.
Long renowned for his poetic outlook on the world of sports, Mr. Jackson is often at the forefront of any defense of young athletes that are mistakenly (whether purposely or not) portrayed by the media in a negative light. Jackson was the first to point out that the caustic outrage and fear relayed by the media in its reporting of this year past's NBA all star festivities was sensationalized and opportunistic. That it was conveyed in a manner meant to degrade the cultural relevance of 'hip hop' and purposely fabricated to ensure that white America retain a healthy fear of young Negro males.
Mr. Jackson has also eloquently pleaded his case of why it is important to root for the Williams sisters when they take the court. He makes the case that, in reality, it is an obligation. That it is a matter of self preservation.
Well, Mr. Jackson has now eloquently and inarguably educated us on the Bonds saga.
Bonds hit 754. I finally bought a jersey; had to -- an official Russell Authentic game jersey, size 44. The hate he was receiving had reached a point of insanity. The business of baseball had made this personal. "Behind every great fortune there is a crime." "Godfather" speak. Balzac. In a culture of wrongdoing in the game, Bonds was being singled out. So I dropped $250 in the name of defiance. The same defiance made us support O.J. even if we thought he was guilty and not abandon Al Sharpton when we knew he was wrong about Tawana.
Can you see? It isn't about right or wrong. Those that would pretend that Bonds has done something wrong miss the complete picture. He was a part of something wrong to begin with! Just as O.J. and Al Sharpton were.
Al Sharpton was fighting racism. He was fighting the imagined mistreatment of a young Negro woman. Reality isn't even something that should have been brought into the picture. To suggest or accept that Sharpton should be held accountable for championing a fallacious tale would be to suggest that it would be wrong to fight racism.
The only appropriate response is defiance. "The story is not true? So what. Racism exists in this country. That's the truth."
O.J. was tried by a system which was not perfect. Material evidence? DNA evidence? What does it matter? If the system had inconsistencies or corruptions within it, then the only appropriate response was to support him. And, in the end, the system proved that the defiance was a fair and reasonable reaction. Despite the evidence, he was acquitted! What more proof of a faulty and questionable system was necessary to validate the supportive defiance?
So, Mr. Jackson's purchase and wearing of a Bonds' jersey is an act of the type of social defiance that has made any gains for Negroes in America possible.
Racist? No. Protective? No doubt. Overprotective? Probably. Wrong? Please. Defiance is part of the existence of who we are. It becomes part of our DNA in times like this, when one of our own seems to be rightfully accused but wrongly treated. It's a convoluted, twisted sense of purpose fueled by a sanctimonious and overtly self-righteous coverage of someone who may have committed a sin in the hell baseball had become. We are defiant in times like these because others are being made saints and bigger heroes at the expense of Bonds. Aaron has entered some sort of mythical sainthood. A-Rod all of a sudden is as pure as Rahsaan Patterson's voice or Don Cheadle's acting. We are defiant in times like these because even when we have advantages, the playing field is not level, not for us.
Mr. Jackson makes the case that being defiant in the support of a fellow Negro, who may well be completely wrong, is not a racist act. It can't be. And understand why.
It can't be a racist act because, regardless of the right or wrong, odds are that the Negro is not being treated fairly. And that is the racist act! Supporting the wrongly treated Negro by defiantly standing up for him despite his guilt or own wrong actions is fighting racism.
Supporting Bonds. Supporting Michael Vick. Neither is a commentary on whether what they did is wrong or right. Because it doesn't matter. The defiance is about creating equality.
So, when you read about someone supporting Vick or praising Bonds, realize that dog fighting or steroids aren't a part of the equation. Understand, that the defiant support in the face of the accusations is about fairness. It is about achieving equal treatment. Accept that the suggestion that one is supporting either man simply because he is a Negro is the racist act.
The defiant support with complete disregard for accountability of action or wrong doing is an attempt to bring America together. It is an effort to demonstrate that skin color does not matter. That we all should be treated equally.
