If the Baltimore Orioles played in Busch Stadium this season, malcontent reliever Steve Kline would receive an overwhelming standing ovation. All he did was give Tony La Russa “the finger.” He also repeatedly questioned management’s decisions on his use (or non-use) in the postseason.
He signed for more money in the American League and has struggled at times this season.
Edgar Renteria, an All-Star shortstop and respected member of the Cardinals during his time here, returned to St. Louis on Monday night. He too signed for more money elsewhere and has struggled.
When introduced for his first at-bat, he was greeted with more than a spattering of boos. In fact, he was laced with them by thousands of fans.
Other fans, fearing that St. Louis was risking its “best fans in baseball” title, suddenly arose and began cheering. It was not an ovation from the heart; it was one to save face for Cardinals’ fans.
Kline was openly defiant and wore out his welcome here. Renteria claims that the Boston Red Sox wanted him more than the Cardinals did. Kline would be cheered upon his return, Renteria was openly booed.
The only discernable difference between the two men is skin color. And they say Boston is the most racist city in America.
