Evolution Of The Policy Of Steroids In Baseball
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Other.
Evolution of Steroid Policies in Baseball
Overview
The issue of steroid use in baseball has been a topic of debate since the mid-1990s. However, Major League Baseball (MLB) did not establish an official policy until 2002. The push for new regulations gained momentum as reports of steroid use among players became increasingly public.
Background
In the 1990s, rumors circulated about widespread steroid use in baseball. Former players like David Wells estimated that "25 to 40 percent of all Major Leaguers are juiced," while Jose Canseco claimed in his book "Juiced" that up to 85% of players were using steroids. Canseco attributed his entire career to steroid use. Ken Caminiti, who won the 1996 NL MVP award, admitted to using steroids and later revealed health issues related to his use, including shrunken testicles and reduced testosterone levels.
The tragic death of Baltimore Orioles prospect Steve Bechler in 2003, linked to the use of Ephedra, intensified the conversation around drug use in the sport.
Initial Policy Implementation
Shocked by these revelations, players and team owners agreed to anonymous steroid testing in 2003. If more than 5% of results were positive, formal testing and penalties would be introduced in 2004. The tests showed 5% to 7% were positive, prompting the implementation of new policies.
The 2004 draft policy stated that each player would undergo at least one test per season. Consequences included treatment after the first positive test, a 15-day suspension for a second, and up to a year-long suspension after a fifth positive test.
Tom House, a former major league pitcher, admitted to steroid use and noted that steroids were already prevalent in the late 1960s.
Revised Policy in 2005
In 2005, the policy strengthened with mandatory unannounced tests during the season and random offseason testing. Banned substances were expanded to include steroids, precursors, designer steroids, masking agents, and diuretics. Penalties became stricter: a 10-day suspension for the first positive result, 30 days for the second, 60 for the third, and a year after the fourth?"all without pay.
The BALCO Scandal
The BALCO scandal in 2005 revealed that the BALCO nutrition center had distributed steroids to several star players, including Barry Bonds. High-profile players such as Rafael Palmeiro, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Jose Canseco, and Curt Schilling were summoned by Congress to testify. Following the scandal, players like Ryan Franklin faced suspensions, some as short as ten days, but the incident called for tougher penalties.
Conclusion
The evolution of steroid policies in baseball reflects the sport's ongoing battle with performance-enhancing drugs. These regulations continue to evolve as MLB strives to preserve the integrity of the game and protect its players’ health.
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