A young black man at a public library had on a Michael Vick jersey one day last week. I walked up to him, thinking about my Bonds jersey. Said, "You big for wearing that." He simply said, "Thanks." Then, almost as an afterthought, he said, "I think he's guilty as hell, but I still got his back."
We too had something in common. As we should.
As we all should.
Have his back.
Regardless of his skin color.
Regardless of right or wrong.
It's not what you do, it's how you are treated after you do it.
We defy you to suggest otherwise.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Barry Bonds: Where Is He Celebrating HR Record?
As Barry Bonds' inevitable assumption of the home run throne approaches, we wonder:
What will Bonds do to celebrate? Who will Bonds look to to share his joy? Which people will Bonds trust to genuinely share in the unmitigated pride and unabashed glory of his accomplishment?
The entire chase has been surreal. From the moment that Bonds was within a reasonable distance to fear that he would take the crown, the pressure and non-stop media crucifixion began.
Somehow, despite the evidence, admissions and failed tests of others; Bonds has been the poster boy of steroids. Bonds has been the one continually called a cheater. Bonds has been the one that has drawn the ire of every supposed guardian of the game of baseball.
At the same time, dozen of players have failed tests. Jason Giambi has all but confessed to using PED's.
But Bonds takes the brunt of the press corps led malfeasance and takes the verbal assaults launched by the talking heads on TV an Radio.
With all that hatred, it is no wonder that, instead of saying "I'm going to Disney World"...Bonds is saying:
After the record is broken and the spotlight has faded, Bonds revealed where he wants to celebrate — Africa. He complained that he had never taken a vacation because he was always hard at work. But sometime soon, he should have an extended break.
It is a wonderful statement and a wholly sad sentiment, at once.
Certainly, Bonds desire to return to the land of the original baseball player is understandable. Returning to the Mother Continent is something all athletes should consider doing after a notable achievement.
But, the sad reality is that his desire to return is probably prompted by the hatred, jealousy and down right ill will with which the white media has covered this glorious chase of immortality.
We believe Africa is the land in which Bonds belongs.
The time has manifested itself.
Take the home run record to the continent on which it belongs.
Hit 756, Barry. Run the bases. Run straight out through the dugout, through the clubhouse to your limo. Head to the airport. And get on a plane.
It's the fitting ending for this chase the media has so viciously tainted.
What will Bonds do to celebrate? Who will Bonds look to to share his joy? Which people will Bonds trust to genuinely share in the unmitigated pride and unabashed glory of his accomplishment?
The entire chase has been surreal. From the moment that Bonds was within a reasonable distance to fear that he would take the crown, the pressure and non-stop media crucifixion began.
Somehow, despite the evidence, admissions and failed tests of others; Bonds has been the poster boy of steroids. Bonds has been the one continually called a cheater. Bonds has been the one that has drawn the ire of every supposed guardian of the game of baseball.
At the same time, dozen of players have failed tests. Jason Giambi has all but confessed to using PED's.
But Bonds takes the brunt of the press corps led malfeasance and takes the verbal assaults launched by the talking heads on TV an Radio.
With all that hatred, it is no wonder that, instead of saying "I'm going to Disney World"...Bonds is saying:
After the record is broken and the spotlight has faded, Bonds revealed where he wants to celebrate — Africa. He complained that he had never taken a vacation because he was always hard at work. But sometime soon, he should have an extended break.
It is a wonderful statement and a wholly sad sentiment, at once.
Certainly, Bonds desire to return to the land of the original baseball player is understandable. Returning to the Mother Continent is something all athletes should consider doing after a notable achievement.
But, the sad reality is that his desire to return is probably prompted by the hatred, jealousy and down right ill will with which the white media has covered this glorious chase of immortality.
We believe Africa is the land in which Bonds belongs.
The time has manifested itself.
Take the home run record to the continent on which it belongs.
Hit 756, Barry. Run the bases. Run straight out through the dugout, through the clubhouse to your limo. Head to the airport. And get on a plane.
