By: Mason Roberson

Background  The 1994 player strike left baseball in a dark age  In 1998 the game experienced a sudden spark in popularity  Sosa and McGwire raced for home run dominance  Balls flew out of ballparks and baseball remained America’s past-time

Accusations  Ten years later accusations have arisen branding this time frame as baseball’s “steroid era”  Jose Canseco released a book titled, “Juiced”, in which he claims that steroids tainted the game.  George Mitchell released a report investigating the use of steroids in Major League Baseball

The Burning Question At this point in time, the topic of steroids had been brought to light. Public opinion decided that these athletes must be punished, however a new question has now arisen. Many of these “steroid era” players are now eligible for the Hall of Fame. Should these players be allowed induction into Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame?

Baseball’s Steroid Policy Previous PolicyNew Policy (2005) 1 st offense10 Game Suspension50 Game Suspension 2 nd offense30 Game Suspension100 Game Suspension 3 rd offense60 Game SuspensionLife-time Ban 4 th offense1 Year Suspension

Who is Using Steroids?  Typically not the stars of the league Fighting for professional lives Earning an income ○ John Rocker ○ Tom House ○ Benito Santiago ○ Mike Bell ○ Fernando Vina ○ Chad Allen

Role Models?

Are Records Legit? Runs Per Game: Home Runs Per Game: Golden AgeCanseco Era American League4.5 National League Golden AgeCanseco Era American League National League Baseball is a game of hand-eye coordination. Steroids increase muscle mass; they do not dramatically increase homerun production.

Guilty Until Proven Innocent  Everyone knew steroids was an issue within the MLB  Why did the league do so little about such a pressing issue?  Nonetheless, why are some athletes guilty until proven innocent? Dustin Pedroia, Albert Puljos, Derek Jeter

Conclusion  There are various reasons for allowing steroid users into the Hall of Fame Steroids do not create Hall of Famers The Steroid policy is not as effective as it should be, considering the notion that players should be banned for the offense. Players should be considered innocent until proven guilty.  All things considered, The Hall of Fame should not ban players accused and convicted of steroid use.

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