Well here we are. The next chapter on the way to “the moment of truth” began when Baseball Hall of Fame ballots were mailed this week. Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken, Jr., are no-brainer picks. But, the man who once told Congressman William Lacy Clay “I’m not here to talk about the past” during Congressional hearings on steroid use in baseball is on the ballot. That would be Mark McGwire. My question is: why are we here? The cloud that has been over McGuire’s head regarding steroid usage and his performance before Congress — not to mention his failure to discourage anyone else from using steroids — has made it difficult for him to gain support. While the Hall of Fame harbors individuals who had shaky pasts on and off the field, McGwire should be the poster boy of what should happen to this era’s group of alleged cheaters. This is not a court of law. Evidence comes second to public opinion. A no vote for McGuire. Too much baggage.
Mizzou is better
While I have questioned Missouri’s nonconference schedule, I wonder if Missouri is better now than last year? This one is simple… Yes. Reason? While Mizzou has played some “blood donors,” they have handled them with authority. That was not the case last year as there were some embarrassing home losses. This team looks like a team. They pass, they run and they even play defense. Mind you, many of these players were on the team last year so what is the difference? Try coaching for starters. I like the direction so far.
Blues giving me blues
When it comes to direction, I am concerned about the Blues. This has nothing to do with coaching. When the so-called “star players” don’t play like the money they are being paid demands, we have a problem. The front office gambled on bringing in free agents and bringing back players that the fans are familiar with. Good idea, bad results. Wanna see some “fat cats” who on some nights are going through the motions? Take in a Blues game and when the game is on the line see who doesn’t show up. Sad but true.
Notre Dame vs. USC
On the subject of rivals, interesting that the new football coach at Notre Dame Charlie Weiss and the former coach Tyrone Willingham have something in common… neither has been able to beat USC. Interesting, that was one of the reasons why Willingham was fired. Everyone will now turn to page two on excuses as to why Willingham was let go and Weiss should stay. We won’t even mention the 10-year contract extension after one season. OK, I guess we are all stupid. Hey, if they wanted Willingham out, they should just come clean and say it. Don’t insult our intelligence, especially when Willingham was doing something few coaches care about and that was graduating players.