It's the fitting ending for this chase the media has so viciously tainted.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Barry Bonds: Finally Standing Up to Media
Barry Bonds has been the target of media hate and abuse for years now. Of course, the so far futile attempts to link him to steroid use have been the overwhelming favorite avenue to try to tear apart the reputation and legacy of Bonds.
Bonds' ability to deal with the day to day frustration of being the lavatorial receptacle for the media's collective verbal colon evacuation has thus far been admirable. He has done his best to lead a normal existence and be the epitome of professionalism in his sport.
But, a time comes when even the most reverent individuals say, enough is enough.
"You mean that little midget man who absolutely knows jack … about baseball, who never played the game before?" Bonds, speaking to a handful of reporters before Wednesday night's 2-1 win over Atlanta, said of Costas. "You can tell Bob Costas what I called him."
Bonds aggravation reach its apex after Costas interviewed convicted steroid supplier Patrick Arnold. The man who developed the undetectable steroid which was distributed for use to unknowing and unsuspecting athletes in the form of a lotion like substance called the "clear". Ostensibly represented by those administering the substance to the athletes as flax oil. Arnold all but accused Bonds of knowingly and willfully using steroids he developed.
One must remember that Arnold was sentenced to a minimal three month term for his proven involvement in the BALCO scandal. So, the notion that in return for such a light sentence Arnold would help the feds try to make their case against Bonds is certainly a fair assumption.
Of course, Bonds was able to effectively blow the notion of any involvement out of the water.
"I've never seen the man in my entire life," Bonds said of Arnold. "I've never heard of the man … never."
Why are the press and prosecutors not willing to just accept the facts?
The most heinous part of Costas little assault on Bonds:
He waited as long as he could. Right up until Bonds is at the brink of the record. This was a concerted and carefully schedule offensive maneuver designed to interfere with and deliver a forceful negative blow to Bonds impending assumption of the home run kingship.
Such behavior by Costas is a demonstration that he is completely nonobjective, biased and hell bent on personally being involved in the fall of Barry Bonds.
The timing of his interview was unfair and was a complete misuse of the platform that Costas has been provided. Fairness and journalism without agenda obviously have no meaning to Costas.
We applaud Bonds for standing up to this Napoleonic bully.
Costas' motives are transparent. He wraps himself in some sort of cover, promoting the false pretense that he is a guardian of the integrity of the game.
Bonds sees through it. The "midget" remark makes it all clear.
Costas' is just envious of the Adonis like body Bonds has built through scientific nutrition and cutting edge training.
This is simply a case of a little man's self-loathing.
It's a shame that it has ruined objective journalism.
Bonds' ability to deal with the day to day frustration of being the lavatorial receptacle for the media's collective verbal colon evacuation has thus far been admirable. He has done his best to lead a normal existence and be the epitome of professionalism in his sport.
But, a time comes when even the most reverent individuals say, enough is enough.
"You mean that little midget man who absolutely knows jack … about baseball, who never played the game before?" Bonds, speaking to a handful of reporters before Wednesday night's 2-1 win over Atlanta, said of Costas. "You can tell Bob Costas what I called him."
Bonds aggravation reach its apex after Costas interviewed convicted steroid supplier Patrick Arnold. The man who developed the undetectable steroid which was distributed for use to unknowing and unsuspecting athletes in the form of a lotion like substance called the "clear". Ostensibly represented by those administering the substance to the athletes as flax oil. Arnold all but accused Bonds of knowingly and willfully using steroids he developed.
One must remember that Arnold was sentenced to a minimal three month term for his proven involvement in the BALCO scandal. So, the notion that in return for such a light sentence Arnold would help the feds try to make their case against Bonds is certainly a fair assumption.
Of course, Bonds was able to effectively blow the notion of any involvement out of the water.
"I've never seen the man in my entire life," Bonds said of Arnold. "I've never heard of the man … never."
Why are the press and prosecutors not willing to just accept the facts?
The most heinous part of Costas little assault on Bonds:
He waited as long as he could. Right up until Bonds is at the brink of the record. This was a concerted and carefully schedule offensive maneuver designed to interfere with and deliver a forceful negative blow to Bonds impending assumption of the home run kingship.
Such behavior by Costas is a demonstration that he is completely nonobjective, biased and hell bent on personally being involved in the fall of Barry Bonds.
The timing of his interview was unfair and was a complete misuse of the platform that Costas has been provided. Fairness and journalism without agenda obviously have no meaning to Costas.
We applaud Bonds for standing up to this Napoleonic bully.
Costas' motives are transparent. He wraps himself in some sort of cover, promoting the false pretense that he is a guardian of the integrity of the game.
Bonds sees through it. The "midget" remark makes it all clear.
Costas' is just envious of the Adonis like body Bonds has built through scientific nutrition and cutting edge training.
This is simply a case of a little man's self-loathing.
It's a shame that it has ruined objective journalism.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Bill Romanowski: Launches Supplement Line
Bill Romanowski is launching a line of performance supplements.
Wonderful, just what we need, more untested, unproven and unregulated supplements for GNC to offer on their already crowded shelves.
Not overly interesting or news worthy.
But one line in the story is very interesting.
Romo shares some very similar experiences with Barry Bonds. Both were connected to intimately to BALCO. Both were accused of using "The Clear", which later turned out to be a steroid called THG. Oh, and of course Romo tested positive for THG. Barry never did.
So, both share accusations of connection, but only Romo has had a positive test.
Barry has been demonized and flat out convicted by the media in relation to these accusations.
This is how the media characterizes Romo:
Romanowski, who played for the 49ers, Eagles, Broncos, and Raiders, retired at the end of that season, and set out to reverse the effects of years of violent collisions. He had strengthened his body throughout his NFL career with supplements -- including THG and ephedrine -- that sometimes straddled the line of legality, and Romanowski hoped he could build up his mind as well.
So, the guy that has been insinuated in the BALCO investigation is forever tainted and convicted by the media. The guy that tested positive is characterized by the media as having "straddled the line of legality".
Guess the media just can't help but support and spin positive for a guy that so enjoys spitting in the faces of Negro players.
Wonderful, just what we need, more untested, unproven and unregulated supplements for GNC to offer on their already crowded shelves.
Not overly interesting or news worthy.
But one line in the story is very interesting.
Romo shares some very similar experiences with Barry Bonds. Both were connected to intimately to BALCO. Both were accused of using "The Clear", which later turned out to be a steroid called THG. Oh, and of course Romo tested positive for THG. Barry never did.
So, both share accusations of connection, but only Romo has had a positive test.
Barry has been demonized and flat out convicted by the media in relation to these accusations.
This is how the media characterizes Romo:
Romanowski, who played for the 49ers, Eagles, Broncos, and Raiders, retired at the end of that season, and set out to reverse the effects of years of violent collisions. He had strengthened his body throughout his NFL career with supplements -- including THG and ephedrine -- that sometimes straddled the line of legality, and Romanowski hoped he could build up his mind as well.
So, the guy that has been insinuated in the BALCO investigation is forever tainted and convicted by the media. The guy that tested positive is characterized by the media as having "straddled the line of legality".
Guess the media just can't help but support and spin positive for a guy that so enjoys spitting in the faces of Negro players.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Baseball's Biggest Issue
Without compare, the most talked about issue in baseball this season is the diminishing number of Negroes in the big leagues. You can't read a sports page without some mention or question of why.
The Atlanta Braves have even reorganized their executive hierarchy in an effort to find the root cause and implement preventive measures to correct the problems they find within their own organization.
Recognized as the leading voice of knowledge and respected for our common sense approach to teaching about this topic, we feel more than comfortable in shedding righteousness on this issue and pointing the clamoring masses to the real answers.
The Negro athlete long ago took over the NBA. The Negro athlete long ago took over the NFL. These are sports that require an athleticism that is superior to the requirements of baseball. To excel on the court or the gridiron, one must possess a unique power and explosiveness. Baseball players don't normally require these same attributes. Now, certainly some players DO possess them, but one can not intelligently argue that the athleticism necessary on the diamond is in anyway comparable to that required in the NBA or NFL.
Accepting this fact, it becomes clear: The white athlete hoping to make it in a major sport can really only pin his hopes on baseball.
Ten years ago, baseball went through a renaissance. The summer time duel between Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire reinvigorated the game. It put baseball back squarely on the map. It created heroes and rekindled the romance between America and its past time.
A few years later, Barry Bonds attacked the home run record that McGwire set.
And the death knell of the Negro ballplayer was sounded.
Barry is inarguably the greatest player to step onto the field. His abilities can not be challenged. Forget color. Forget race. Barry transcended all that and should have been allowed to take baseball to a higher plane. He should have been allowed to provide the spark to ignite the fire in young Negroes to pick up a glove and be the next Barry. Just like Mike did for basketball. Or TO has done for football.
But, if that had happened, we'd be watching nothing but dark Latino faces and darker Negro faces on Baseball Tonight. And the white athlete would have been pushed to the fringes of all three major sports.
So, instead of Barry being deified and leading the next wave of Negro ballplayers. He was demonized. And his figurative crucifixion ended up essentially turning an entire generation of Negro athletes off to baseball.
It's certainly not surprising. Youths watched Sosa and McGwire treated as heroes. Everyday on the news. Presented as upstanding and wonderful people. Embraced by the nation as they measured homer run after home run.
Then, when it was Barry's turn to chase history, his personality was presented as difficult. His image was painted with a dirty brush and unclean strokes, not the clear and crisp strokes used to artfully present McGwire or Sosa.
During McGwire's run, when the question of steroids came up, it was deflected with talk of androstene and poo pooed to the side. Barry, on the other hand was put under the scope and his body was seemingly measured from every angle and compared with a skinny, young Barry from years and years ago to insinuate heavy PED usage.
Barry cheerfully reminded us that he didn't start lifting weights and hadn't instituted a nutritional program until he was in his 30's. For most players, such an explanation would have cleared the air and led to a fun season. But, Barry being who and what he was, it led to an inquisition.
Certainly, the mainstream media's relentless pursuit of steroid allegations against Barry (despite his NEVER testing positive) demonstrates the lengths to which white America is willing to go to ensure that MLB holds a majority of roster spots for white players.
The message is clear to Negro athletes: Play baseball at your own peril. Rise to the top of the game, and you will be attacked in the media, in the courts and even on the field.
And, we are clearly seeing the message hit home. Negroes have received the message loud and clear and are steering clear of the game. If the media, baseball and the government can cause such destruction in the life of the greatest player of all time, imagine what they can do to an up an comer with no name brand recognition?
Baseball, insidiously and gleefully, has tried to blame the Negro community for having a "lack of interest" in the sport. And in turn, have tried to claim this so called "lack of interest" as the reason for the dwindling number of Negroes in the game.
In all honestly, it's a brilliant redirection of the issue. And now, in an effort to "bury the body", so to speak, baseball is pretending to try to address the problem by encouraging teams to do what the Braves have done.
If baseball really wanted to correct the "problem" of a "lack of interest" by Negroes, the solution is simple.
Celebrate Barry Bonds. Put him on the pedestal that baseball puts its other greats. That would send the message to young Negroes that, if they come into the game, they don't have to live in fear of being destroyed. That if they decide to focus their efforts and energy on the sport of baseball and they excel, they will be loved and glorified.
There is no "lack of interest" in baseball on the part of Negroes.
There is simply fear.
Fear of being destroyed for being too good.
Just like Barry.
The Atlanta Braves have even reorganized their executive hierarchy in an effort to find the root cause and implement preventive measures to correct the problems they find within their own organization.
Recognized as the leading voice of knowledge and respected for our common sense approach to teaching about this topic, we feel more than comfortable in shedding righteousness on this issue and pointing the clamoring masses to the real answers.
The Negro athlete long ago took over the NBA. The Negro athlete long ago took over the NFL. These are sports that require an athleticism that is superior to the requirements of baseball. To excel on the court or the gridiron, one must possess a unique power and explosiveness. Baseball players don't normally require these same attributes. Now, certainly some players DO possess them, but one can not intelligently argue that the athleticism necessary on the diamond is in anyway comparable to that required in the NBA or NFL.
Accepting this fact, it becomes clear: The white athlete hoping to make it in a major sport can really only pin his hopes on baseball.
Ten years ago, baseball went through a renaissance. The summer time duel between Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire reinvigorated the game. It put baseball back squarely on the map. It created heroes and rekindled the romance between America and its past time.
A few years later, Barry Bonds attacked the home run record that McGwire set.
And the death knell of the Negro ballplayer was sounded.
Barry is inarguably the greatest player to step onto the field. His abilities can not be challenged. Forget color. Forget race. Barry transcended all that and should have been allowed to take baseball to a higher plane. He should have been allowed to provide the spark to ignite the fire in young Negroes to pick up a glove and be the next Barry. Just like Mike did for basketball. Or TO has done for football.
But, if that had happened, we'd be watching nothing but dark Latino faces and darker Negro faces on Baseball Tonight. And the white athlete would have been pushed to the fringes of all three major sports.
So, instead of Barry being deified and leading the next wave of Negro ballplayers. He was demonized. And his figurative crucifixion ended up essentially turning an entire generation of Negro athletes off to baseball.
It's certainly not surprising. Youths watched Sosa and McGwire treated as heroes. Everyday on the news. Presented as upstanding and wonderful people. Embraced by the nation as they measured homer run after home run.
Then, when it was Barry's turn to chase history, his personality was presented as difficult. His image was painted with a dirty brush and unclean strokes, not the clear and crisp strokes used to artfully present McGwire or Sosa.
During McGwire's run, when the question of steroids came up, it was deflected with talk of androstene and poo pooed to the side. Barry, on the other hand was put under the scope and his body was seemingly measured from every angle and compared with a skinny, young Barry from years and years ago to insinuate heavy PED usage.
Barry cheerfully reminded us that he didn't start lifting weights and hadn't instituted a nutritional program until he was in his 30's. For most players, such an explanation would have cleared the air and led to a fun season. But, Barry being who and what he was, it led to an inquisition.
Certainly, the mainstream media's relentless pursuit of steroid allegations against Barry (despite his NEVER testing positive) demonstrates the lengths to which white America is willing to go to ensure that MLB holds a majority of roster spots for white players.
The message is clear to Negro athletes: Play baseball at your own peril. Rise to the top of the game, and you will be attacked in the media, in the courts and even on the field.
And, we are clearly seeing the message hit home. Negroes have received the message loud and clear and are steering clear of the game. If the media, baseball and the government can cause such destruction in the life of the greatest player of all time, imagine what they can do to an up an comer with no name brand recognition?
Baseball, insidiously and gleefully, has tried to blame the Negro community for having a "lack of interest" in the sport. And in turn, have tried to claim this so called "lack of interest" as the reason for the dwindling number of Negroes in the game.
In all honestly, it's a brilliant redirection of the issue. And now, in an effort to "bury the body", so to speak, baseball is pretending to try to address the problem by encouraging teams to do what the Braves have done.
If baseball really wanted to correct the "problem" of a "lack of interest" by Negroes, the solution is simple.
Celebrate Barry Bonds. Put him on the pedestal that baseball puts its other greats. That would send the message to young Negroes that, if they come into the game, they don't have to live in fear of being destroyed. That if they decide to focus their efforts and energy on the sport of baseball and they excel, they will be loved and glorified.
There is no "lack of interest" in baseball on the part of Negroes.
There is simply fear.
Fear of being destroyed for being too good.
Just like Barry.
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